Applied Nutrition vs Respiratory Therapist
Applied Nutrition vs Respiratory Therapist
Are you interested in a career in healthcare but unsure which path to take? Two popular options to consider are applied nutrition and respiratory therapy. Both fields offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in people's lives, but they have distinct differences. In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between applied nutrition and respiratory therapy, including their job descriptions, education and training requirements, and career outlook and salary.
Applied Nutrition vs Respiratory Therapist: Education and Training
The education and training requirements for applied nutritionists and respiratory therapists differ as well:
Applied Nutritionist:
- A bachelor's degree in nutrition or a related field is typically required to become an applied nutritionist.
- Some positions may require a master's degree or a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) certification.
- Applied nutritionists may also pursue additional certifications or specialized training in areas such as sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, or public health.
Respiratory Therapist:
- To become a respiratory therapist, one must complete an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy.
- Respiratory therapy programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
- After completing their education, respiratory therapists must pass a national certification exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
Applied Nutrition vs Respiratory Therapist: Career Outlook and Salary
Both applied nutrition and respiratory therapy offer promising career prospects:
Applied Nutrition:
- The demand for applied nutritionists is expected to grow as more people become aware of the importance of healthy eating habits.
- Applied nutritionists can find employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and private practice.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for dietitians and nutritionists was $61,270 in May 2020.
Respiratory Therapy:
- The demand for respiratory therapists is projected to grow due to an aging population and an increase in respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma.
- Respiratory therapists can work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home care settings.
- The BLS reports that the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $63,950 in May 2020.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a career path in healthcare can be a challenging decision, but understanding the differences between applied nutrition and respiratory therapy can help you make an informed choice. Both fields offer unique opportunities to make a positive impact on people's health and well-being. Whether you are passionate about nutrition or respiratory care, there are rewarding careers awaiting you in either field. Consider your interests, skills, and future goals when making your decision, and remember that both fields require dedication, ongoing learning, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Joanna Paragas is part of the Growth team at Dreambound. Her primary role involves creating various automation to streamline workflows and make tasks more efficient for the entire team. Beyond her professional endeavors, Joanna enjoys spending her free time playing with her dogs and enhancing her knowledge by enrolling in online courses.
