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Clinical nutritionists assess patients’ nutritional needs and develop plans to ensure adequate diets. They typically work in healthcare settings, and a bachelor’s degree in a science or nutrition-related field is required. Licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction, and some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree. High school science and health courses can provide a useful foundation for college, where classes in nutrition, biology, and chemistry are necessary. Written tests and training internships may be required for licensure.
A clinical nutritionist assesses patients’ nutritional needs and helps develop plans to ensure adequate diets. Generally, some college education is required for a person who wants to become a clinical nutritionist. For example, a person might need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to science or nutrition to secure a job. Some employers may even prefer job applicants with a master’s degree over those with lesser amounts of education. Also, a person who wants to become a clinical nutritionist may need to be licensed or certified in their jurisdiction. This usually requires the aspiring nutritionist to pass the exam. However, there can be wide variation in requirements depending on the laws of the specific jurisdiction.
A clinical nutritionist can work in many types of health care settings, including nursing homes and hospitals. He typically creates nutritional plans that meet patients’ needs and oversees the implementation of these plans. In many cases, a clinical nutritionist works with physicians and other members of a healthcare team to ensure that patients’ nutritional needs are met. Some people in this field work for the benefit of all types of patients, while others may specialize in a particular type of patient, such as those with critical illnesses.
To prepare to become a clinical nutritionist, a person can start by taking a high school science and health degree. These courses can provide a useful foundation for the type of work he will have to complete in college. Composition courses can also be useful for a person studying this field, as they can help him develop written communication skills useful for this career. In lieu of obtaining a high school diploma, a person interested in this career can obtain a general educational development (GED) diploma or a jurisdiction-approved equivalent.
In college, a person who wants to become a clinical nutritionist might do well to earn a bachelor of science degree. Obtaining a degree in nutrition or another health-related specialization usually provides adequate preparation. Regardless of the degree a person chooses to obtain, they usually need to take classes in nutrition, biology, and chemistry. Physiology and biochemistry courses are also often helpful. While a person may be successful in finding a job after earning a bachelor’s degree, some may find that they have more opportunities for advancement after earning a master’s degree.
Licensing requirements for a person wanting to become a clinical nutritionist often depend on the jurisdiction in which he or she plans to work. Many places require aspiring clinical dietitians to take written tests, and some may make training internships mandatory. After fulfilling the requirements for their jurisdiction, a person who wants to become a clinical nutritionist can apply for a job in the health care facilities that interest him.
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