Frequently Asked Questions: Basic Career

  1. What career opportunities are available for registered dietitians (RD) and dietetic technicians, registered (DTR)?
  2. Is the Dietetic Technician (DT) Program a stepping-stone to the programs to become a RD?
  3. How can I find a summer work experience or volunteer experience?

 

  1. What career opportunities are available for registered dietitians (RD) and dietetic technicians, registered (DTR)?
    Check out information on career opportunities, salaries, and job outlook for registered dietitians and dietetic technicians, registered.

  2. Is the Dietetic Technician (DT) Program a stepping-stone to the programs to become a RD?
    Individuals who complete an associate degree in a Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) accredited DT Program may be able to transfer academic credits to a bachelor's degree Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP) or Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). Some DT Programs have established articulation agreements that specify the coursework that will be accepted as transfer credit. For those DT Programs without formal agreements, it is necessary to confer with the CP or DPD Program Director to determine if the courses you have completed will be accepted as fulfilling some of the curriculum requirements for becoming a RD.

    Currently, there is one CADE-accredited CP for DTRs who want to become RDs. This CP is at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Other DT programs with articulation agreements can be found in the list of DT Programs.

  3. How can I find a summer work experience?
    The American Dietetic Association (ADA) does not coordinate placement of dietetics students for summer work experience. Contact your State Professional Recruitment Coordinator (SPRC) for advice or possible leads. Another resource is your state and local dietetic association. Many associations have job hotlines available for their members. It is important to note that ADA does not endorse or approve work or volunteer experience hours as credit towards education or supervised practice requirements. However, volunteering does add value to your portfolio. You may wish to contact a local hospital about volunteering in the nutrition department or participate in a local community event. To find out more about volunteering opportunities, please visit the ADA Student Scoop, Issue 3, volume 3 (May issue), feature article.

 

June 2004

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