Introduction

Do you have a passion for health, food and helping people? A career in dietetics could be the right career choice for you. Becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist requires a science-heavy course load and many hours of patient care. There are opportunities to conduct research, work with children and even join the military. RDNs work in a variety of settings including clinical, business and management, private practice and culinary.

To become a registered dietitian nutritionist, a path of higher education is a must as well as a dietetic internship from an ACEND-accredited program, and passing the national registration examination. The pathway listed below is a common route many traditional students take, but it is not the only path to become an RDN.

Who is a Registered Dietitian (RD) ?

RDs are food and nutrition experts who have met the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s (CDR) criteria to earn the RD credential. RDs work in a wide variety of employment settings, including health care, business and industry, community/public health, education, research, government agencies and private practice. 

Registered Dietitian (RD) Career Overview

A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a trained nutrition professional who has met the strict educational and experiential standards set forth by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). Registered dietitians may work in a variety of settings, including (but not limited to) schools, long term care facilities, hospitals, community/public health facilities, corporate nutrition programs, the food and nutrition industry, sports nutrition, business, and research.

Registered Dietitian (RD) Job Description

The job description for a Registered Dietitian (RD) varies depending upon the setting in which the RD works. Generally, RDs advise and counsel others on food and nutrition. They may explain nutrition issues to clients, assess the dietary and health needs of clients, develop meal plans for clients, gauge the effects of these meal plans, promote nutrition through public speaking and community outreach programs, and keep abreast of the latest research in nutritional and food sciences. Specialties within the Registered Dietitian profession include:

• Clinical dietitians – these RDs are specially trained to provide medical nutrition therapy in settings such as hospitals and long term care facilities
• Community dietitians – these RDs primarily educate the public on food and nutrition issues and topics. They may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, public health clinics, and HMOs.
• Management dietitians – these RDs work in planning meal programs in food service settings, including hospitals, cafeterias and food corporations. Their duties may involve overseeing other dietitians and/or kitchen staff, buying food, and performing the business tasks of managing a dietary/meal program.

Registered Dietitian (RD) Skills Required

In order to be a good, effective Registered Dietitian, one should possess the following skills:

• Good decision making and judgment capabilities
• The ability to instruct others
• The ability to identify and solve complex problems
• Being socially perceptive; that is, aware of the reactions of others and understanding those reactions
• Good reading comprehension skills
• Good coordination skills and the ability to adjust one’s actions in relation to others’ actions
• Effective logic, reasoning and critical thinking skills
• Effective writing skills
• Effective speaking skills
• Active listening skills

How to Become a Registered Dietitian (RD)

Registered dietitian (RD) is a popular career choice for many people interested in health and wellness. An RD can serve many roles in a community. You could work in a hospital or other medical facility and provide nutritional care to patients. Or, you could focus on population-level nutrition and work with nonprofits, government entities or educational institutions. 

Professional variety is only one benefit of becoming an RD. The career path of an RD offers livable wages with a median salary of $63,090 and has an expected job growth of 11% from 2020 to 2030. However, becoming a registered dietitian isn’t as easy as knowing about a healthy diet. Dietetics is a highly regulated profession where training and higher education matter, especially since most states require a license/certification to practice, and in order to become licensed, a secondary degree is required. By 2024, a minimum of a graduate degree in a related field is required to sit for the Registration Examination for Dietitians Test by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR exam).

If you’re interested in becoming a registered dietitian, these are five steps you’ll need to complete:

•  Step 1: Earn an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree
•  Step 2: Complete a dietetic internship
•  Step 3: Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam
•  Step 4: Obtain a state license
•  Step 5: Maintain state license and registration

Step 1: Earn an Accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree

The first step to become a registered dietitian is to earn a degree in the area of nutrition and obtain a verification statement from an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited program. This is required in order to sit for the CDR exam. Currently, if an individual is interested in pursuing their RD, they may hold either a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited school; however, it is important to note that this will change in 2024. On January 1, 2024, a graduate degree will be the minimum requirement to sit for the CDR exam instead of a baccalaureate degree. 

If you graduate before 2024, you may pursue a bachelor’s degree in clinical nutrition, dietetics, public health nutrition, or foods and nutrition. Your courses will focus on evidence-based nutrition, nutritional therapy, community nutrition, applied food principles and food service systems. 

If you would like to pursue a master’s degree, you might consider an ACEND-accredited master’s in nutrition or a coordinated degree program, such as a master’s in public health/registered dietitian (MPH/RD). In your program application, be sure to include any specific background information or work history in nutrition that is required or that may qualify you for the next steps to become an RD.

Step 2: Complete a Dietetic Internship

You must obtain hands-on clinical experience through an internship after completing your nutrition program to become a registered dietician. This is true for individuals who have earned a master’s degree and not only those with bachelor’s degrees. 

You can go through a traditional Dietetic Internship (DI), a Coordinated Program (CP), or an Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISPP). Whatever the program, you must complete 1,200 hours under the supervision of a licensed professional. 

Dietitian Internship

According to ACEND, to apply for a Dietetic Internship, you will use the online dietetic internship centralized application services (DICAS). Almost all internships take advantage of this system, and you can use it to be matched with appropriate DI and CP placements nationwide. If you are interested in an ISPP, you must pursue it through other avenues. 

Internships range in duration from eight to 24 months. You may work on a part- or full-time basis. There also are online and distance internship options if you cannot complete a traditional one in person. 

You can choose an internship based on your interests and career goals. There are many programs that focus on clinical nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, pediatric nutrition, geriatric nutrition, food systems management, public health nutrition education and other areas. 

Coordinated Programs

Many prospective RDs earn a degree and then pursue an internship separately. There is also the option of applying to a Coordinated Program, according to ACEND, which provides the essential Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) coursework as well as supervised practice. You can use an accredited Coordinated Program to obtain the necessary education and training required for the exam. 

A Dietetic Internship combined with graduate coursework is not an official Coordinated Program, though Coordinated Programs can be designed at the graduate degree level. 

Individualized Supervised Practice Pathways (ISPP)

Another option is pursuing an ISPP, which is meant to provide supervised practice through ACEND-accredited dietetic programs. There are two different types of ISPPs, one for Didactic Program in Dietetics graduates and  one for doctoral degree holders.

• ISPP for Didactic Program in Dietetics Graduates  (DPD)

This option is for graduates who did not match with a dietetic internship but have a DPD verification statement. The DPD provides the required dietetics coursework leading to a bachelor’s or graduate degree. Graduates of the programs who are verified by the program director may apply for Dietetic Internships or ISPPs  to receive the supervised practice that is needed to be eligible to sit for the RD exam. 

• ISPP for Doctoral Degree Graduates

You also can apply for an ISPP without a DPD verification statement if you have a doctoral degree. However, those students must attend an ISPP that is approved to offer a track for individuals with a doctoral degree. 

You can look for ISPPs by reviewing accredited education programs through ACEND, but please note that eligibility for specific ISPPs will vary by program. 

Step 3: Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Exam

Passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam is the most crucial step to earn the RD credential and become a registered dietitian. Once you have completed your degree and internship requirements, you can become validated by the CDR and should then take the registered dietitian exam. Rules are very strict regarding RD exam eligibility requirements. Remember to take a close look at the student options scenarios with different backgrounds, and make sure you are qualified to sit for the exam.

There are more than 250 testing locations. The exam is two and a half hours long and consists of up to 145 questions. Under the current Registered Dietitian Exam specifications (PDF, 258 KB), which are valid through December 31, 2021, the test consists of:

• 25% principles of dietetics
• 40% nutrition care for individuals and groups
• 21% management of food and nutrition programs and services
• 14% foodservice systems

Step 4: Obtain a State License

The state where you wish to practice may require you to obtain a state license or certification before you can be employed. The CDR provides information on which states require additional licensure for registered dietitians. In some circumstances, you may be eligible for a license based on your degree, internship and exam result. Most states have their own state licenses, so it’s better to check and prepare in advance for the specific requirements of where you want to live and work. 

Step 5: Maintain State License and Registration

To maintain your credentials as an RD, you must complete 75 continuing education credits every five years, and one credit must be in ethics.

You are required to submit a learning plan and activity log within 120 days of completing your first activity. CDR offers a 120-day calculator to determine the deadline to submit your learning plan. You must pay an annual registration maintenance fee and maintain your MyCDR Page. This is your personal landing page, and your information should be up to date. 

Time to Complete Educational Requirements to Become A Registered Dietitian (RD)

It takes four to eight years or more to become a registered dietitian, depending on your career path and your state. It may include four years of undergraduate work, two years for a master’s degree program, one-plus year of an internship, months of completing the CDR exam, and extra time on the Coordinated Program and obtaining a license in your state if applicable. 

How to become a registered dietitian if you already have a degree

It depends on if it’s a bachelor’s or master’s degree you are holding. If you have a bachelor’s degree in required fields, you can complete a DPD program, receive a verification statement and move on to the next steps. If you are considering a master’s program, a Master of Public Health in nutrition is a strong path if you wish to enter or remain in the public health field and focus on population-level nutrition and health. 

A Day in the life of a dietician: what do dieticians do?

Essentially, dietitians help others make better choices regarding their nutrition and food intake. Dietitians are not necessarily in the weight-loss business and don’t focus on selling certain weight-loss programs. However, there is a focus on food, nutrition and helping people lose weight. They will often work with patients who have health struggles like diabetes or high blood pressure, and create a meal plan that will help improve their health. 

The role of a dietician can not be understated to many, who are often inundated with nutrition advice, fad diets, and confusing or conflicting studies. A dietician must be able to help people understand basic human nutritional needs and the choices they need to make to be healthy.  

Where do dieticians work?

While the role of dietitians is to counsel their patients on food and nutrition, the day-to-day job description will be different depending on their area of specialty and where they work. Dietitians can work in many settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, community facilities, schools and corporate businesses. They may work in many fields, as well, like sports nutrition, the food and nutrition industry and research. 

For instance, Clinical Dietitians are trained to give nutrition therapy to those in hospitals and other long-term care facilities. Community Dietitians work to educate those in their community on food and nutrition. This can include working in various government agencies, public clinics, and more. Those focused on sports dietetics will counsel athletes and active patients through their knowledge of sports medicine. 

What Is the Difference Between A Nutritionist And A Dietitian?

Many people believe that dietitians and nutritionists are interchangeable, but there are key differences between the two. While both professions deal with nutrition, one can only be designated a dietician if they pass the CDR exam and become registered. 

Dietitians are professionals who promote their patient’s health through medical nutrition therapy. They are able to work with those who suffer from diseases and can prescribe a diet plan to help manage their illness. Dieticians are heavily regulated and must meet specific professional requirements. They work to identify illnesses and other diseases and must be qualified to work in the diagnostics field.

Nutritionists are unable to treat those who are suffering from illnesses. They must work with healthy individuals who are seeking out services to improve their dietary intake and overall lifestyle. Nutritionists are not regulated by any laws and anyone can refer to themselves as a nutritionist. There are nutritionists who have many qualifications, but there are some who are self-taught, making it difficult for those seeking out nutritionists to know who is qualified to help and who is not.

Education Requirements

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The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) requires that students complete a college/university educational program in dietetics and/or nutrition that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND).  Educational programs may be in one of the following categories:

• Coordinated Program in Dietetics – This type of program combines bachelor degree classroom coursework with a required internship, all in one program.
• Didactic Program plus Dietetic Internship – If one chooses a Didactic Program, this provides only classroom coursework. After completion of the bachelor’s degree course requirement, one must complete a Dietetic Internship of at least 1200 hours.

Coursework must include the following subjects:

• Physiology and anatomy
• Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Computer science
• Sociology
• Business
• Economics
• Food and nutrition sciences
• Food service systems management

Dietetic internships are usually within a food and nutrition specialty area, including but not limited to:

• Medical nutrition therapy
• Clinical nutrition research
• Pediatric nutrition
• Community nutrition
• Geriatric nutrition

Licensure/Certification Qualifications

Before one can become a Registered Dietitian, he or she must complete the educational requirements above and pass the CDR’s Registration Examination for Dietitians. Once RD credentials have been earned, one must then fulfill the licensing/certification requirements of the state in which he or she plans to work. State laws regarding licensure/certification processes for Registered Dietitians may be found here. This involves applying for licensure/certification and paying the proper fees, and maintaining that licensure/certification through fulfilling a state’s continuing education requirements. The continuing education requirements of the CDR must also be fulfilled, as the RD credentials are renewed on a five-year cycle.

Job Duties of a Dietitian

Insurance often covers clients’ visits to a dietitian (RDN) if those visits are intended to treat a specific health condition. In fact, the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2020 provides Medicare Part B coverage for medical nutrition therapy provided by a dietitian for clients with:

• Obesity
• Cancer
• Prediabetes
• Celiac disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Malnutrition
• Dyslipidemia
• Hypertension
• Eating disorders
• Other diseases or conditions that cause unintentional weight loss

In addition to medical nutrition therapy, dietitians focus on prevention of health conditions through proper nutrition and education. Other conditions they may address in clients include bariatric surgery, kidney issues, and working with sports nutrition/optimal nutrition for athletes.

Types of Dietitians

There is a wide variety of types of dietitians, based upon where a dietitian works, the clients with whom they work, and their specialization. Generally, there are four accepted main domains of practice for dietitians, each of which carries its own specialized job duties and responsibilities:

• Clinical Dietitians – They usually work in an inpatient hospital/long-term-care facility or outpatient clinic. Duties include:
  • Detailing a client’s medical history and current status, including getting lab work and weight history
  • Assessing acute needs of clients and prioritizing life-threatening conditions
  • Providing nutrition education and counseling to people with special needs (i.e., cancer, recent surgery, chronic illness)
• Food service management Dietitian – Oversees production of nutritionally valued food meeting food safety guidelines for a large organization. May work in:
  • Schools
  • Military bases
• Community Dietitian- They design/implement programs aimed at populations, like those trying to prevent diabetes or learning to cook more healthily. Other duties include advocating for public policies with a special focus on nutrition, health and food issues.
• Research Dietitian- These dietitians work in research hospitals, institutions or organizations. They usually work as part of a research team carrying out nutrition-focused interventions.

Others Who Work Closely with a Dietitian

Other healthcare professionals who work closely with a dietitian include primary care practitioners, who may refer clients to dietitians; health coaches; nutrition coaches; fitness instructors; and nutritionists.

 

Registered Dietitian Schools Approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). 

Alabama

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)- This type of program offers undergraduate coursework and a supervised internship that fulfills both Alabama’s and the ACEND requirements to become a licensed, registered dietitian in Alabama:
  • The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
    • Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – These types of programs include undergraduate coursework leading to an undergraduate. The internship must be taken after the DPD is completed:
  • Auburn University, Auburn
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science
  • Samford University, Birmingham
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Oakwood University, Huntsville
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • University of Montevallo, Montevallo
    • Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD)
  • Alabama A&M University, Normal
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and General Dietetics
  • University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Tuskegee University, Tuskegee
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Alaska

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – CP Programs provide both undergraduate courses and internships to fulfill the CDR’s requirements for licensing as a registered dietitian in Alaska. Currently, no CP programs in dietetics are offered at this time.
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – DPD Programs offer undergraduate courses that lead to a bachelor’s degree. After completion of the DPD, you must still fulfill the internship requirement. DPD programs in Alaska are:
  • University of Alaska, Anchorage
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Arizona

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – These programs combine coursework and an internship and fulfill all of the CDR’s mandates to become a Registered Dietitian. Unfortunately, there are currently no CP programs in Arizona.
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – These programs provide coursework that leads to an undergraduate or graduate degree. Once the DPD is completed, you must still complete an internship. In Arizona, DPD programs include:
  • Arizona State University, Phoenix
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • University of Arizona, Tucson
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR) in Arizona:

• Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Chandler
  • Associate of Applied Science, Dietetic Technology
• Central Arizona College, Coolidge
  • Associate of Applied Science, Dietetic Technician
• Paradise Valley Community College, Phoenix
  • Associate of Applied Science, Dietetic Technology

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Arkansas

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – This program provides coursework in dietetics and a supervised internship.
  • Arkansas State University, Jonesboro
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – These programs provide coursework that will conclude with an undergraduate or graduate degree. The internship must be taken after completion of degree requirements.
  • Henderson State University, Arkadelphia
    • Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences with specialization in Dietetics
  • Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of Central Arkansas, Conway
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences – Evening Didactic Courses
  • Harding University, Search
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR) in Arkansas:

• Black River Technical College, Pocahontas
  • Associate of Applied Science in Dietetics

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California

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)- these programs combine educational coursework with experiential learning to fulfill the requirements of registration as a dietitian in California:
  • Loma Linda University, Loma Linda
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutrition & Dietetics
    • Master of Science, Nutrition & Dietetics
  • California State University, Los Angeles
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutritional Science
    • Master of Science, Nutritional Science
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – these programs result in an undergraduate or graduate degree, which must be followed by a separate experiential learning program:
  • University of California, Berkeley
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science: Dietetics
  • California State University, Chico
    • Bachelor of Science, General Dietetics
  • University of California, Davis
    • Bachelor of Science, Clinical Nutrition
  • California State University, Fresno
    • Bachelor of Science, Dietetics
  • California State University, Long Beach
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutrition and Dietetics
  • California State University, Los Angeles
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutritional Science
    • Master of Science, Nutritional Science
  • Pepperdine University, Malibu
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutritional Science
  • California State University, Northridge
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutrition and Dietetics
  • California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
    • Bachelor of Science, Foods and Nutrition, Dietetics
  • California State University, San Bernardino
    • Bachelor of Science, Nutrition and Food Services
  • Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego
    • Bachelor of Arts, Nutrition
  • San Diego State University, San Diego
    • Bachelor of Science, Foods and Nutrition
  • San Francisco State University, San Francisco
    • Bachelor of Science, Dietetics
  • San Jose State University, San Jose
    • Bachelor of Science, Dietetics
  • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
    • Bachelor of Science, Applied Nutrition

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Colorado

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)- This college/university education program pairs coursework in nutrition and dietary subjects with an internship:
  • Colorado State University, Fort Collins
    • Master of Science in Food Science and Nutrition
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – This college/university education program offers coursework leading to a degree (undergraduate or graduate); after which you must complete an internship separately:
  • University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
    • Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Nutrition Minor
  • Johnson & Wales University, Denver
    • Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition, Clinical/Dietetics Concentration
  • Metropolitan State University of Denver
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition-Dietetics
  • Colorado State University, Fort Collins
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science, Option in Dietetics
  • University of Northern Colorado, Greeley
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Connecticut

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)- A college or university degree program with courses and an internship in dietetics:
  • University of Connecticut, Storrs
    • Bachelor of Science in Allied Health, Dietetics
    • Master of Science in Allied Health, Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – A college or university degree program with courses in dietetics only (internship is taken after the DPD is completed):
  • University of Connecticut, Storrs
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science, Dietetics
  • University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of New Haven, West Haven
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) in Connecticut:

• Gateway Community College, New Haven
  • Associate of Science, Dietetic Technology
• Lincoln College of New England, Southington
  • Associate of Science, Dietetic Technician

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Delaware

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – CP programs fulfill the CDR’s educational and internship requirements. Currently, there are no CPs offered in Delaware.
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-DP programs fulfill the CDR’s educational requirement only, and students must complete an internship afterwards. In Delaware, they include:
  • Delaware State University, Dover
    • Bachelor of Science, Food and Nutritional Science
  • University of Delaware, Newark
    • Bachelor of Science, Dietetics

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District of Columbia

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – satisfy the CDR’s educational and internship prerequisites for registration. In DC, they include:
  • Howard University, Washington, DC
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-satisfy the CDR’s educational prerequisite only—you must still complete an internship afterwards. In DC, they include:
  • University of the District of Columbia, Washington, DC
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

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Florida

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – These programs fulfill the CDR’s requirements for both education and experience. In Florida, CPs are offered at:
  • Keiser University, Lakeland
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition
  • Florida International University, Miami
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-These programs fulfill the CDR’s requirements for education only. If you complete a DPD, you must still take an internship after. DPDs in Florida are found at:
  • University of Florida, Gainesville
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • University of North Florida, Jacksonville
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Florida International University, Miami
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition
  • Florida State University, Tallahassee
    • Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition Science

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) in Florida:

• Florida State College at Jacksonville
  • Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology, Culinary Dietetic Option
• Hillsborough Community College, Tampa
  • Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology

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Georgia

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – A CP includes coursework and an internship, fulfilling the CDR’s requirement for education and experience. Georgia CPs are:
  • Georgia State University, Atlanta
    • Master of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-A DPD provides coursework required by the CDR, but you must still fulfill the experience requirement after. DPDs in Georgia are:
  • University of Georgia, Athens
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Georgia State University, Athens
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley
    • Bachelor of Science in Foods and Nutrition
  • Life University, Marietta
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Georgia Southern University, Statesboro
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Hawaii

• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-A Didactic Program in Dietetics offers coursework that fulfills the educational requirement of the CDR and Hawaii. After completion of coursework in food, nutrition and dietetics, you must still take an internship to fulfill the experience requirements. There is currently one DPD in Hawaii:
  • University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu
    • Bachelor of Science, Dietetics

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Idaho

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – This program includes both education and experience, fulfilling the entire CDR requirement. In Idaho, CPs include:
  • University of Idaho, Coeur D’Alene
    • Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-This program offers solely coursework, which means the internship portion of the CDR requirement must be satisfied after the DPD. In Idaho, DPDs include:
  • Idaho State University, Pocatello
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Illinois

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – These educational programs may be at the undergraduate or graduate level, and include all education and experience required by the CDR and the State of Illinois. They include:
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Coordinated Program
    • Master of Science in Nutrition, Coordinated Program
  • Dominican University, River Forest
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-These educational programs provide the coursework required by the CDR, not the experience. They may be undergraduate or graduate, and include:
  • Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Eastern Illinois University, Charleston
    • Bachelor of Science in Family & Consumer Sciences: Dietetics Option
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science
  • Northern Illinois University, DeKalb
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Benedictine University, Lisle
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Western Illinois University, Macomb
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Illinois State University, Normal
    • Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition & Dietetics
  • Bradley University, Peoria
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Dominican University, River Forest
    • Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Dietetics
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Indiana

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Offer coursework and experience, and may be undergraduate or graduate:
  • Indiana State University, Terre Haute
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
    • Master of Science in Dietetics
  • Purdue University, West Lafayette
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)-Offer only coursework, at the undergraduate or graduate level (internship must be completed separately):
  • Indiana University, Bloomington
    • Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Science: Dietetics
  • University of Southern Indiana, Evansville
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Ball State University, Muncie
    • Bachelor of Arts in Nutrition and Dietetics
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Purdue University, West Lafayette
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Iowa

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Combines dietary courses and an internship at the graduate or undergraduate levels. As of August 2013, there are no CPs in Iowa.
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Provide dietary courses at the graduate or undergraduate level:
  • Iowa State University, Ames
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Kansas

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Coursework combined with an internship fulfills the CDR requirement for dietary education:
  • Kansas State University, Manhattan
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Coursework only:
  • Kansas State University, Manhattan
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Kentucky

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – A CP combines dietitian coursework with an internship, fulfilling the CDR’s requirement for registration:
  • University of Kentucky, Lexington
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – A DPD includes just the coursework required by the CDR for registration. You must still complete an internship after:
  • Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green
    • Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management and Dietetics, Nutrition and Dietetics Concentration
  • University of Kentucky, Lexington
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Murray State University, Murray
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond
    • Bachelor of Science in General Dietetics

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Louisiana

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Includes all education and experience necessary to qualify to take the CDR’s Registered Dietitian nationwide exam. As of August 2013, there are no CPs in the state of Louisiana.
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Includes just the educational coursework necessary to take the CDR’s Registered Dietitian nationwide exam. You must still fulfill the experience requirement after completion of the DPD. In Louisiana, DPDs include:
  • Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences, concentration in Dietetics
  • Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge
    • Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences, concentration in Dietetics
  • University of Louisiana at Lafayette
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • McNeese State University, Lake Charles
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science, concentration in Dietetics
  • Louisiana Tech University, Ruston
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Nicholls State University, Thibodaux
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) in Louisiana:

• Delgado Community College, New Orleans
  • Associate of Applied Science in Dietetic Technology

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Maine

• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- These college or university programs just contain coursework, not an internship, required by the CDR and Maine. An internship must be completed after the DPD is finished. DPDs in Maine include:
  • University of Maine, Orono
    • Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition, concentration in Human Nutrition and Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) in Maine:

• Southern Maine Community College, South Portland
  • Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology

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Maryland

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)- offers both undergraduate and graduate level dietitian courses and a supervised practice to be eligible to become a Registered Dietitian (RD):
  • Johns Hopkins University/Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore
    • Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – offers courses that lead to an undergraduate or graduate degree. Students must then apply for internship separately once coursework is completed:
  • Morgan State University, Baltimore
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • University of Maryland College Park, College Park
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology: Dietetics/Nutrition

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Massachusetts

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – CPs offer both the college coursework and supervised experience you need under the rules of the CDR for registration and of Massachusetts for licensing as a dietitian. CPs in Massachusetts are:
  • Framingham State University, Framingham
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- DPDs offer just the college coursework necessary to become licensed and registered as a dietitian in Massachusetts. If you choose a DPD, you must still fulfill the internship requirement after. DPDs in Massachusetts are:
  • University of Massachusetts, Amherst
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
  • Boston University/Sargent College, Boston
    • Master of Science in Nutrition
  • Simmons College, Boston
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Framingham State University, Framingham
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) in Massachusetts:

• Laboure College, Boston
  • Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Technology

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Michigan

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – The courses and experience are offered in CPs in Michigan, including:
  • Wayne State University, Detroit
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
    • Master of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Only the courses are offered in DPDs in Michigan (experience must be completed later):
  • University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
    • Master of Public Health: Human Nutrition
    • Master of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Andrews University, Berrien Springs
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Michigan State University, East Lansing
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Madonna University, Livonia
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant
    • Bachelor of Arts in Dietetics
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Minnesota

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Provides both classes and an internship, at the undergraduate or graduate level:
  • University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
    • Master’s Degree in Public Health Nutrition
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Provides only classes at the undergraduate or graduate level, internship is taken later:
  • Minnesota State University, Mankato
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Dietetics
  • Concordia College, Moorhead
    • Bachelor of Arts Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University, Saint Joseph
    • Bachelor of Arts Degree in Nutrition, concentration in Dietetics
  • St. Catherine University, Saint Paul
    • Bachelor of Arts Degree in Dietetics
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Dietetics
  • University of Minnesota, Saint Paul
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Dietetics

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Mississippi

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Full-service programs providing both education and experience:
  • Delta State University, Cleveland
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of Mississippi, University
    • Master of Science in Food and Nutrition Services with emphasis in Nutrition Services
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Education only (experience must be fulfilled later):
  • Alcorn State University, Alcorn State
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Mississippi State University,Starkville
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • University of Mississippi, University
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition

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Missouri

• Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – Coursework in nutrition and dietetics is combined with a supervised experience internship:
  • University of Missouri- Columbia
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)- Offers just coursework in nutrition and dietetics (must take internship after completion of the DPD):
  • Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences – Dietetics
  • Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • College of the Ozarks, Point Lookout
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Missouri State University, Springfield
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Fontbonne University, St. Louis
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
  • Saint Louis University, Saint Louis
    • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg
    • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

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Montana

• Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – A DPD offers just the educational courses in nutrition and dietetics necessary for registration through the CDR. You must still complete a dietetic internship (DI) after finishing your DPD. There is one DPD offered in the state of Montana to become a registered dietitian:
  • Montana State University, Bozeman
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Food and Nutrition, Option in Dietetics

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Nebraska

Within Nebraska, the only ACEND-accredited program is through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, which offers a Bachelor of Science degree.

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New Hampshire

• University of New Hampshire, Durham
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Keene State College, Keene
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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New Jersey

• Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Scotch Plains
  • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis in community and public health nutrition education

Didactic Programs (DP)

• Montclair State University, Montclair
  • Bachelor of Science
• College of Saint Elizabeth, Morristown
  • Bachelor of Science, Master of Science degrees
• Rutgers University, New Brunswick
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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New Mexico

• University of New Mexico, Albuquerque
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• New Mexico State University, Las Cruces
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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New York

• Buffalo State – SUNY, Buffalo
  • Bachelor of Science
• D’Youville College, Buffalo
  • Master of Science with an emphasis in advanced nutrition practice
• Pace University, Pleasantville
  • Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
• Utica College
  • Bachelor of Science

Didactic Programs (DP)

• Herbert H. Lehman College, Bronx
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Brooklyn College, Brooklyn
  • Bachelor of Science
• Long Island University, Brookville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Buffalo State – SUNY, Buffalo
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Queens College – CUNY, Flushing
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Cornell University – Ithaca, Ithaca
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Hunter College – CUNY, New York City
  • Master of Science degree
• New York University, New York City
  • Bachelor of Science
• State University of New York at Oneonta, Oneonta
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Plattsburgh State University of New York, Plattsburgh
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Syracuse University, Syracuse
  • Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science degrees
• The Sage Colleges, Troy
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Nevada

• University of Nevada, Las Vegas
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Nevada, Reno
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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North Carolina

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill
  • MPH with an emphasis on clinical nutrition and public health nutrition

Didactic Programs (DP) in Dietetics in North Carolina

• Appalachian State University, Boone
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Western Carolina University, Cullowhee
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• North Carolina Central University, Durham
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• East Carolina University, Greenville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Meredith College, Raleigh
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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North Dakota

• North Dakota State University, Fargo
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in gerontology
• University of North Dakota, Grand Forks
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in dietetic practice in rural communities

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Ohio

• The University of Akron, Akron
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Ohio State University, Columbus
  • Bachelor of Science, Master of Science degree
• Youngstown State University, Youngstown
  • Bachelor of Science degree

Didactic Programs (DP)

• The University of Akron, Akron
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Ashland University, Ashland
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Ohio University, Athens
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Bluffton University, Bluffton
  • Bachelor of Arts degree
• Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland
  • Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science degrees
• Ohio State University, Columbus
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Dayton, Dayton
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Kent State University, Kent
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Miami University, Oxford
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Youngstown State University, Youngstown
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Oklahoma

• University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
  • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis on nutrition-focused outcomes

Didactic Programs (DP)

• University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City
  • Master of Arts degree
• Oklahoma State University, Stillwater
  • Bachelor of Science
• Northeastern State University, Tahlequah
  • Bachelor of Science

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Oregon

There is one ACEND-accredited education program located at Oregon State University in Corvallis, which offers a Bachelor of Science degree.

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Pennsylvania

• Seton Hill University, Greensburg
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in entrepreneurial approaches to dietetics practice
• La Salle University, Philadelphia
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in urban health
• University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh
  • Master of Science with an emphasis in nutrition therapy
• Marywood University, Scranton
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in health promotion and wellness

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Rhode Island

• University of Rhode Island, Kingston
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Johnson & Wales University, Providence
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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South Carolina

• Clemson University, Clemson
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• South Carolina State University, Orangeburg
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Winthrop University, Rock Hill
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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South Dakota

• South Dakota State University, Brookings
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Tennessee

• University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Tennessee Theological University, Cookeville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Carson-Newman College, Jefferson City
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• East Tennessee State University, Johnson City
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Knoxville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• The University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• The University of Memphis, Memphis
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Lipscomb University, Nashville
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Texas

• The University of Texas at Austin, Austin
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in adult nutritional health and the nutritional care of children
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
  • Master of Science with an emphasis in nutrition therapy
• The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in community nutrition with an Hispanic emphasis
• Texas Christian University, Fort Worth
  • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis in nutrition education
• University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio
  • Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Dietetics with an emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention and treatment

Didactic Programs in Dietetics

• Abilene Christian University, Abilene
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• The University of Texas at Austin, Austin
  • Bachelor of Science
• Lamar University, Beaumont
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas A&M University, College Station
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas Woman’s University, Denton
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas Christian University, Fort Worth
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas Southern University, Houston
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Houston, Houston
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Sam Houston State University, Huntsville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas A&M University – Kingsville, Kingsville
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas Tech University, Lubbock
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of the Incarnate World, San Antonio
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Texas State University – San Marcos, San Marcos
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Baylor University, Waco
  • Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science degrees

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Utah

• Utah State University, Logan
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• University of Utah, Salt Lake City
  • Master of Science degree

Didactic Programs in Utah

• Utah State University, Logan
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Brigham Young University, Provo
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Vermont

The University of Vermont, Burlington offers both a CP (MSD with an emphasis on community health and nutrition) and a DP (Bachelor of Science degree).

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Virginia

• Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• James Madison University, Harrisonburg
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Norfolk State University, Norfolk
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Virginia State University, Petersburg
  • Bachelor of Science degree
• Radford University, Radford
  • Bachelor of Science

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Washington

• University of Washington, Seattle
  • MPH, MS, PhD degrees with an emphasis on clinical, public health
• Washington State University – Spokane, Spokane
  • MS degree with an emphasis on integrated exercise and nutrition

Didactic Programs in Dietetics

• Central Washington University, Ellensburg
  • Bachelor in Science degree
• Bastyr University, Kenmore
  • Bachelor in Science and Master of Science degrees
• Seattle Pacific University, Seattle
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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West Virginia

• Marshall University, Huntington
  • Bachelor’s degree
• West Virginia University, Morgantown
  • Bachelor of Science degree

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Wisconsin

• Viterbo University, LaCrosse
  • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis on community nutrition
• Mount Mary College, Milwaukee
  • Bachelor of Science with an emphasis on health promotion/disease prevention

Didactic Programs in Dietetics

• University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay
  • Bachelor of Science
• University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison
  • Bachelor of Science
• University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie
  • Bachelor of Science
• University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Stevens Point
  • Bachelor of Science

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Wyoming

• University of Wyoming, Laramie
  • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

Don’t forget:

If you plan to run your own business, you’ll have to be knowledgeable about more than just nutrition. Running a business requires administrative tasks, such as bookkeeping and medical billing. Another aspect of the job, especially in the beginning, is marketing. Getting the word out is crucial to a thriving business. As time goes on, you’ll ideally build a strong reputation in your community and receive word-of-mouth referrals.

Some RDs and nutritionists delegate business responsibilities to other employees so they can focus their attention on growing the company.