How To Become an RD

2024 Master's Degree Required Beginning January 1, 2024

Students/interns will need to have a master's degree in order to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become a RDN.

Becoming a Registered Dietitian

The following information adapted from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics outlines the process for becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN):

Earn a graduate degree from an accredited dietetics program. A master's degree is required to be eligible for the credentialing exam. Our dietetic internship is combined with the Master's of Science in Human Nutrition for a 22-month combined MS/DI.
Get matched/admitted to and successfully complete a supervised practice requirement. Individuals must complete at least 1,000 hours through an ACEND-accredited supervised practice dietetic internship program (like ours).
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) dietetic registration exam (the credentialing exam for dietitians). Once you complete your degrees and supervised practice, you may schedule to take the exam to become credentialed as a registered dietitian (RD/RDN).
Gain licensure in your state of practice, if applicable. For licensing in Texas, visit Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
Maintain continuing education.

While state interpretations of statutes may vary, it is ACEND's considered opinion that the program meets the educational requirements for dietetics licensure and certification in all states. However, completing an ACEND accredited academic program alone does not qualify an individual for licensure or certification as a dietitian in any state. Individuals should review their state's licensing statutes and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice and examinations, needed to obtain a dietetics license. More information about state licensure and certification can be found at this link: Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).