Pennsylvania Registered Dietitians (RD) are professionals who provide food and nutrition related information as well as advice. They address different issues surrounding foods, nutrition and eating choices, and often undertake complex research (both medical and nutrition). Many people rely on them to make healthy eating choices. Here is an in-depth look at how to become a Registered Dietitian in Pennsylvania.
Where are Registered Dietitians employed?
These professionals work in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, corporate nutrition programs and sports nutrition. They can also be found in long term care facilities and community or public health facilities among others.
Steps to Becoming an RD in Pennsylvania
First Step: Complete the Dietetics program
Dietetics is an academic program meant to prepare individuals to apply knowledge about foods and nutrition in the prevention and treatment of disease as well promoting health. It also prepares them for leadership and management positions with a bias on food service and systems management. Dietetics is a good field of study for individuals with a deep interest in food and nutrition and who wish to work in a public setting to promote as well as optimize good health.
Dietetics Option of the Nutritional Sciences Major
Individuals who wish to become a Registered Dietitians can undertake this option which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) .It provides a strong foundation in fields such as foods, nutrition and science with a curriculum developed to meet the standards set by ACEND.
The coursework in this program is very challenging with students often undertaking classes with undergraduate students specializing in areas like nursing, chemistry, pre-medicine, biochemistry, food science, exercises science, hospitality management, and molecular and cell biology. They may also share classes with graduate students studying nutrition.
Second Step: Join an accredited dietetic internship (DI) program.
Aspiring RDs have several options to apply to. These are:
- Traditional DI program
- Distance DI program
- Dual DI & master’s degree program.
It’s important to note that acceptance to any of these programs is a highly competitive process. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) maintains a program list of all accredited DI programs.
Is it mandatory for one to become a Registered Dietitian?
While it isn’t a requirement for one to be a Registered Dietitian in order to secure employment in the food and nutrition industry in the State of Pennsylvania, having the right credentials is often interpreted to mean that one is an expert in foods and nutrition. This may explain why most employers have a preference for candidates who hold the Registered Dietitian licensure. Pennsylvania dietitians have higher chances of landing jobs or promotions.
What is the salary scale for Registered Dietitians In Pennsylvania?
Like is the case with other professions, the salaries and fees for Pennsylvania Registered Dietitians vary based on various factors such as the region where one is working , the employment setting and scope of responsibility. Salaries tend to increase with work experience or advancement in education.
What is the job outlook for Registered Dietitians In Pennsylvania?
The job outlook for these professionals looks very promising especially when compared to other occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the demand for RDs and to grow by up to 20 percent over the period between 2010 and 2020.