Choosing a career path is one of the most important decisions students make, and for those passionate about food, health, and wellness, dietetics can be a rewarding and impactful profession. Youngstown State University (YSU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Applied Science (BSAS) in Dietetics, providing students with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to pursue diverse career options in nutrition and dietetics.
Dietetics is the science of how food and nutrition affect human health. It focuses on the role of food in the prevention and treatment of diseases, promoting overall well-being, and guiding individuals towards healthier lifestyles. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and dietetic professionals are vital members of healthcare teams, working to assess, plan, and implement nutritional programs that improve patient health.
Graduates from YSU’s BSAS in Dietetics program are well-prepared for a variety of careers that can impact the health of individuals, communities, and populations. Here are some of the key career paths you can pursue:
One of the most common career paths for dietetics graduates is working in clinical settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, or rehabilitation centers. Clinical dietitians work directly with patients to assess their nutritional needs, develop personalized meal plans, and monitor their progress. These professionals play a critical role in managing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and malnutrition.
Community nutritionists work in public health settings, promoting healthy eating habits and educating groups of people, especially underserved populations. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community health programs, where they develop initiatives to improve nutrition awareness, reduce hunger, and address food security.
Many dietetics graduates find rewarding careers in food service management. This role involves overseeing the operation of food service facilities in schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities, or corporate settings. A food service manager ensures that meals meet nutritional guidelines and are prepared safely and efficiently. This career combines nutrition knowledge with leadership and business management skills.
With the growing focus on employee health and wellness, corporations are increasingly turning to nutrition experts to help improve the well-being of their workforce. As a corporate wellness consultant, you might develop workplace wellness programs, offer nutritional counseling, and design health-promotion strategies that boost productivity and reduce healthcare costs for employers.
Sports nutrition is a growing field where dietitians help athletes optimize their performance through proper nutrition. Sports nutritionists work with amateur, collegiate, and professional athletes to create meal plans, monitor hydration, and supplement diets to enhance athletic performance and recovery. YSU’s program offers a solid foundation for those interested in working within the exciting world of sports and athletics.
Many dietitians choose to start their own private practice or consulting business. In this role, you can offer personalized nutrition counseling to individuals or groups, work with local gyms or wellness centers, or consult for restaurants and food companies. A career in private practice offers flexibility and the opportunity to be your own boss.
If you’re passionate about advancing the science of nutrition, a career in research or academia may be right for you. Dietitians in this field work in universities, research institutes, or healthcare facilities, conducting studies on nutrition, food science, and diet-related diseases. They may also teach the next generation of dietitians, shaping the future of the profession.
YSU’s dietetics program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), preparing students to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). After completing your degree, you must follow these steps to become an RDN:
Upon earning the RDN credential, you’ll be qualified to work in a variety of settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools, research institutions, and corporate environments.
YSU offers a robust and supportive environment for students pursuing a degree in dietetics. With access to modern facilities, hands-on learning experiences, and expert faculty, you’ll gain both the theoretical and practical skills needed to excel in this field. The program also prepares you for the RDN exam, increasing your chances of becoming a licensed dietitian and expanding your career prospects.
In addition, YSU is committed to providing opportunities for students to network with professionals, gain experience through internships, and engage in community outreach programs, all of which contribute to a well-rounded education.
The demand for qualified dietitians and nutrition professionals continues to grow as more people seek to improve their health through diet. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. This growing demand makes a degree in dietetics a smart investment for your future.
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Tuition and fees may vary by major, college, area of study or based on your location. The university reserves the right to assess fees for special services and programs applicable to students. First-time International undergraduate students’ tuition rate is established based on first enrollment and remains unchanged for four consecutive years. Graduate students should plan for a yearly tuition increase of approximately 5%.
For a complete list of additional fees and detailed tuition information please visit the University Bursar website here.
Cost of the most popular room and meal plan combination; Your cost will depend on the plans you select. Costs in the box cover the most popular room and meal plan combination (on-campus); If you choose to live off-campus, the estimated cost of room and meals will be around $12,000 based on 12 months.
Based on average books & supply costs
Health insurance is required for international students.
Applicants must have graduated from high school or have successfully completed the General Education Development (GED) test to be considered for admission. Freshman applicants applying for admission to Youngstown State University must submit a high school transcript or GED transcript. Submission of American College Test (ACT) or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores is optional. Please note: some majors require test scores to be admitted into the program.
Applicants must have a cumulative weighted high school grade point average of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher, a core unweighted grade point average* of 2.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher and have an ACT composite score of 17 or higher or a SAT composite score of 920 or higher (evidence-based writing and reading and math) to be admitted unconditionally. (*Core gpa is calculated based on grades earned in the following courses – English, mathematics, science, social science and foreign language, if applicable, from 9th through 12th grade).
Fall 2024
application deadline is
August 1, 2024
