As of 1997, there were 231 ADA-approved bachelor's degree programs. Supervised practice experience can be acquired in two ways. Students interested in research, advanced clinical positions, or public health should get a graduate degree. Recommended high school courses include biology, chemistry, mathematics, health, and home economics. Experienced dietitians may advance to assistant, associate, or director of a dietetic department, or become self-employed.
Some dietitians specialize in areas such as renal or pediatric dietetics.
Others may leave the occupation to become sales representatives for equipment or food manufacturers. Job Outlook Employment of dietitians is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2006 due to increased emphasis on the prevention of disease by improved health habits. A growing and aging population will increase demand for meals and nutritional counseling in nursing homes, schools, prisons, community health programs, and home health care agencies. Public interest in nutrition and the emphasis on health education and prudent lifestyles will also spur demand. Besides employment growth, job openings will also result from the need to replace experienced workers who leave the occupation.