What is a Bachelors in Nutrition & Fitness Online?

With growing concerns about obesity, diabetes, and the safety of food, there has been increased demand for nutrition experts who can work with the general public. Specialists who can advise and treat the growing senior population are also needed. Plus, more and more food industry businesses are seeking input from nutritionists and dietitians as they strive to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers. To break into this expanding, but competitive, field you may need a bachelors in nutrition & fitness online. You should also be prepared to meet license or certificate requirements for the state in which you plan to practice.

As a nutrition major, you will study the process by which the body transforms food into energy it can use. You will gain an in-depth understanding of various vitamins, nutrients, and food additives. You will also look at factors that affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients and study the special dietary needs of the elderly, people with specific health conditions, athletes, children, pregnant women, and other specific groups. Most undergraduate programs in nutrition also put emphasis on research. You will be expected to analyze and stay abreast of the latest nutrition-related studies.

A bachelors in nutrition & fitness online includes rigorous study of food science and related medical topics. Taking four years of science and math in high school will better prepare you for these courses, which include Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, and Physiology. Other suggested courses include Business, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Economics. You will probably take a series of classes on human nutrition that will cover basic theories of nutrition, the workings of the human digestive system, and how nutritional needs differ among people of various ages or with different health conditions.

You may also choose courses that will build knowledge and skills in a specialty area. After completing an online degree with your chosen concentration, you can pursue a career in a variety of positions, including: dietitian, who plans food and nutrition programs, treats illnesses, and promotes healthy eating habits; clinical dietitian, who provides nutritional services to patients in hospitals or other healthcare facilities; community dietitian who counsels clients on appropriate nutrition; or a nutritionist working in the private sector in areas such as food manufacturing, advertising, and marketing.

In addition to meeting state licensing requirements, you can receive the distinction of Registered Dietitian (RD). To earn the title, you will need to enroll in an academic program approved by the American Dietetic Association's Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. After you complete both your degree coursework and a supervised internship, you will need to pass an accreditation exam. Once becoming a Registered Dietitian, you will need to take at least 75 continuing education credit hours every five years to maintain your status.

Earning a bachelors degree in nutrition & fitness online will also prepare you for graduate-level study in the field. As a professional with a master degree in nutrition, you may have greater career options and higher earning potential.