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Family and Consumer Sciences

Steps to Becoming a Registered

Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

The following information is intended to give current and prospective students an idea of the multi-step process required to become a Registered Dietitian (RD)/Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes these two credentials synonymously. Professionals who have met the criteria outlined below earn the RD/RDN credential.  

  • Step 1: Didactic Coursework

    The DPD Program at Illinois State University provides you with didactic coursework and a DPD Verification Statement which is required by many supervised practice/experience ACEND-accredited programs (ex: Dietetic Internship). This becomes your first step to becoming an RDN.

  • Step 2: Minimum of a Master's Degree

    Next you complete a minimum of a master’s degree granted by a U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting agency or foreign equivalent, and course work accredited or approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). 

  • Step 3: Supervised Practice/Experience

    You must also compete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program such as a Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program, Graduate Program, or an Individualized Practice Pathway offered through an ACEND-accredited program. 

  • Step 4: National Registration Exam

     After the educational and supervised practice components, you must study, register for, take, and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s dietetic registration exam. For more information regarding the exam, refer to CDR’s website.

  • Step 5: State Licensure

    All states accept the RDN credential for state licensure purposes, but you may need to complete the licensure process to practice in your state. Many states have licensure laws for food and nutrition practitioners. Check here for your state requirements.

  • Step 6: Continuing Education

    Complete ongoing continuing education. After successfully passing the national exam and earning the credential, RDNs maintain ongoing professional development to stay current with research, recommendations, and best practices. 

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