Supervised practice experience can be acquired in two ways. Internships and preprofessional practice programs may be full-time programs lasting 9 to 12 months or part time programs lasting 2 years. Graduate programs are available for those interested in research, advanced clinical positions, or public health where a graduate degree is usually needed. 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.
Other dietitians leave the occupation and become sales representatives for equipment or food manufacturers. Job Outlook Employment of dietitians is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005 as demand grows for meals and nutritional counseling in nursing homes, schools, prisons, community health programs, home health care agencies, diet workshops, and health clubs. Public interest in nutrition and the emphasis on health education and prudent lifestyles will add to the demand. Many job openings will also result from the need to replace experienced workers who leave the occupation. Management and self-employed dietitians earned more than clinical and community dietitians.