To work as a dietitian, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have at least a bachelor's degree;
• complete an internship; and
• pass an exam to become a registered dietitian.

Education after high school

Dietitians need at least a bachelor's degree. Common areas of study are dietetics, foods and nutrition, or food services management. In these programs, you study foods, nutrition, and food service. You also learn about biology, physiology, and chemistry.

On-the-job training

To be a registered dietitian, you must complete a supervised internship. If you work full time, an internship lasts six to 12 months. It takes longer if you work part time. In an internship, you work at a health care facility, an agency, or a food service company. An experienced dietitian supervises your work.

Military training

The military provides internships for dietitians. However, it does not provide the initial training to become a dietitian.