They assess nutritional needs, treat dietary problems, and help individuals to prevent disease through good dietary practices. They also manage food service in health care or commercial settings. Dietitians are licensed to give group and individual nutrition counseling and serve as nutrition consultants to other health care professionals. The field combines practice and research in food, nutrition, and health with education about diet and food choices. Dietitians play an important role in fitness, health and nutritional treatment of diseases.
Most graduates start off as dietitians in hospitals, nursing homes or community agencies.
Several graduates have gone to medical school, some have become sales representatives for medical nutrition products. A few graduates go into private practice or consultation, some have government or military careers, and many distinguish themselves in hospital management or food services operations. A minimum of four units with an emphasis on writing is required. Social sciences . Two units are required, three recommended.