Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Requirements and Process

Efective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) requires a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a RDN.  CDR is the credentialing agency of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

CDR administers the national registration examination required to become a RDN.  CDR requires individuals to complete coursework and supervised practice in programs accredited by ACEND. Graduates who successfully complete all academic and supervised practice requirements of the MSNDCP will be eligible to sit for the CDR credentialing exam to become an RDN. Upon successful completion of the program, the Program Director will submit the Name/Address Verification Form for each graduate to the CDR. This submission initiates the process of verifying eligibility to take the registration examination.

State Licensure/Certification

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians, Registered (NDTRs) are required to be licensed or certified in some states. The program’s graduates should refer to their state’s licensure requirements, which are available on the CDR website (Commission on Dietetic Registration, to determine if this requirement applies in the state where the program resides.