Becoming a Dietitian
If you enjoy the science of food and nutrition and how it relates to human health, then dietetics is for you. The growing field of dietetics provides challenging opportunities in clinical/hospital, community, management, research, education, private practice and business settings.

Salary and Employment Expectations
Annual salaries for dietitians vary based on work experience, area of practice and employer. The average annual income range for a dietitian in Michigan is approximately $37,000 - $41,000 for entry-level.

With their strong background in science, practical experience, bachelor's degree, completion of a registration exam and maintenance of continuing education credits, Registered Dietitians are the nutrition experts. Specialized credentials may be obtained in certain areas like diabetes education, renal nutrition, metabolic support, pediatrics, and enteral and parenteral nutrition support based on experience and years of practice.

Requirements/Education
How can you become a Registered Dietitian?

• Earn a bachelor's degree in dietetics, nutrition or related science from an ADA (American Dietetic Association) approved program.
• Obtain practical experience through an ADA approved dietetic internship or coordinated program (which combines both academic and performance requirements). Graduate credit and graduate degrees may be incorporated in any of the above programs.
• Pass a national qualifying examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. After passing the exam, the dietitian may use the credentials - R.D. (registered dietitian) after his/her name.
• Complete mandatory continuing education credits every five years to maintain R.D. credentials.

Southeastern Michigan has bachelors degree programs for dietitians available at the following locations:
Madonna University (Livonia)
Wayne State University (Detroit)

To find out more about these programs and other dietetic programs in Michigan, see our Dietetic Programs listing and/or contact the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org