What is a Dietitian?
A dietitian is an expert in food and nutrition. Dietitians help promote good health through proper eating. They might also participate in research and provide guidance on good nutritional habits.
Registered Dietitians
To become a practicing Registered Dietitian, or RD, one must complete a 4-year degree in nutrition and dietetics through an accredited university, and an additional 6- to 12-month internship that includes rotations in clinical nutrition, food service, community health, and other areas of specialty. An RD must also pass a national registry exam. An RD may further attain a graduate degree and specialize in a specific area of dietetics, such as clinical, complementary or alternative, and sports nutrition.
Dietetic Technicians
A Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) must complete at least a 2-year associate’s degree at an accredited college or university. The coursework for DTRs includes a variety of classes in food and nutrition sciences, food service systems management, and a range of general science courses. In addition, a DTR must complete 450 hours of supervised practice experience in various community programs, healthcare, and foodservice facilities. A DTR must also pass a national registry exam. DTRs work independently or in teams with RDs in a variety of employment settings, including healthcare, business and industry, pubic health, foodservice, and research.