To obtain the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential, students need to complete the following requirements:

Academic Training and Supervised Experiential Learning
As of January 1, 2024, all students will need a minimum of a master’s degree to obtain the RDN credential. This program provides the master’s coursework and 1024 hours of supervised experiential learning to meet the RDN credentialing requirements. Program graduates are eligible to take the credentialing exam to become RDNs upon program completion.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Exam
Upon completion of the academic and supervised experiential learning requirements, students are eligible to take the national registration exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

After successful completion of this exam, students receive the professional RDN credential and need to meet continuing education requirements to maintain their registration status. 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: State Licensure