About the RDN Credential

What are the requirements to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist?
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A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is a food and nutrition expert, credentialed through the Commission on Dietetic Registration.  All RDNs have met specific requirements, such as:

• Earned at least a bachelor’s degree with coursework approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics.  Required courses include human anatomy, nutrition science, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology and more.
• Fulfilled a yearlong accredited dietetic internship and met specific dietetic competencies.
• Passed a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
• Complete at least 75 continuing professional education units every 5 years to maintain registration.

What is the difference between an RDN and a nutritionist?

The RDN credential is a legally-protected title that can only be used by practitioners who are authorized by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.  On the other hand, not all nutritionists are RDNs because there is not a set requirement for the term “nutritionist”.  In many states, virtually anyone can call himself or herself a “nutritionist”, regardless of education or training.

How can working with an RDN benefit me?

RDNs are food experts and break down the science of nutrition into realistic, everyday solutions for healthy living.  When you are looking for scientifically-reliable nutrition information, you can rely on an RDN to deliver this.  RDNs are able to separate facts from fads and translate nutrition science into information that will help you achieve your desired health outcomes!