University of Kentucky®
Are you considering a career in dietetics? UK Online offers two online graduate programs that meet the graduate requirement needed to become a registered dietitian: Master’s in Nutrition and Food Systems and Master’s in Nutritional Sciences. Completing a degree online has several benefits including schedule flexibility to work or complete an internship while earning your degree, self-paced course load, and getting a high-quality level of education and support from staff and faculty. Learn all about career options, eligibility requirements, and specific details about each program to find the right fit for you!
Career Options
Dietitians help people live healthy lives and emphasize the power of food and sustainable eating as well as promoting active lifestyles. The dietetics field offers a variety of careers in different settings with room for flexibility.
Possible careers
- Hospital Setting- Medical nutrition therapy or clinical dietitian.
- Food Service- Food company consultant, food service manager, or food vendor and distribution.
- Community- establish worksite or community wellness programs.
- Communication- Public relations or marketing career for food-related businesses
- Occupational Nutrition Consultation- Educating athletes, military members, police, or firefighters with proper nutrition and physical activity.
- Research- Researching food alternatives, specific diets, or nutritional labels.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the 2021 Compensation & Benefits Survey of the Dietetics Profession, the median full-time salary of RDNs is $72,000 per year. Additionally, According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dietitians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2021-2031. There is an increased demand for nutritional research and actions towards preventing illness and disease. As with any occupation, salaries grow as experience and expertise advance.
Steps to Becoming a Registered Dietitian
- Complete didactic coursework
- Obtain an advanced degree (master’s level)
- Complete supervised practice hours through an organization accredited by ACEND
- Pass the national RDN exam
Eligibility to Sit for RDN Exam
As of January 1, 2024, dietitians are required to obtain an advanced degree prior to being able to sit for the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian. Our online program in MS in Nutrition and Food Systems or MS in Nutritional Sciences meet this requirement.
Online Programs in Nutrition Offered by University of Kentucky
Online Master’s in Nutrition and Food Systems
- This online program is offered through the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. The focus of the program is around studying the impact of food systems on diets and wellness. This program prepares students for careers in the healthcare field, community organizations, and food systems.
Online Master’s in Nutritional Sciences
- This online program is offered through the College of Medicine and College of Health Sciences. The focus is on advanced clinical nutrition and working with patients in all healthcare settings to maximize health outcomes. The program enhances the knowledge of clinical providers of all types to better serve their patients through medical nutrition therapy.
As you can see, there are extensive opportunities in the field of dietetics! Whether your goal is to work with food systems, a hospital or community setting, or within a corporation, UK Online offers programs that will get you on your path to reaching your goal.
