While studying any food science degree at BYU-Idaho, you may wonder what the difference is between certain fields. For example, did you know there are two different kinds of nutritionists? You can study to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) or a general nutritionist! Here’s how to know which field is right for you, including the similarities and differences.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
What is it: RDNs are credentialed and medically trained professionals in nutrition and dietetics.
At BYU-Idaho: BYU-Idaho does not offer a dietetics program to become certified as an RDN. Instead, you can receive your associate’s degree at BYU-Idaho then transfer to a school that offers an undergraduate Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) or Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD). For more information, visit Become a Registered Dietitan Nutritionist (RDN) on BYU-Idaho's website.
Requirements:
- Complete required dietetics coursework
- Complete a master’s degree
- Complete an accredited supervised practice program
- Pass the national credentialing exam
- Continue with education to maintain credentials
Jobs:
- RDNs are trained and legally qualified to provide Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
- MNT involves assessing, diagnosing, and treating nutrition-related health conditions (like diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease).
Nutritionist
What it is: Someone who gives advice to others about general nutrition and dieting helps.
Requirements:
- Anyone with an interest in nutrition or is studying nutrition can call themselves a nutritionist
- No formal education, certification, or national exam required.
Jobs:
- Provide general nutrition advice for overall health and wellness
- Cannot give personalized medical nutrition therapy counseling unless they have the credentials or certifications.
What Will You Decide?
Below is a Venn diagram to show you the similarities and differences between a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and a nutritionist. Are you ready to decide which profession is the best fit for you?
Sources:
About RDNs and NDTRs, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, (2025).
Dietitian vs Nutritionist: Key Differences & Career Paths in 2025, NutritionED, (2025).
RDN vs. Nutritionist, Idaho State University, (2025).
Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, BYU-Idaho, (2025).