South Carolina is home to a variety of classic southern cuisine. From a traditional lowcountry boil to a savory bowl of fish and grits, the state is well-known for its seafood dishes. South Carolina’s unique culinary identity has roots in its geographical location on the coast. However, the state is also known for having high rates of obesity, making it an important place for registered dietitians to work.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reports that two in three adults and one in three children in the state are affected by obesity each year. Additionally, the economic costs of obesity are estimated to reach $8.5 billion or more each year. If you want to be part of a healthier future for South Carolina, you must fulfill the requirements outlined by the American Dietetic Association (ADA).
Requirements to Become a Dietitian in South Carolina
Basic Requirements
- Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Age: 18 years of age or older.
- Licensure: State specific licensure is not necessary. Candidates must only satisfy the ADA requirements in order to work as a registered dietitian in South Carolina.
- Degree: A bachelor’s degree must be earned from an institution approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
- Experience: Completion of an approved pre-professional practice program in a healthcare facility, food service corporation or community agency, or as part of undergraduate/graduate education.
- Examination: Applicants are required to pass an exam from the Commission of Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Credits: Continuing Education credits must be completed according to ADA requirements.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant.
Additional Requirements
- Background Check: Aspiring South Carolina dietitians must undergo a criminal background check before receiving their licensure.
- Continuing Education: Registered dietitians must provide evidence of continuing education in order to renew a license.
Application Process in South Carolina
- Licensure: Applications are submitted to the South Carolina Panel for Dietetics. An initial fee of $175 should accompany your application. Subsequently, a $100 license renewal fee is due every other year after certification. The initial application fee should also include all documents that indicate you have completed the necessary requirements. Following approval, you may work under the title of a registered dietitian in South Carolina.
Degrees Related to Dietitians
Those interested in becoming a registered dietitian can pursue several different degrees. The options include dietetics, food management, nutrition science and food science.
Major Cities in South Carolina
- At 133,358 residents, Columbia is the largest city and capital of South Carolina.
- The historic city of Charleston is the second most populous city in the state with 127,999 residents.
- North Charleston is third in terms of population with 104,054 people.
What Does a Nutritionist Do in South Carolina?
- Nutritionists will typically explain nutrition and how it can help a client based on their individual health and diet. This includes the development and assessment of meal plans and their effect on a client.
- Nutritionists often participate in group talks about the correlation between diet, nutrition and eating habits and specific diseases.
- A nutritionist will also stay up-to-date with the latest nutritional science research.
Related Careers
Dietetic technicians are highly related to registered dietitians. They work on the provision of nutritional programs and food service under the supervision of a dietitian. Nutritionists also share similar roles with dietitians, including planning and conducting food programs for the public.
Employment Numbers in South Carolina
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 810 registered dietitians were working in South Carolina as of 2015.
Salary Ranges in South Carolina
Dietitians in South Carolina can expect an annual mean wage of $47,080.
South Carolina Dietitian Links
South Carolina Panel for Dietetics
Commission on Dietetic Registration
Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Information
Nutritionist and Dietitian Programs in South Carolina
Nutritionist and Dietitian Programs in South Carolina
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. Qualified nutritionists and dietitians often pursue a bachelor’s degree before attempting certification. Though both deal exclusively with nutrition, food, and dietary choices, nutrionists and dietitians do have different roles. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!