To work in the field of nutrition, you must obtain an online Bachelor of Nutrition degree. Most commonly, your degree will be focused on dietetics, nutrition or nutritional science. Due to the nature of the topic, hands-on clinical training is required; therefore, most online distance learning programs are blended or hybrid programs. Hybrid programs simply mean that most coursework is completed online, but some on-campus attendance will be required. Please search for a school recognized by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
An online bachelor’s degree program in nutrition requires prerequisites in science and will take you about four years to complete if you are enrolled in full-time coursework. Your program may also demand an internship with supervised clinical rotations and a capstone project. Upon graduation from your online Bachelor of Dietetics program, you will qualify to take the Credentialing Examination for Registered Dietitians (RD). This test is offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
What will you learn through your online Bachelor of Nutrition degree program? Your core coursework may include many science classes, such as biochemistry for nutrition, anatomy, biology, as well as, physiology. Your degree program will also concentrate on food systems and management, food principles, nutrition therapy, nutritional evaluation, the science of human food, life cycles, in addition to, food safety, assessment and intervention. You’ll learn about the psychological relationships associated with food and health issues, in addition to, food and the effects of tradition and culture, our environment, availability, farming conditions, religion, and geography. Also, your degree program may include classes in accounting, writing, public speaking and marketing; useful for those who aspire to be in a management position.
Other coursework will include body metabolism, current events and awareness of nutrition, nutrition counseling, epidemiology, weight management, and food service administration. You’ll also learn how everyone’s nutritional needs differ as they age or life stages evolve, such as dietary needs for pregnancy or lactating mothers, modified diets for geriatric patients, or those with chronic diseases.
An online Bachelor of Nutrition degree program will prepare you for an entry-level job in the field; however, your degree will also provide you with a great foundation to build upon, such as in the field of medicine. Continued educational opportunities, such as additional certifications and graduate degree programs are available online for those who wish to advance in their careers.
If you select a career in this field, check out our choices for the Best Online Schools for Bachelor of Nutrition Degree Programs.