Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Dietitians and Nutritionists

Dietitians and nutritionists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the science of food and nutrition. They work with individuals, families, and groups to promote healthy eating habits and prevent or treat a variety of medical conditions.

Dietitians may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools. They may be responsible for developing and implementing nutrition plans for patients, monitoring patients’ progress, and providing education and counseling on healthy eating habits.

Nutritionists may work in similar settings and may also be responsible for researching and analyzing the nutritional content of food, as well as developing and promoting healthy eating habits through education and public health campaigns.

To become a dietitian or nutritionist, individuals typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field. Some states may also require dietitians and nutritionists to be licensed or certified in order to practice. Dietitians and nutritionists should have strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills, as well as an understanding of the principles of nutrition and how they apply to individual and public health.