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Registered Dietician

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The occupation of a Registered Dietician (RD) can often be mistaken by the occupation of a Nutritionist. Many individuals tend to disregard the fact that both career titles involve particular education procedures, distinct credentials and licensing requirements, different salaries, and unique work environments. The first main difference of an RD and Nutritionist is the schooling involved for both. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “Registered dietitians are required to complete a formal education program that results in at least a baccalaureate degree. This program must be approved by the Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and include a practical component performed in a career-related …show more content…

Additionally, a masters or doctorate degree is optional for a Nutritionist depending on whether or not he or she plans to teach at an institution or practice research. (Jones & Ricketts, 2016). The credentials and licensing for an RD differs depending on which state one chooses to practice in. After one completes a minimum of a bachelor’s degree he or she must complete an ACEND accredited program which can last six to twelve months, following that he or she must take and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam, and lastly once a person becomes licensed he or she must maintain that status by continuing professional education during a specific licensing period that can vary by state, as reported by EatRightPro.org. (What is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, 2016). As for a Nutritionist, the credentials and licensing can be different. According to Learntobecome.org, “Licensure and certification requirements …show more content…

Having said that, the tenth percentile of Nutritionists make about $34,000 yearly, whereas the ninetieth percentile make about $78,000. (Education Difference between Dietitians and Nutritionists, 2015). The employment opportunities for an RD are endless, Eatrightpro reports the many options where RD’s can work, the first being in Hospitals where they educate patients about nutrition and administering medical nutrition therapy as part of the health-care team. Secondly, RD’s can work in sports nutrition and corporate wellness programs, here they inform clients about the connection between food, fitness and health. Next, many RD’s can work in Food and nutrition-related business and industries, in this setting one will work in communications, consumer affairs, public relations, marketing, or consulting with chefs in restaurants and culinary schools. RD’s also work in Universities and medical centers, where they teach physician’s assistants, nurses, students, and others the science of foods and nutrition. Finally, RD’s can work in Private practices here they work under contract with healthcare or food companies, or often in their own business. (What is a Registered Dietitian

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