Dietetics is a science that deals with people, food and health. Dietitians work in a variety of settings and can function as a member of the health care team. As health professionals, dietitians are expected to present the credentials of a Registered (RD) and/or licensed Dietitian (LD).   The RD is a national credential and accepted as evidence for the LD in states with licensure.  The dietitian holding the RD is expected to maintain registration through continuing education.

To become an RD, the student must:

1.   Have a Bachelor's Degree granted by a U.S. regionally accredited college or university.

2.   Complete current minimum academic requirements for the didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) accredited or approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association.

3.   Complete an accredited supervised practice program such as a dietetic internship.

4.   Pass the national registration examination.

For more details on the NATIONAL REQUIREMENTS and a listing of all supervised practice programs:

Order the Directory of Dietetic Programs from the American Dietetic Association  or call 1-800-877-1600, ext. 5000.