Registered dietitian nutritionist (RDNs) are food and nutrition experts who have met the following criteria to earn the RDN credential:
- Complete a minimum of a bachelor's degree at a US regionally accredited university or college and course work approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) will require a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).
- Complete an ACEND-accredited or -approved supervised practice program at a hospital or medical center or combined with undergraduate or graduate studies. Typically, a supervised practice program will run six to twelve months in length.
- Pass a national written examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.
- Some RDNs hold additional certifications in specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric or renal nutrition, nutrition support and diabetes education. These certifications are awarded through CDR, the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and/or other medical and nutrition organizations and are recognized within the profession, but are not required.
- In addition to RDN credentialing, many states have regulatory laws for RDNs. Frequently these state requirements are met through the same education and training required to become an RDN.
For more information about state licensing requirements for dietitian nutritionists.
Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)'s Master's Degree Requirement
Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) will require a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). In addition, CDR requires that individuals complete supervised practice in a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). In most states, graduates also must obtain licensure or certification to practice as a RDN.
Graduates who currently successfully complete the ACEND-accredited UNR Dietetic Internship Program at the University of Nevada, Reno are eligible to take the CDR credentialing exam to become a RDN. After January 1, 2024, a master’s degree will also be required to be eligible to take the CDR credentialing exam.
For more information about educational pathways to become a RDN please click Routes to Meeting Eligibility Requirements for Registration Exam for Dietitians After 1/1/2024.
