4 answers
Girls
Student
Canada Bay, New South Wales, Australia
15
Questions
Asked
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I’ve been curious about becoming a dietitian. What qualifications or certifications are necessary for someone to start a career in nutrition, and are there any specific areas within the field that are in higher demand ?
Any advice, tips and insights please. Thanks.
4 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1326
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Oh hey there future dietitian! 🌟
So you're thinking about becoming a dietitian? That's honestly such a cool career — like being a food superhero who helps people live healthier, happier lives through what they eat. If you've ever thought, "Wow, food is kinda magical," you're already halfway there.
Okay, here's how the whole journey works — think of it like making a recipe from scratch.
Step one: You'll need to cook up a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics. That's your base ingredient. It's where you'll learn all the behind-the-scenes stuff — like how food gives us energy, how the body breaks it down, and how different diets affect different people. It's a mix of science, food, and a little psychology all rolled into one.
Step two: Once you've got your degree, it's time for the dietetic internship — kinda like your cooking show debut. This part is super hands-on, working in hospitals, community centers, or even food companies. You'll be helping real people figure out what to eat to get healthier — whether they're battling diabetes, recovering from surgery, or just trying to eat better. It's tough, but you'll come out with some serious skills.
Step three: After the internship, there's the big exam — like the final boss level in a video game. If you pass, you'll officially be a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) — depending on where you live. Some places also need you to grab a license to practice.
Now here's where it gets exciting — this career is like a giant buffet with so many options. You could help athletes fuel up for their next big game (sports nutrition), help kids and families eat better (pediatric nutrition), guide patients through recovery in hospitals (clinical dietitian), or even start your own business teaching people how to eat better through social media or private coaching.
But real talk — it's not all Instagram salads and smoothie bowls. Dietitians work hard. You’ll need to be super patient and good at explaining tricky science stuff in simple, friendly ways. It's not just telling people what to eat — it's helping them change their whole relationship with food.
If you're serious about this, the best place to start right now is by volunteering in hospitals, health clinics, or even your school cafeteria. Follow dietitians online, read about different diets, and maybe even start your own little food blog or TikTok sharing what you're learning.
Ohhh, if you're still in high school, which I think you might be and know that you're in the perfect spot to get a head start on this whole dietitian dream! 💪🥑
Right now, it's all about building your little nutrition empire from the ground up — no degree needed yet, just pure passion and curiosity.
One last thing, remember, Dietitians don't just love food — they love helping people. So if you're the friend who's always hyping others up to take care of themselves, you're already there and on the right kick start! All the best and good luck! 😉😇
get cozy with science. Biology and chemistry might sound a little... ugh... but they're basically the secret ingredients behind how food fuels the body. If your school offers any health or nutrition classes — grab those like free snacks at a buffet.
start volunteering wherever you can. Maybe there's a hospital, community kitchen, or local health clinic nearby that could use an extra set of hands. Even helping out at food banks or school health clubs shows you're serious about food and helping others.
stalk some dietitians online (in a totally legal way, of course 😉). TikTok, Instagram, YouTube — there are so many dietitians out there breaking down nutrition in fun, bite-sized videos. See how they talk to people, what advice they give, and how they mix science with a little personality.
start your own little nutrition project. It could be something simple like a food blog, a TikTok page sharing healthy snack ideas, or even helping your friends make better lunch choices. The best dietitians know how to make healthy food sound fun and not... broccoli-boring.
So you're thinking about becoming a dietitian? That's honestly such a cool career — like being a food superhero who helps people live healthier, happier lives through what they eat. If you've ever thought, "Wow, food is kinda magical," you're already halfway there.
Okay, here's how the whole journey works — think of it like making a recipe from scratch.
Step one: You'll need to cook up a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics. That's your base ingredient. It's where you'll learn all the behind-the-scenes stuff — like how food gives us energy, how the body breaks it down, and how different diets affect different people. It's a mix of science, food, and a little psychology all rolled into one.
Step two: Once you've got your degree, it's time for the dietetic internship — kinda like your cooking show debut. This part is super hands-on, working in hospitals, community centers, or even food companies. You'll be helping real people figure out what to eat to get healthier — whether they're battling diabetes, recovering from surgery, or just trying to eat better. It's tough, but you'll come out with some serious skills.
Step three: After the internship, there's the big exam — like the final boss level in a video game. If you pass, you'll officially be a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) — depending on where you live. Some places also need you to grab a license to practice.
Now here's where it gets exciting — this career is like a giant buffet with so many options. You could help athletes fuel up for their next big game (sports nutrition), help kids and families eat better (pediatric nutrition), guide patients through recovery in hospitals (clinical dietitian), or even start your own business teaching people how to eat better through social media or private coaching.
But real talk — it's not all Instagram salads and smoothie bowls. Dietitians work hard. You’ll need to be super patient and good at explaining tricky science stuff in simple, friendly ways. It's not just telling people what to eat — it's helping them change their whole relationship with food.
If you're serious about this, the best place to start right now is by volunteering in hospitals, health clinics, or even your school cafeteria. Follow dietitians online, read about different diets, and maybe even start your own little food blog or TikTok sharing what you're learning.
Ohhh, if you're still in high school, which I think you might be and know that you're in the perfect spot to get a head start on this whole dietitian dream! 💪🥑
Right now, it's all about building your little nutrition empire from the ground up — no degree needed yet, just pure passion and curiosity.
One last thing, remember, Dietitians don't just love food — they love helping people. So if you're the friend who's always hyping others up to take care of themselves, you're already there and on the right kick start! All the best and good luck! 😉😇
Dr recommends the following next steps:
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Girls
Thanks a ton for the support—it means the world. This community is filled with some of the kindest, wisest, and most inspiring mentors, and I’m just grateful to be part of it. Y’all keep making CareerVillage the best place for students (and fellow mentors) to grow!
Remember: A rising tide lifts all ships… and here, we’re basically a whole fleet of wisdom sailors!
Dr H
Thank you Isida.
Dr H
I appreciate your down-to-earth advice and the way you make a challenging path seem like an adventure. Cheers
Girls
Alexandra Grossano
Dietetic Technician Registered
6
Answers
Scottsdale, Arizona
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hello! I have been working on becoming an RDN for about 10 years now, here is my advice:
As others have mentioned:
Step 1: Bachelor's degree in nutrition (dietetics) DPD program. I graduated from ASU with a bachelor's in nutrition (Dietetics) in 2019. After completing your BS you are eligible to sit for the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) exam. I did this and passed (on my 2nd try) and have been working in the nutrition field for 5 years as a NDTR. I have gained valuable hands-on experience. (highly recommend)
Step 2: Master's degree in nutrition (could also specialize) I did my master's in nutrition with a sports emphasis as I was working for the NFL at the time I completed my masters. I did a fully online MS program through Lamar University (it only took me 1 year to complete and I was working 80+ hours a week while working on MS).
Step 3: Dietetic Internship (DI) (could be looped in with your BS/MS program). Keep in mind this is typically requires a tuition fee ($10,000+) to work for free full time for 6-12 months (depending on your program). Dietetic Internships are NOT ELIGIBLE FOR STUDENT LOANS (unless attached to MS/BS program).
Step 4: pass RDN exam
Keep in mind you must take Biochemistry AND organic chemistry to get your BS degree. These classes weed out the weak from the strong so be prepared (most of us barely pass with a C).
The dietetic internship is really tough to get through if you are supporting yourself, please keep this in mind when choosing degree programs. If you can get a BS/MS/DI program all looped together, you’ll be golden.
I have a ton of knowledge in this realm, if you have any other specific questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, personally.
I have worked in:
Community Nutrition (WIC program)
Sports Nutrition (Arizona Cardinals Football Club/NFL)
Clinical Nutrition (Mayo Clinic Hospital/Plaza Healthcare- Skilled Nursing Facility "SNF")
As others have mentioned:
Step 1: Bachelor's degree in nutrition (dietetics) DPD program. I graduated from ASU with a bachelor's in nutrition (Dietetics) in 2019. After completing your BS you are eligible to sit for the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) exam. I did this and passed (on my 2nd try) and have been working in the nutrition field for 5 years as a NDTR. I have gained valuable hands-on experience. (highly recommend)
Step 2: Master's degree in nutrition (could also specialize) I did my master's in nutrition with a sports emphasis as I was working for the NFL at the time I completed my masters. I did a fully online MS program through Lamar University (it only took me 1 year to complete and I was working 80+ hours a week while working on MS).
Step 3: Dietetic Internship (DI) (could be looped in with your BS/MS program). Keep in mind this is typically requires a tuition fee ($10,000+) to work for free full time for 6-12 months (depending on your program). Dietetic Internships are NOT ELIGIBLE FOR STUDENT LOANS (unless attached to MS/BS program).
Step 4: pass RDN exam
Keep in mind you must take Biochemistry AND organic chemistry to get your BS degree. These classes weed out the weak from the strong so be prepared (most of us barely pass with a C).
The dietetic internship is really tough to get through if you are supporting yourself, please keep this in mind when choosing degree programs. If you can get a BS/MS/DI program all looped together, you’ll be golden.
I have a ton of knowledge in this realm, if you have any other specific questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, personally.
I have worked in:
Community Nutrition (WIC program)
Sports Nutrition (Arizona Cardinals Football Club/NFL)
Clinical Nutrition (Mayo Clinic Hospital/Plaza Healthcare- Skilled Nursing Facility "SNF")
Your honesty about the BS, the DI challenges, and even those nerve-wracking biochem and organic chem classes gave me a clear picture of what lies ahead. Thanks for sharing your experience
Girls
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Dietitian careers are rewarding and combining science and helping others. To become a dietitian, one must have a bachelor's degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related field, which typically includes courses in food science, nutrition science, biochemistry, physiology, clinical nutrition, and counseling. A supervised dietetic internship is required after completing the bachelor's degree, providing hands-on experience in clinical, community, and food service settings.
To become an Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), one must pass the national registration examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Some states also require licensure. RDNs are required to complete continuing education to maintain their registration.
High-demand areas include clinical dietetics, community nutrition, sports nutrition, geriatric nutrition, pediatric nutrition, private practice, and the food industry. These areas focus on areas like diabetes management, renal disease, oncology, critical care, sports nutrition, geriatric nutrition, pediatric nutrition, private practice, and food product development, quality control, and marketing.
To gain experience in dietitian careers, one should volunteer or work in food service, healthcare, or community nutrition settings. Networking with dietitians, professors, and other professionals in the field is essential, as is staying updated on the latest research and guidelines. Strong communication skills are crucial for dietitians, and specialization in an area of interest can make one more competitive in the job market. A genuine passion for nutrition and helping others is essential for success in this field. Finding a mentor can help guide one through school and the beginning of their career.
To become an Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), one must pass the national registration examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Some states also require licensure. RDNs are required to complete continuing education to maintain their registration.
High-demand areas include clinical dietetics, community nutrition, sports nutrition, geriatric nutrition, pediatric nutrition, private practice, and the food industry. These areas focus on areas like diabetes management, renal disease, oncology, critical care, sports nutrition, geriatric nutrition, pediatric nutrition, private practice, and food product development, quality control, and marketing.
To gain experience in dietitian careers, one should volunteer or work in food service, healthcare, or community nutrition settings. Networking with dietitians, professors, and other professionals in the field is essential, as is staying updated on the latest research and guidelines. Strong communication skills are crucial for dietitians, and specialization in an area of interest can make one more competitive in the job market. A genuine passion for nutrition and helping others is essential for success in this field. Finding a mentor can help guide one through school and the beginning of their career.
Your practical tips are a real lifesaver as I start mapping out my path. Really grateful for your insights
Girls
Mustapha Yusuf
I'm a writer
9
Answers
Offa, KW
Updated
Mustapha’s Answer
To become a standout dietitian, you need to undergo some level of qualifications. Because this has to do with human health and wellness. As a dietitian, you need to understand this and study well to have a clear knowledge of dietitians and what it takes to become a dietitian. You must acquire some important certificate as a dietitian. this qualifications are:
1. A Relevant Degree – A bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field. Some countries require an accredited program.
2. Supervised Practice – Many places require a dietetic internship or supervised training (e.g., 1,200 hours in the U.S.).
3. Certification/Licensure – Depending on the country, you may need to pass an exam, such as the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam in the U.S. or equivalent in other countries.
4. Continuing Education – Many certifications require ongoing learning to stay updated with new research and guidelines.
High-Demand Areas in Nutrition:
Clinical Dietetics (working in hospitals, helping with medical conditions)
Sports Nutrition (working with athletes for performance optimization)
Public Health Nutrition (community programs, policy work)
Corporate Wellness (designing nutrition programs for companies)
Functional & Integrative Nutrition (alternative approaches, gut health)
Pediatric or Geriatric Nutrition (specialized for children or older adults)
Good luck
1. A Relevant Degree – A bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field. Some countries require an accredited program.
2. Supervised Practice – Many places require a dietetic internship or supervised training (e.g., 1,200 hours in the U.S.).
3. Certification/Licensure – Depending on the country, you may need to pass an exam, such as the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam in the U.S. or equivalent in other countries.
4. Continuing Education – Many certifications require ongoing learning to stay updated with new research and guidelines.
High-Demand Areas in Nutrition:
Clinical Dietetics (working in hospitals, helping with medical conditions)
Sports Nutrition (working with athletes for performance optimization)
Public Health Nutrition (community programs, policy work)
Corporate Wellness (designing nutrition programs for companies)
Functional & Integrative Nutrition (alternative approaches, gut health)
Pediatric or Geriatric Nutrition (specialized for children or older adults)
Good luck
I appreciate your wording approach and the valuable information you shared. Many thanks, eh!
Girls
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