FAQ - Dietetics and Nutrition Science

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutritional Science

What is the difference between Dietetics and Nutrition Science?

The difference in the two programs is basically the direction that you want to go once you achieve a Bachelors Degree. With a degree in Dietetics, you would be able to complete a 1 year internship, after obtaining your degree, that would qualify you for a Registered Dietitian License (RD). The internship is strictly optional. Students do not have to obtain their RD Licensure to have a career in Dietetics. The licensure does provide more career opportunities though.

If you have career goals of ultimately attending Medical School or an advanced degree in a science area you would need to pursue the Nutrition Science major. This major requires upper level math and science courses (Calculus, Advanced Chemistry, Physics…) that would prepare you to compete to be accepted into Medical School or an advanced degree program. The background that you would gain in the area of Nutrition and Dietetics in this major is similar to that of the Dietetics degree. The Nutrition degree will prepare you for a professional career in medicine with a background in nutrition. If you have no intention on attending Medical School or and advanced degree program you probably are interested in the Dietetics degree. The University of Cincinnati offers degrees in both.

What kind of careers are available to me with a degree in Dietetics?

There are many things you can do with a degree in Dietetics. The field of dietetics has grown immensely over the past 10 years. Americans are more than ever concerned with what they eat and how it affects their health. Careers that you may pursue may be in areas of management, clinics, communities, education, research, consultation and business. For specific information about a career in Dietetics, you can contact the American Dietetic Association (ADA) at 1-800-877-1600.

What salary can I expect in a career in Dietetics?

Based on the American Dietetic Association's "Compensation and Benefits Survey of the Dietetics Profession 2005", among all RDs in all positions, the median annual full-time salary was $49,500. The median full-time salary for RDs in the position from one to four years was $44,990 annually.