What is the difference between nutritionist and dietitian?

Many people mistakenly use the terms dietitian and nutritionist interchangeably. Although these two professions are undoubtedly related, they maintain distinctive qualities. The biggest difference between dietitians and nutritionists lies in the legal restrictions that each title carries. Only nutritionists that become registered with Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) may legally declare themselves as dietitians or more precisely, registered dietitians (RDs). Unlike dietitians, the nutritionist profession is much less protected under the law. In fact, nutritionists that do not intend to use the titles of dietitian or registered dietitian are often free from government regulation. Some states may require nutritionists to obtain an occupational license from a Board of Nutrition, while other states allow individuals to practice as nutritionists without any previous education, training or work experience. Dietitians and Nutritionists Career Outlook There is a valid reason why so many health care advocates are pursuing careers as dietitians and nutritionists: the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a positive occupational outlook for both professions. In 2012, the government reported the employment of 67,400 dietitians and nutritionists across the country. By 2022, this figure is expected to climb to 81,600. This addition of 14,200 jobs over a ten-year period equates to 21% employment growth change, which is a faster growth rate than the average for all other occupations. Education Difference between Dietitians and Nutritionists 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 site. In addition, the program must provide coursework that covers subjects in: Foodservice systems management Food and nutrition sciences Computer Science Chemistry Business Microbiology Sociology Biochemistry Physiology Economics 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.

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