Introduction

Dietetics is the study of human nutrition and its application in providing for the dietary needs of people.

Dietetics programs are designed to prepare people for occupations as professional dietitians, dietetic technicians, and dietetic assistants. Students learn to provide nutritional services, plan menus, and provide diet consultation for individuals, families, and institutions.

Some community colleges offer two-year associate degrees in dietetic technology or related fields. Short-term certificate programs such as 90 clock-hours of dietetic assistant training may also be available. Students learn about nutrition and develop skills in menu planning and quantity food preparation for institutional food services. Some short-term programs are limited to people employed in food service in health care facilities, nursing homes, correctional institutions, or school cafeterias.

Bachelor's degree and graduate programs approved by the American Dietetic Association are designed to prepare people for professional dietetic careers. Six to twelve months of clinical experience is required for registration as a Registered Dietitian. Some students complete the internship following graduation. Some schools allow students to complete the required clinical experience while obtaining their bachelor's degree. For further information about licensing, see the licensing topic in the Dietitians occupation. Professional dietetic programs provide options for specialized study in areas such as administration, education, research, and clinical and community dietetics.

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