Dietitian Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of jobs for registered dietitians and nutritionists will increase by 11% between 2018 and 2028; however, we believe that even more RDs will be needed, because of the on-going U.S. health crisis. Avoidable diseases and conditions such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease and diabetes are on the rise, but can be avoided if we have enough RDs who are willing and able to deliver the message and provide care in the communities where it is most needed.

• Data from CDR's workforce 2011 demand study workgroup indicate that there is only one RDN or NDTR for every 3,610 individuals in the U.S. population.
• Data about other professions from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2010 indicate that for each RDN or NDTR, there are 33 nurses, 3 pharmacists and 1 physician assistant.

So, if we don't have enough RDs to deal with the demand in all areas of practice, we will be left behind as other practitioners with far less education in nutrition and MNT step in to meet the needs of this country.