Dietetics and Nutrition
Nutritionist
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| Career data updated last on 8/13/2009 |
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Nutritionists focus on the promotion of health and the prevention of disease among groups and communities through good food habits. Heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, low infant birth weight and other problems are linked to diet, and nutritionists carry out research and educational programs to help individuals, groups and entire communities reduce their health risks through nutrition programs. Nutritionists work to fight malnutrition in the United States and in other countries. Most nutritionists are also registered dietitians (RDs) with advanced education and/or experience, although they are not required to be registered by the American Dietetic Association.
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| Salary |
$36,000-$40,000-$45,000
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| Significant Points |
Salaries increase with years of experience and many nutritionists who are RDs, particularly those in management, business and consulting, earn incomes above $50,000.
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| Specializations |
Nutritionists can specialize in specific aspects of food and nutrition, such as legislative policy making. A major area of specialization is public health nutrition.
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| Work Environment |
Nutritionists work for international, federal, state and local health agencies (such as public health departments), educational settings, sports programs and food/health-related industries. Health departments in Colorado employ public health nutritionists at several levels where they provide nutrition counseling and administer numerous nutrition programs for their communities.
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| High School Prep |
General college preparation is recommended: three courses in math including algebra I, algebra II and geometry, or a higher level math course for which algebra II is a prerequisite; three science courses including one biological science, one physical science and one lab course; four English units and two social studies units, including one in U.S. History; and two years of a second language.
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| Academic Requirements |
Nutritionists should have a masters degree from an accredited program. In some states, including Colorado, entry level positions are available which require only a baccalaureate degree. In addition to RD credentialing, many states have regulatory laws for dietitians and nutrition practitioners. Frequently these state requirements are met through the same education and training required to become an RD.
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Colorado schools that offer degrees
and/or training
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Professional associations that support this field
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