The knowledge gained from a major in Dietetics of food and nutritional science and therapeutic nutrition, with the inclusion of American Dietetic Association internship planning, prepares students to pursue careers as registered dieticians. Dieticians may work as educators, counselors, therapists, program coordinators, or communications specialists in health care, food service, education, research, fitness, or social services. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in clinical nutrition, public health, food science, nutritional biochemistry, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, or veterinary medicine.
Potential Career Areas:
- Counseling
- Education
- Writing
- Advising
- Research
- Communications
- Food Service
- Outreach
Sample Employers:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Schools
- Health and wellness resorts
- Gyms
- Health departments
- WIC programs
- Extension offices
- Food service companies
- Food banks
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Registered Dietician
|
$33,300 - $53,200
|
|
Hospital Clinical Dietician
|
$35,000 - $60,000
|
|
Retirement Residence Dietician
|
$26,000 - $70,000
|
|
Food Service Company Dietician
|
$40,000 - $80,000
|
|
Diet and Fitness Writer
|
$28,020 - $53,070
|
|
School Nutritionist
|
$25,500 - $42,000
|
|
University Nutrition Counselor
|
$30,000 - $55,000
|
|
Resort Nutritionist
|
$30,000 - $60,000
|
|
Military Dietician
|
$27,500 - $53,370
|
|
Extension Agent
|
$22,000 - $68,000
|
|
Wellness Coordinator
|
$42,000 - $75,700
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).