Cal Poly Pomona’s Online Master of Science in Dietetics prepares nutrition professionals and dietetic interns to advance their knowledge while building toward opportunities in clinical practice, community health, education, research, and leadership.
CPP identifies several career directions for graduates of the program, including clinical nutrition manager, public health nutritionist, food and nutrition program director, nutrition policy and research specialist, and nutrition faculty positions.
Clinical nutrition
Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities are among the settings where dietetics professionals may build their careers.
For professionals interested in clinical practice, graduate education can provide an opportunity to deepen their knowledge while preparing for greater responsibility in nutrition care and management.
Community and public health
Dietetics also reaches far beyond the walls of a hospital.
CPP identifies county health departments, nonprofit community health organizations, and food-access programs among the settings where graduates may work. Career paths can include public health nutrition and program leadership.
For professionals interested in improving nutrition at the community level, this creates opportunities to connect nutrition expertise with public service.
Education and research
Another path leads into education and research.
Graduates may pursue a nutrition faculty position at universities and community colleges or research specialist roles at academic medical centers and public health agencies.
Private practice
Some nutrition professionals eventually want to build a practice of their own.
CPP identifies nutrition counseling, medical nutrition therapy, and wellness coaching among the areas associated with a registered dietitian private practice.
That is part of the goal for Angela J., a clinical nutrition professional in CPP’s Online MS in Dietetics.
She chose the program for the support and flexibility it provides while balancing work, family, and graduate study. Her goal is to continue growing in clinical nutrition and eventually open a private practice as a registered dietitian.
There is no single destination for someone pursuing graduate education in dietetics. Clinical care, public health, research, education, program leadership, and private practice represent different ways nutrition professionals can put their expertise to work.
Interested in exploring where the degree could take you? Learn more about Cal Poly Pomona’s Online Master of Science in Dietetics and request information about the program.