| Quick Facts: Dietitians and Nutritionists | |
|---|---|
| 2012 Median Pay | $55,240 per year $26.56 per hour |
| Entry-Level Education | Bachelor’s degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | Internship/residency |
| Number of Jobs, 2012 | 67,400 |
| Job Outlook, 2012-22 | 21% (Faster than average) |
| Employment Change, 2012-22 | 14,200 |
What Dietitians and Nutritionists Do
Dietitians and nutritionists are experts in food and nutrition. They advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal.
Work Environment
Dietitians and nutritionists work in many settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, cafeterias, and clinics. Some are self-employed and have their own practices.
How to Become a Dietitian or Nutritionist
Most dietitians and nutritionists have a bachelor’s degree and have participated in supervised training through an internship or as part of their coursework. Many states require dietitians and nutritionists to be licensed.
Pay
The median annual wage for dietitians and nutritionists was $55,240 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. The role of food in preventing and treating illnesses, such as diabetes, is now well known. More dietitians and nutritionists will be needed to provide care for patients with various medical conditions and to advise people who want to improve their overall health.
