With an ever-growing focus on health and nutrition in the United States, the demand for skilled dietitians and nutrition professionals is on the rise. Choosing between a career in nutrition or dietetics is a significant decision. To address this need, Northwest Missouri State University offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition online program with two specialized tracks: General Nutrition and the Dietetics Internship.
The General Nutrition track allows students to expand their knowledge in nutrition without pursuing a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). This track is ideal for those interested in working in settings where additional nutrition policy, programming and leadership expertise is advantageous. It suits students with a foundational understanding of nutrition, health and exercise sciences, or health promotion and wellness.
The Dietetics Internship track is specifically tailored for students with a background in nutrition and dietetics who want to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Students will participate in an internship program at approved sites.
Why Study Nutrition and Dietetics?
Dietitians, like nutritionists, play an essential role in healthcare, offering expert advice on nutrition and diet. However, dietitians typically have a more clinical focus and often work within healthcare settings.
Northwest’s degree opens doors to even more specialized roles, too. Graduates can work as sports nutritionists who support athletes in achieving optimal performance; holistic nutritionists who focus on natural remedies for ailments; oncology nutritionists who aid cancer patients; pediatric nutritionists dedicated to the nutritional needs of children; and general dietitians who offer advanced nutritional advice. For those who wish to work independently as dietitians or consultants, it is a good idea to complement their expertise with business acumen.
There are many benefits of obtaining a degree in this field. It empowers professionals to make a significant positive impact on others’ lives by guiding their dietary and lifestyle choices. Graduates can choose from a wide variety of career paths, not limited to traditional nutrition-based roles.
Understanding the Differences Between Dietitians and Nutritionists
The distinction between the two can be tricky since the terms are often used interchangeably. Indeed, all registered dietitians can be considered nutritionists, but the reverse is not always true. Both areas focus on promoting healthier eating habits and finding the right dietary balance to improve overall health. Professionals in both areas work across a broad spectrum of settings and industries, from healthcare facilities and schools to gyms and sports organizations.
However, one key distinction lies in the titles: “registered dietitian” and “registered dietitian nutritionist” are protected, meaning only those who have met specific qualifications can use them, unlike the more generic “nutritionist.” While some nutritionists receive certification from organizations like the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists, the criteria and regulations for such certifications vary widely, and many areas do not require nutritionists to be certified at all.
Other key distinctions between the two include education, training and credentials. Registered dietitians are uniquely qualified to offer medical nutrition therapy for treating diseases through diet and providing counseling for disease prevention and general wellness.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics?
The versatility of Northwest’s program allows graduates to consider roles such as nutrition and wellness coaches (who guide individuals towards healthier lifestyles) and public health nutritionists (who work on nutritional programs within communities to improve overall health outcomes). As personal trainers, graduates can apply their expertise to support and motivate individuals and groups in achieving their wellness goals. Opportunities in hospital food services management and senior care management highlight the demand for professionals capable of meeting dietary needs in various care settings.
The evolving field also opens doors to innovative careers such as nutrition researchers, who investigate the effects of diet on health, and positions in nutrition education, where experts teach the next generation about the importance of dietary health. The degree’s flexibility also allows for entrepreneurship, as graduates can start their own businesses in dietary consulting, health coaching or even develop health-focused products and services.
The field is proliferating at a rate of 7% annually and offering strong compensation — and an average salary of $66,450 for dietitians and nutritionists, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — the investment in a nutrition and dietetics education promises a fulfilling and prosperous career.
With the growing recognition of nutrition’s role in health and disease prevention, graduates can also contribute to policymaking and advocacy, working towards systemic changes that promote nutritional well-being at the community and national levels. This diversity in career paths highlights the profound impact well-educated nutrition and dietetics professionals can have on individual and public health. Additionally, the program’s choice of two tracks in either general nutrition or dietetics allows professionals to pick the path that best suits their needs.
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online M.S. in Nutrition program.
