How to Become an RD/RDN

Dietetics is the science and art of applying the principles of food and nutrition to health. It’s a vital, growing profession with many career possibilities. Whichever option you choose, you’ll share your knowledge of food and nutrition to help people make healthful food choices.

The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND®) is the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ accrediting agency for education programs preparing students for careers as registered dietitians/dietitian nutritionists or dietetic technicians, registered.  Visit ACEND’s website.

There are currently three accredited routes to becoming an RD/RDN and you can search the Program Directory for locations.

  • Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD)
    • Graduate-level programs that combine coursework and at least 1000 hours of supervised practice for RDN eligibility (combined program).
  • Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) PLUS Dietetic Internship (DI)
    • A bachelor or graduate-level program consisting of coursework only, which must be completed before the DI required for RD/RDN eligibility.
    • The DI is an accredited program that consists of supervised practice only, which must be completed after completing a DPD. At least 1000 hours of supervised practice must be completed.
  • Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (GP): Formerly called Future Education Model programs
    • Graduate-level, competency-based dietitian nutritionist program that integrates coursework and at least 1,000 hours of experiential learning for RD/RDN eligibility.

Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)

  • Dietetic Technician Programs (DT) offer an associate’s degree that consists of coursework and supervised practice for DTR eligibility.

After successful completion of either a CPD, DPD/DI or GP, students are eligible to apply to take the exam to become an RD/RDN.  Those completing a Dietetic Technician Program are eligible to take the exam to become a DTR.  The Commission on Dietetic Registration is the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Visit the CDR website to learn more about the RD/RDN and DTR credentials, the examinations to become registered, and more.