What is the difference between a Nutritionist and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)? The job titles sound similar, but the roles are in fact quite distinct.
The difference between the two lies in their education and training. This affects the roles they can take on and the services they are qualified to provide.
Nutritionists — a broader category of professionals — do not have specific education or training requirements. They may have training or certifications in nutrition and can offer general nutritional advice.
However, nutritionists cannot give personalized medical nutrition therapy counseling unless they hold another recognized medical credential. As such, while many social medial nutrition influencers may sound authoritative, they don’t have official credentials to give counseling.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists hold credentials as health professionals. They have finished a master’s program and an accredited Supervised Practice program. This background prepares them to offer evidence-based nutritional care in many different settings.
How To Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
To become an RDN, you must complete:
- Required dietetics coursework
- A master’s degree
- Supervised practice in various professional settings
- The RDN national credentialing exam
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics outlines the current requirements to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.
The first step involves completing didactic coursework approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Didactic refers to courses where the primary focus is on direct instruction from the teacher. This coursework lays the foundation in areas such as food science, biochemistry, and medical nutrition therapy.
Next, you need a graduate degree in any field, unless you have already earned one. Additionally, completing an accredited Supervised Practice program, such as a Dietetic Internship, is essential. This hands-on training is typically a full-time or non-paid commitment that lasts six to 12 months. It’s invaluable for building the skills needed to work effectively in professional environments.
As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, you have many career options to explore. One common setting is healthcare institutions, such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. Other options include roles in business and industry, community health, education, research, government agencies, and private practice.
RDNs often lead public health efforts on a local level. They help create policies and programs that aim to improve community health.
