The global nutrition and supplement industry has boomed over the past decade as new diet fads and scientific research have emerged, encouraging more people to focus on their health and the role that nutrition plays. As a result, there is an increasing need for professionals who can provide guidance on proper eating regimens and supplement choices.Nutrition professionals work directly with clients or patients to improve their overall nutrition through targeted meal plans and evaluation. Graduates of online nutrition degrees may pursue careers as health educators, nutritionists, dietitians and public health professionals, among others. Candidates should have strong communication skills, a passion for working with others, technical knowledge of tools used to assess general health, and a knowledge of medical software and analytical databases. Prospective students should seek programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND).According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nutritionists and dietitians face a much higher than average rate of job growth at 16% between 2014 and 2024. Those who earn their online degree in nutrition stand to enter a strong job market with the knowledge and tools necessary to secure jobs that are both enjoyable and beneficial to public health.
Meet Our Expert: Shawna Kunselman
Clinical Nutritionist, Wellness Speaks
Online Nutrition Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $11,167 | 15.25% | 2 years | $30,900 | $52,100 | Not reported |
| Bachelor's | $17,351 | 12.42% | 4 years | $41,700 | $57,700 | 6.4% |
| Master's | $17,401 | 4.35% | 2 years | $49,800 | $70,400 | 2.9% |
Most entry-level nutritionists have a bachelor's degree, and though advanced degrees are not required, the additional education gained from an online nutrition degree will prepare professionals for conducting research or teaching. Professionals holding higher degrees enjoy higher salaries and return on investment (ROI), but this depends on experience and job location. Job availability in the nutrition and dietetics field is predicted to increase 16% by 2024.
Online Nutrition Degrees
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| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Dietitians | $56,950 | 16% | 66700 |
| Nutrition Professor | $70,790 | 13% | 1313700 |
| Personal Trainer | $34,980 | 8% | 279100 |
| Food Technologist | $60,690 | 5% | 36100 |
| Food Quality Assurance Manager | $35,330 | 0% | 469600 |
Online Nutrition Degree in Action
Meet Our Expert: Shawna Kunselman
Clinical Nutritionist, Wellness SpeaksShawna Kunselman is about to graduate with a Master's in Applied Clinical Nutrition, where she has taken the entire two-year program through New York Chiropractic College online. It has been a great experience and a great program. She is a strident proponent of the online format: "Some people think there is not enough interaction through online courses, yet this is not true. Through discussion posts, email correspondence, conference calls, creating YouTube projects, and group projects, there has been a great deal of personal interaction and it has been a remarkable learning experience."
Online Nutrition Professional Requirements
Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Registered dietitians (RDs) typically hold at least a bachelor's degree accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). After completing an online nutrition degree, students must pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination (CDR) in order to be credentialed as an RD. Most states require certification or licensure in the respective state where the RD will be practicing, and these professionals must maintain their credentials through continuing professional education (CPE) and by retaking the CDR every five years.
Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR) or Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)
Nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered (NDTRs) and dietetic technicians, registered (DTRs) work under the supervision of registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs). This position requires an associate degree in nutrition and 450 hours of supervised practice experience. After completing a nutrition degree online, technicians are required to pass the Registrations Examination for Dietetic Technicians, administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), and must maintain credentials by completing 50 hours of continuing education every five years.
ISSA (Personal Trainer)
Those interested in becoming personal trainers must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete a certification program accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) offers an online Personal Fitness Trainer Certification Examination that is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Prerequisites for certification include holding a current CPR/AED Certification with live skills check. Once certified, personal trainers can specialize in a variety of areas including group fitness instructor, health coach, or a medical exercise specialist.