Brookings Main Campus
Art, science, and management of food, nutrition, and wellness.
Dietetics is the education and practice of food, nutrition and wellness and offers a wide variety of jobs in the health promotion, wellness, nutrition care and foodservice administration areas. Registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) provide nutrition counseling and are pivotal in preventive health care and community nutrition programs. Additionally, a registered dietitian is essential to the total care of a patient in a healthcare facility, giving nutritional guidance and instruction. Students develop an understanding and competency in food, nutrition, wellness, and management and a background in the basic and behavioral sciences to apply the science of nutrition for the promotion of health and disease prevention. The employment opportunities are in health promotion and wellness programs, public health agencies, foodservice and food production industries, schools, universities, the armed services, hospitals, nursing homes, and state, national and international organizations.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in food and nutrition
- Lead a healthy lifestyle
- Like chemistry and biology
- Work well with people
- Have strong communication skills
Career Opportunities
- Clinical dietitian
- Community dietitian
- Health educator
- Management dietitian
- Independent consultant
Recent Employers
- Avera Health
- Sanford Health
- South Dakota State Extension
- Veterans Affairs Hospital
Suggested Certificates
Suggested Minors
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Clubs and Organizations
- Dietetics & Health Sciences Club
- HEROH – Helping Everyone Reach Optimal Health
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The Exploratory Studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the Exploratory Studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits, and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using the code: jacks. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.