How to become a registered nutritionist in Australia: careers in nutrition
Nutritionists consult clients about adjusting their diets to improve general health, regulate moods and address specific diet-related health problems. They ask their clients about eating habits, exercise regimes and health issues to identify what dietary requirements or physical factors need to be addressed to promote a healthy lifestyle. At least three years of professional experience and a post-graduate qualification are required in order to become a registered nutritionist.
Registered nutritionists consult with clients on their eating behaviours, assessing their current diets and health and fitness goals. They work with them to structure diet plans specific to their needs, which can include weight loss, improving fertility or addressing allergies. Nutritionists may work in research settings, examining technological innovations or clinical studies of diets in groups of people.
Tasks:
- Creating personalised diet plans
- Monitoring healthy progress in clients
- Keeping abreast of developments in nutrition
- Educating public about nutrition
- Carrying out research
Registered nutritionists spend a lot of time talking face-to-face with clients, so need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. They need a high level of scientific abilities and health science knowledge. They need to be willing to develop an understanding of nutritional science and keep up-to-date with research findings.
Skills/attributes
- Good communication skills
- Knowledge of human nutritional science
- Passionate about helping others
- Interest in food preparation
- Advocates healthy living
Does this sound like you?
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Multiple career options exist to those who study nutrition science. Nutritionists can undertake further qualifications, pursue research positions, devise public health programs or specialise in their practice to target specific health conditions.
Exercise scientists structure diet plans for athletes who have strict dietary requirements aligning with their particular level of physical exertion and activity. They aim to ensure optimal physical health and performance for athletes.
Environmental implications on human health are assessed by environmental health officers. Impacts of pollution or asbestos, for example, can adversely affect human health, and these professionals monitor and analyse health and actions that can be put into place to counteract it.
Nutritionists need to undergo further study in clinical nutrition and dietetics in order to become a dietician. Dieticians are highly specialised professionals who are qualified to give medical advice and detailed insights that nutritionists cannot give.
There are a range of qualifications you can pursue to become a registered nutritionist, depending on the specialisation you wish to follow.
Start your career
Gain an understanding of what professional registered nutritionists do by exploring a health scientist and food nutrition course.
Strengthen your skills
Gain competence in important aspects of food and nutritional science and work towards your goals with these targeted study options.
Build your resume
Target your studies to your desired nutrition specialisation and build on your understanding.
Industry requirements
To work as a registered nutritionist in Australia, you will need a relevant tertiary qualification and professional experience in your field. Following this you can apply to the Nutrition Society of Australia for registration.
Finding Work
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your nutrition career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.
Employment Prospects
Nutritionists can expect rises in employment, reaching a peak in 2017.