Dietetics Practitioners in Extension

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While looking through the newest edition of the Journal of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, I came across this article about Cooperative Extension and opportunities for dietitians.  I wasn't too familiar with Extension positions and was interested in learning more about it and thought maybe others would too so I decided to share.

The Cooperative Extension system is a nationwide noncredit educational network through more than 100 universities and is funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.  Extension programs cover agriculture, leadership development, 4-H youth development, natural resources, community and economic development and family and consumer sciences, which includes nutrition.  The role of Extension educators is to develop, implement, and evaluate nutrition education programs for a variety of audiences.

An RD credential is not required to be a Extension Nutrition Specialist.  Currently there are RDs working in Extension, but it is unknown how many.  The current education focus has shifted to obesity and diabetes prevention has increased the need for RDs in extension to implement programs that address this.

RDs may be able to find a challenging career in Extension that allows them to develop and implement nutrition education and intervention programs the promote health and nutrition.  So if you are interested in community nutrition this may be a position to keep in mind!

-KC

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