Treating Disease through Food with Medical Nutrition Therapy

Medical Nutrition Therapy Degree Information

What Are My Potential Career Options In This Field?

There are numerous industries that can benefit from the services of nutritionists. These include everything from the public health sector to corporations and even sports organizations. When working as a nutritionist you can also choose an area in which to specialize, such as geriatric nutrition if you want to deal with nutritional issues faces by older adults or pediatric nutrition if you prefer helping children. Nutritionists also often work in the capacity of management dietitians or clinical nutritionists. Earning a master's degree in medical nutrition therapy will also steel you for the challenges that come from assuming a management role and provide you with an in-depth understanding of the processes involved in nutritional care and nutrient absorption.

With a master's degree in tow, a management position within a health care facility as a clinical dietetic supervisor is a distinct possibility.

Who Is An Ideal Candidate To Study Medical Nutrition Therapy?

Because you might be dealing with a range of clients it is important that you are able to communicate effectively and build a rapport with them. This means having excellent listening skills and being able to approach your work in a logical manner. Analytical skills are equally important, as is problem solving and time management skills. If you plan on working for yourself, then time management skills are vital along with an aptitude for business.

What Type of Responsibilities Might I Have As A Nutritionist?

Depending on the industry in which you choose to work you might have a number of different responsibilities. These can include conducting consultations with clients in a confidential manner in order to assess factors such as their health problems, diet and lifestyle as well as family history. You might also be required to help clients understand the effect of nutritional deficiencies on their health, recommend laboratory tests, and formulate personalized nutrition plans.

How Much Can I Potentially Earn When Working As A Nutritionists?

Figures released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2015 show that dietitians and nutritionists earned a median annual wage of $57,910. While those in the lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,240, the highest ten percent earned upwards of $80,950. The highest paying industries for dietitians and nutritionists are outpatient care centers and hospitals, followed closely by nursing and residential care facilities and government. When working in a personal capacity your income will depend largely on how many clients you see and the frequency at which you perform consultations.