11/11/96 Opportunities for Careers in Dietetics Expand

Opportunities for Careers in Dietetics Expand

The number of students preparing for careers in nutrition and dietetics continues to expand as career opportunities blossom, according to The American Dietetic Association (ADA), the nation's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals.

CHICAGO, November 11, 1996

In 1990, nearly 12,000 students were enrolled in accredited/approved undergraduate programs in dietetics. By 1995, that number had increased to more than 18,000 students--including many ethnic minorities and men--in a traditionally female dominated field.

"Opportunities and options within the nutrition field have increased rapidly in the past decade," said Jacqueline Saracino, R.D. (registered dietitian), chair of ADA's diversity committee. "As nutrition science has evolved, and the public's understanding of its connection to health and well-being grows, careers for dietetics professionals have expanded in the marketplace."

"Nutrition professionals are uniquely qualified to translate nutrition science from the textbook to the table. It is unfortunate that many ethnic populations with high rates of nutrition-related diseases are the least represented by nutrition professionals within their own communities," said Saracino. "We're hopeful these numbers and the number of men pursuing careers in nutrition continue to increase."

Nationwide, more than 600 programs are accredited or approved to offer nutrition coursework to prepare dietitians and dietetic technicians. Students pursuing careers in dietetics study a variety of courses, including food and biological sciences, chemistry, math, communication and business management.

In addition to successful completion of an undergraduate degree in food and nutrition, registered dietitians must complete a required supervised practice program, prior to taking a national examination which qualifies them for registration. Dietetic technicians, registered (DTR), complete a minimum of an associate degree and supervised practice program before taking a national registration exam.

"Nutrition professionals know that foods represent more than sources of nutrients and that we choose foods for many reasons, including cultural, religious, economic and regional preferences," according to Saracino. "That is why it is essential those entering the field have a solid footing in the nutrition sciences and are sensitive to cultural, gender, and ethnic food preferences, customs and traditions."

As part of an effort to bolster minority participation in dietetics, ADA's member services group can provide written information and access to a videotape on careers in dietetics for potential students, career counselors, teachers and community centers.

Obtain more information on careers in dietetics, or schools offering nutrition coursework, on-line at http://www.eatright.org/careers.html.

Founded in 1917, the nearly 70,000-member American Dietetic Association is based in Chicago. Its members serve the public through the promotion of optimal nutrition, health and well-being.

Editor's note: Enrollment information from the Commission on Accreditation/Approval for Dietetic Education (CAADE) of The American Dietetic Association.


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