Have you heard the phrase “food is medicine?” Students interested in studying nutrition or dietetics will be prepared to extend life through both clinical practice and nutrition education.
Dietetics in particular is a highly competitive field. It’s a blend of the natural and applied sciences, behavioral science and management. Keep reading for answers to the question: Should I study nutrition or dietetics?
What kind of classes will I take?
Expect to take a combination of health, science and food related courses. Courses may include Food Science, Fundamentals of Nutrition, or Public Health Nutrition. You will also take classes such as Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, and Psychology to name a few. If you are studying dietetics, your classes will be rigorous to ensure you are accepted into a graduate program. These classes will later help you pass the RDN examination and licensure requirements.
Interested in careers in health and fitness? Check out this blog to determine which choice is right for you!
Will I need additional education or credentials?
Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, students must have a master’s degree and at least 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning to take the credentialing examination to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). In Ohio, a registered dietitian must also be a licensed dietitian. Licensure requirements for each state can be found through the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
What careers are available?
Students who have a dietetics or nutrition related major have a broad spectrum of food, nutrition and dietetics career opportunities and settings. Common locations include acute and long-term care facilities, dialysis units, telehealth, schools, federal agencies and universities. Opportunities may also be available in research and development, food and pharmaceutical companies, corporate wellness and private practice.
At Bluffton University…
Bluffton University’s nationally accredited nutrition and dietetics 4+1 (bachelor’s and master’s) program prepares students to extend life through both clinical practice and nutrition education. With faculty who care about developing students into professionals, our graduates have the confidence and skills to succeed in life. In fact, Bluffton’s pass rate on the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam is well above the national average. Schedule a visit today to explore all that Bluffton has to offer!
Written by Tricia Bell, content manager