A nutritionist assists people in developing and implementing healthy eating habits that are tailored to their individual needs and conditions. He or she could work in a hospital, health clinic, correctional facility, university, or research institution, among other places. Many nutritionists choose to open their own practices and provide services to a wide range of people and businesses. A person who wants to work as a nutritionist must usually have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, meet any licensing requirements in his or her area, and work as an intern for a certain amount of time.
A high school student interested in becoming a nutritionist can prepare taking advanced anatomy, physiology, biology, and health courses. Students gain a basic understanding of the internal human body, food digestion processes, and the effects that certain foods can have on a person’s overall health. Most aspiring nutritionists apply to four-year universities with strong science departments near the end of high school.
Undergraduates who study nutrition or dietetics in college usually take a variety of courses in food science and human health. Prospective nutritionists are taught both in the classroom and in the laboratory about various research techniques and clinical procedures related to nutrition. Students frequently take business management and communications classes to learn more about the administrative and customer service aspects of their future careers.
A bachelor’s degree is usually enough to work as a nutritionist, though some people pursue advanced degrees to deepen their understanding of nutrition principles and improve their job prospects. Master’s degree and PhD programs often allow students to conduct independent research in addition to classroom and laboratory studies. Before receiving their degrees, students may be required to write thesis papers or dissertations based on their findings.
Before beginning a nutritionist career, a graduate may be required to pass a written licensing exam administered his or her state or country. Most exams cover topics such as human physiology and general health, as well as food safety, occupational health, and ethics, which were covered in college. Before practicing independently, some locations and employers require new nutritionists to complete supervised internships, which can last up to two years. Although certification is not always required for employment, a professional may choose to obtain additional certification as a registered dietitian to improve his or her credentials. After completing all education, licensing, and internship requirements, a nutritionist can begin a challenging and rewarding career.