Happy Tuesday friends! As we continue to celebrate nutrition month I wanted to devote this post to answering a question I am asked all the time- “What is the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian (RD)?” Many people assume that they are one in the same, but there is a healthy difference between the two. Dietitians and nutritionists share similar practices- they both rely on the science of nutrition to promote health, wellness and nutrition related programs and they both strive to help others through food. But there are many differences in the depth, scope, length, and type of formal education and training. Keep reading to find out the difference between the two!
Education
As you can see by this chart RD’s require extensive education in order to legally practice. On top of a 1200+ hour clinical internship, RD’s 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 site. In addition, the program must provide coursework that covers subjects in:
- Foodservice systems management
- Food and nutrition sciences
- Computer science
- Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Sociology
- Biochemistry
- Physiology
Although some nutritionists may not need any educational background to practice in their state, they will likely need to complete some formal coursework in nutrition-related subjects to qualify for employment. Nutritionists that seek the certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential are required to complete a baccalaureate or advanced degree in a nutrition discipline to qualify for the certification examination.
Credentials for Dietitians and Nutritionists
Like education, credentials are different between RD’s and nutritionist. To become an licensed RD, dietitians must: complete a baccalaureate degree from an ACEND-approved program; complete an ACEND-approved supervised clinical program; successfully pass the CDR registration examination {which is the most difficult exam I have ever taken!}; complete continuing professional education credits needed to maintain registration.
The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) offers nutritionists the opportunity to earn the certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential. To become a CNS, nutritionists must: complete a master’s or doctoral degree in a field-related discipline; complete 1,000 hours of supervised practical experience; successfully pass the CBNS certification examination; complete continuing professional education needed to maintain certification.
Which Career Is Right For Me?
I wish I could answer this for you but it truly all comes down to training and education. If you want to work as a registered dietitian like me, you will need to be ready to get a degree in nutrition, a Master’s in nutrition or similar field (like Public Health) and complete a dietetic internship. Some schools offer nutrition science programs with the option to take additional courses to become a registered dietitian (RD). If you choose to pursue a degree in nutrition science without becoming a dietitian, you can always go back and earn the credential.
Keep in mind, there are A LOT of nutrition enthusiasts out there who claim to be health experts. If you really want to work in this field and be successful and profitable at it, you will need the right credentials. For example, if you want to open your own practice, work at a doctor’s office or hospital, or work with the sick population, you will need to become a registered dietitian. By becoming a registered dietitian, you will be able to do all these things and practice legally in your state.
Bottom Line: They Both Rock!
As you can see there is a distinct difference between the two. Dietitians are qualified in assessing, diagnosing and treating those in need. If you are ever in need of nutritional advice then a nutritionist can provide you with a great deal of information. I highly recommend reaching out to a nutritionist for general questions or assistance in weight loss or weight gain. But if you have diabetes, heart disease or need help understanding your nutrition related labs, a registered dietitian is who can help you with those. I hope this gives you all a better understanding of the two!
Xo,
Great information! Congratularions on all of your hard work!