General Information About Nutrition Degree Programs

The human body, like all organisms, contains chemical compounds that digest and absorb nutrients through the bloodstream. It is the job of nutritionists to learn about the chemical composition of diet and how this affects the body. Nutritionists develop menus for clients and eateries, develop nutrition education programs, research nutritional issues like obesity, evaluate diets for nutritional value and inspect food safety.

Nutrition sciences include all aspects of the use and consumption of food. Clinical nutrition, or dietetics, integrates basic nutrition classes with food service management, education, sociology and psychology. Students take classes in chemistry, biology, calculus, physics, economics and biochemistry to gain a better understanding of how the body and nutrients work.

The American Dietetic Association (ADA) should accredit these degree programs, particularly if the student wants to become a dietitian. Nutrition graduates can apply for ADA-approved dietetic internships prior to taking the national exam to become a registered dietitian. Registered dietitians (R.D.) need to have earned a B.S. in Nutrition in a curriculum that meets ADA Didactic Program requirements. Note that while anyone can be a nutritionist, only certified and registered dietitians may use that particular title after meeting the strict educational prerequisites as established by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

Bachelor Of Science In Nutrition

A B.S. in Nutrition helps students prepare for post-graduate studies in other health-related professions by providing a solid background in life sciences, human nutrition and molecular biology. Some schools offer specific nutrition concentrations that focus on other aspects, such as managing food at a restaurant or creating community health and wellness programs. Other degree programs have a focus on fitness and exercise and physiological sciences.

Master Of Science In Nutrition

A Master of Science in Nutrition further deals with food quality and nutritional requirements. Students continue the core coursework found in nutrition, food science and food management in addition to advanced biochemistry, physiology, chemistry, biology and behavioral and social sciences. Other aspects, such as metabolism and nutrients, operating food service facilities, fitness and exercise, nutrition problems in the community and society and food related to diseases are also covered as a graduate student. A solid foundation of biology, chemistry and physiology is required before being admitted. Some programs require students to develop and research a thesis. On completion of the program, graduates can take the test to become a registered dietitian.

Further Education In Nutrition

Earning a doctorate in nutritional science dictates focusing either on basic nutrition or applied nutrition, which includes education at the doctorate level. Both specializations require a dissertation and research concerning a focus of nutrition. Ph.D. candidates should have a strong background in biology, biochemistry, physiology and other sciences, as the coursework is at a very advanced level.

Coursework For Nutrition Degrees

Coursework for nutrition degrees encompass the hard sciences such as biology, chemistry and physics, calculus, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, microbiology, toxicology and immunology. Students also have to take a mathematics component, usually calculus, and social science courses or other health-related sciences including food service management and food and science technology.

If the student is interested in a career in food management, some basic business courses like accounting and management are required as well. Other possible courses include classes on dieting, weight loss and eating disorders as well as psychological aspects of fitness and exercises, sports nutrition and medicine, metabolic adaption, biostatistical applications, public health programs and diet evaluation.

Career Opportunities For Nutrition Graduates

Employment for nutritionists is very much in demand as public and private organizations try to address the health problems attributed to health issues, whether it is a lack of exercise, not eating properly or genetics. Graduates can find work in research labs, biotechnology firms, medical facilities, schools, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies and all areas of the food industry. Students can also continue studying for an advanced degree in pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, medicine, law or education.

Dietitians specialize in the diet, meal planning and preparation of food by supervising food preparation and educating others on the benefits of eating well. Registered dietitians can find jobs in health administration, education, research and in public health or public service positions in hospitals, schools, clinics and government agencies. Clinical dietitians provide nutritional services to hospital patients and medical institutions, whereas community dietitians work in public health clinics and health maintenance organizations with individuals and groups on how to improve nutritional practices and prevent disease. Other career possibilities include food service director, clinical researcher, fitness director, community programmer, hospital administration, or working at a food and nutrition company.

Earning Potential For Nutrition Graduates

While the job outlook for graduates in nutrition programs is high, the salary is largely dependent on the amount of schooling. For example, someone who goes on to obtain a medical degree is going to earn more than someone with just a B.S. in Nutrition does. The U.S. Bureau of Labor reported that the median annual earning for dietitians and nutritionists were $46,980, with a range of $38,430 to $57,090, depending on the location, position and education. Health educators earn an average yearly salary of $41,330, while food service managers earn a median salary of $43,020.