Majors at the University of Connecticut
Dietetics
The Coordinated Program in dietetics combines both the theory learned in the classroom along with supervised practice in community, clinical, and food service sites off campus. This prepares the students for the National Registered Dietitian Examination, which is taken upon graduation, and is required of students in order to become a Registered Dietitian. The Dietetics Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation/Approval for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association. Each undergraduate student completes more than 900 hours of supervised practice prior to graduation.
Academic Department
Nature of Work
Dietitians are food specialists that are responsible for nutritional care and food service. They assess nutritional needs, plan individualized dietary plans, provide counseling, and evaluate nutritional care for individuals and groups. They help people make smart food choices to keep them healthy; advise doctors and nurses regarding nutrition; teach people about the importance of good nutrition and healthful food choices; manage food service businesses; and supervise people who prepare and serve food. They are responsible for promoting good health and proper eating.
Sample Job Titles
- Dietician
- Dietary Manager
- Community Dietitian
- Dietetic Aide
- Dietetic Educator
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- Dietetic Technician
- Dietetic Clerk
- Research Dietitian
- Clinical Dietitian
- Administrative Dietitian
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Potential Employers
Dietitians can practice in many areas. Some of the more common places are: hospitals and other health care facilities; nursing homes; school systems including colleges and universities; medical centers; research laboratories; public health facilities; government agencies; and day-care centers.
Useful Skills
In order to be a successful dietitian, one needs to: enjoy working with people, have a strong interest in food and nutrition, have a strong background in the sciences, and be able to utilize that knowledge to solve nutrition-related problems. A successful dietician is extremely motivated, and has good judgment and understanding of human nature.
Getting Experience
With the dietetics program, gaining experience in the field is a required. It is important to participate in as much supervised practice as possible through the coordinated program and/or dietetic internships. Becoming involved in a wide range of organizations is essential to be successful as a dietitian. Also, interviewing current dietitians to found out more information can he helpful to learn more about the profession prior to your pursuing a career.
Employment Opportunities
The need for dieticians is expected to grow due to the increased emphasis on disease prevention, a growing and aging population and public interest in nutrition. Also, the focus of health education along with prudent lifestyles will add to the demand. In recent years there has been an emphasis placed on nutrition in order to prevent disease. The employment in hospitals is expected to slow as more and more dietitians are opening their own private practice, rather than work through the hospital. Due to the increase in the elderly, there is a strong need for dietitians in elderly homes. As more people are living longer, there is a greater need for nutritional counseling and meal preparation in the nursing and elderly housing.
Internet Links
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