What do dietitians make a year

The primary difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist is the education level and the regulations surrounding their careers. To become a dietitian, you must complete a certain level of education as well as pass an examination and become certified as a registered dietitian. Nutritionists, on the other hand, are not required by law to hold any certifications or complete a certain level of education. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist and offer nutrition-related advice; however, most nutritionists do pursue certification through nutritionist certification boards.

There are several ways a dietitian can increase their salary, including:. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a dietitian, consider these similar jobs:. Find jobs. Company reviews. Find salaries. Upload your resume. Sign in. How much do dietitians make? Job outlook for dietitians. Dietitian salaries by state. Frequently asked questions about being a dietitian.

What level of education do you need to be a dietitian? Where do dietitians work? What are the different types of dietitians? What's the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist? The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of jobs for dietitians to increase 20 percent between and , higher than the average expected rate of 14 percent for all occupations.

The increase in nutrition-related diseases over the past several years has spurred a renewed interest in nutrition issues, driving demand for dietitians. Conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes can often be prevented with the right diet.

In addition, America's aging population will increase the need for dietitians in nursing care facilities. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Geographic areas that have higher concentrations of people are most likely to have more people dealing with obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic diseases associated with aging, all of whom benefit from the services provided by dietitians.

Different variables, especially the type of work you do, will affect your earning power as a dietitian. For example, being faculty members or consultants, being involved in management and supervisory functions, and having budget authority. Merchant wholesalers, non-durable goods Work with food wholesalers and manufacturers to provide nutrition facts and meal plans based on the products they sell to businesses, retailers, and other organizations. Outpatient care centers Offer guidance in meal planning and food selection to help patients manage chronic conditions through periodic consultations.

Specialty except psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals Work with kitchen staff to provide meal choices that align with the unique needs of specialty patients such as children, and educate family members on ways to continue good nutrition after discharge.

General medical and surgical hospitals Monitor and assess patients to provide individualized nutritional care that supports a wide range of changing conditions and disease states. Variables such as advanced education and specialization certifications can help you increase your earnings no matter where you live. Dietitians who pass the credentialing exam can use either the RD or RDN designation and work in positions as dietitians.

In addition to educating yourself to provide more comprehensive professional service, specialty certifications allow you to focus your practice on specific conditions or patient demographic groups. Board-certified specialists are credentialed by the Commission on Dietetic Registration CDR , which serves as the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

CDE certification equips you to work with patients and families to help them manage self-care skills for their condition.