Nutrition and Sports Medicine Schools and Programs

The right college degree is your key to entering the exciting health care field as a nutritional scientist or dietitian.

How to Become a Nutritional Scientist

Nutritionists, also known as nutritional scientists or dietitians, plan nutritional programs, recommend dietary modifications, supervise and oversee meal preparation, and provide education in healthy eating habits and dietary adjustments to enhance the prevention and treatment of disease and bodily malfunctions. These professionals play an important role in the treatment of patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and physicians' offices.

Responsibilities of Nutritional Scientists

Many nutritional scientists are directly or indirectly involved in assessing the nutritional needs of hospital and institutional patients. Dietary programs are designed to facilitate healing and well-being, and in many cases follow-up evaluations and recommendations are made. Nutritionists work in cooperation with other health care professionals and physicians to provide a multi-disciplinary approach to health and healing. Nutritionists work as community resources in medical clinics, home health care services, and government agencies. Some work as consultants in private practice, with clients such as smaller hospitals, private physicians, specialized clinics, and individuals.

Educational Requirements and Career Prospects for Nutritional Scientists

A bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement in nutritional science, though many nutritionists earn a master's degree for career advancement. Degrees are usually earned in the areas of food service management, dietetics, and nutrition. Certification, licensure, and registration requirements vary from state to state. Continuing education credits sometimes are required. Job prospects are good. The public's increasing interest in diet and how dietary intervention affects health is creating a growing demand for new candidates in the field of nutritional science.

Nutritionist Salary Expectations

Nutritionists may work either on a full-time or a part-time basis. Most nutritionists earn from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on the size of facility or institution, and the position's level of responsibility.