To become a registered dietitian in Arkansas, you need a graduate degree (master’s or higher) required for the RD/RDN exam as of January 1, 2024, ACEND-accredited supervised practice (minimum 1,000 hours; many programs structure around 1,000-1,200 hours), pass the CDR exam, and obtain state licensure through the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board. The process typically takes 5-6 years, and RDs in Arkansas earn an average salary of $66,660 (May 2024 OEWS).
Arkansas offers clear pathways for aspiring nutrition professionals to become registered dietitians. With growing healthcare needs and increasing awareness of nutrition’s role in disease prevention, the demand for qualified RDs continues to grow throughout the state. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or considering a career change, becoming a registered dietitian in Arkansas requires completing specific education, experience, and licensing requirements.
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, there were 957 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) practicing in Arkansas as of June 2, 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nutritionists and dietitians in Arkansas earned an average salary of $66,660 (May 2024 OEWS), with opportunities in hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, community health organizations, and private practice.
This comprehensive guide walks you through each step of becoming a licensed registered dietitian in Arkansas, from selecting an accredited program to maintaining your professional credentials.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Arkansas
- Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Arkansas
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Apply for State Licensure as a Registered Dietitian in Arkansas
- Maintain Your Arkansas License and Specialty Certifications
- Explore Career Opportunities for Registered Dietitians in Arkansas
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Arkansas
Arkansas requires CDR registration (RD/RDN) for licensure. As of January 1, 2024, CDR eligibility requires a graduate degree, along with ACEND-accredited coursework and supervised practice. This means you must complete your education through programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), which ensures programs meet CDR standards.
The graduate degree requirement represents a significant shift in the education of dietitians. Most students now pursue a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics followed by a master’s degree, though some programs offer combined pathways that integrate both levels of education.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
ACEND-Accredited Pathways in Arkansas
Arkansas offers several educational routes to fulfill your requirements for CDR registration:
Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP) – These integrated programs combine graduate-level academic coursework with ACEND-accredited supervised practice (minimum 1,000 hours; competency-based, program-specific). Students complete both their degree and supervised practice requirements in one seamless track.
Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) – These programs provide comprehensive coursework in nutrition and dietetics at the undergraduate or graduate level. After completing your bachelor’s and master’s degrees through a DPD, you must separately apply to and complete supervised practice hours through a dietetic internship or graduate program with integrated practice.
Graduate Programs with Integrated Supervised Practice – These master’s programs combine graduate coursework with ACEND-accredited supervised practice, allowing you to fulfill both the degree and supervised practice requirements simultaneously.
Arkansas ACEND-Accredited Programs
| Institution | Program Type | Degree Offered | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Coordinated Program (CP) – ACEND-accredited | Bachelor of Science in Dietetics | Jonesboro |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Didactic Program (DPD) – ACEND-accredited | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics | Arkadelphia |
| University of Central Arkansas | Didactic Program (DPD) – ACEND-accredited | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition | Conway |
| University of Arkansas at Fayetteville | Didactic Program (DPD) – ACEND-accredited | Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics | Fayetteville |
| Harding University | Didactic Program (DPD) – ACEND-accredited | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics | Searcy |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | MS + DI Combined Program – ACEND-accredited | Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition with Dietetic Internship | Little Rock |
Alternative Path: Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR)
If you’re interested in a nutrition career with a shorter educational pathway, consider the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) credential. This pathway requires completing an ACEND-accredited associate degree program that combines coursework with supervised practice hours.
To verify current ACEND-accredited NDTR programs in Arkansas, search the ACEND Accredited Programs Directory. NDTRs work under the supervision of registered dietitians and often manage food service, conduct nutrition screenings, and provide client education. After completing NDTR education, you must pass the CDR Registration Examination for Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians.
Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Arkansas
After earning your bachelor’s degree through a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), you need to complete ACEND-accredited supervised practice experience. A dietetic internship provides the hands-on experience required for CDR registration and licensure in Arkansas.
Important: If you completed a Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP) or a graduate program with integrated supervised practice (such as UAMS’s MS + DI), you’ve already fulfilled your supervised practice hours and can skip this step.
Dietetic Internship Requirements
All dietetic internships must be accredited by ACEND and provide a minimum of 1,000 hours (competency-based; program-specific) of supervised practice experience. Many programs are structured around 1,000-1,200 hours in various dietetics settings, including clinical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, food service management, and health promotion.
Arkansas ACEND-Accredited Dietetic Internships
| Institution | Program Length | Format | Emphasis Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Arkansas, Conway | 15 months | Full-time, non-degree program | Community Nutrition |
| University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock | 10 months | Full-time, standalone, or combined with MS | Medical Nutrition Therapy and Management in Dietetic Practice |
How to Secure a Dietetic Internship
Dietetic internships are competitive. Most programs participate in a national computer matching process where you rank your preferred programs and programs rank applicants. Strong academic performance, relevant volunteer experience, and compelling application essays significantly improve your chances of placement.
Plan to apply during your final year of studies. Application processes and deadlines vary by program, so it is essential to research individual program requirements and timelines early. Visit the ACEND website for current application information and program directories.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
After completing your graduate degree and ACEND-accredited supervised practice, you’re ready to take the CDR Registration Examination for registered dietitians. Passing this computerized exam is required for both CDR registration and Arkansas state licensure.
CDR Exam Eligibility and Registration
Once you’ve fulfilled your degree and supervised practice requirements, you’ll receive an email from CDR’s testing service confirming your eligibility. You must take the exam within one year of becoming eligible.
To register for the exam:
- Create an online account with CDR
- Submit your exam application
- Pay the exam fee (see CDR for current fee)
- Schedule your exam date and location through Pearson VUE
Arkansas CDR Exam Testing Locations
The CDR exam is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Arkansas. Schedule your exam and find the nearest testing location using the Pearson VUE test center locator. Bring your scheduling confirmation email and a current photo ID to your exam appointment.
CDR Exam Format and Content
The computerized exam includes 125 to 145 multiple-choice questions (variable-length format) that you must complete in 2.5 hours. You need to answer at least 125 questions for your exam to be scored. The exam doesn’t allow you to skip questions or return to change previous answers.
| Domain | Percentage | Content Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Dietetics | 25% | Nutrient composition, food science, research, nutrition sciences, education, technology, communication |
| Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups | 40% | Assessment, screening, diagnosis, intervention, planning, monitoring, evaluation |
| Management of Food and Nutrition Programs | 21% | Management functions, human resources, financial management, marketing, and quality improvement |
| Foodservice Systems | 14% | Menu development, procurement, production, distribution, safety, sanitation, equipment planning, and sustainability |
Exam Results and Passing Score
You’ll receive your scaled score immediately after completing the exam, both online in your CDR account and as a printed copy from the test center proctor. A scaled score of 25 or higher is required to pass.
If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam 45 days later. Contact CDR at [email protected] or call (312) 899-4859 to request reauthorization.
Preparing for the CDR Exam
Most successful candidates spend 3-4 months preparing for the exam. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics EatRight PREP offers comprehensive study materials specifically designed for the RDN exam, including practice questions, domain-specific modules, and full-length practice tests.
Apply for State Licensure as a Registered Dietitian in Arkansas
After passing the CDR exam and receiving your RD/RDN credential, you must obtain a license from the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board (ADLB) before practicing as a registered dietitian in the state.
Arkansas Licensure Requirements
To apply for your Arkansas dietitian license:
- Complete the initial application for a Licensed Dietitian through the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board
- Pay the application fee (see ADLB site for current fees; note that fees were temporarily reduced from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 202,6 by the Arkansas Department of Health)
- Have your signature notarized on the application
- Submit a copy of your CDR registration card
Submit all materials according to the instructions on the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board website. Allow up to six weeks for the Board to process your application and issue your license. You cannot legally practice as a dietitian in Arkansas until you receive your state license, even if you hold CDR registration.
Maintain Your Arkansas License and Specialty Certifications
Both your Arkansas state license and CDR registration require ongoing renewal to keep your credentials active and remain in good standing.
Arkansas License Renewal
The Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board (ADLB) requires annual license renewal. Complete the yearly renewal application available through the ADLB website and submit:
- Renewal fee (see ADLB site for current fees; note temporary renewal fee reduction from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026)
- Copy of your current CDR registration card
- Proof of 12 continuing education units (CEUs) completed during the past year
The Arkansas Board accepts continuing education units completed to maintain your CDR registration. Submit your renewal materials at least six weeks before your license expiration to ensure continuous licensure.
CDR Registration Renewal
Your CDR registration as a Registered Dietitian/Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD/RDN) requires renewal every five years through the Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) system. You must complete at least 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) during each five-year cycle, including one CPEU in ethics.
Acceptable Continuing Education Activities
- College or university courses (in-person or distance learning)
- Interactive workshops, webinars, and teleseminars
- Professional conferences and seminars
- Case study presentations and poster sessions
- Pre-approved independent study programs
- Research activities and publications
- Professional skill development programs
- Specialty certification programs
Document all continuing education in your Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) through the CDR website. See the CDR PDP Guide for detailed instructions on tracking and reporting your CPEUs.
Registered Dietitian Specialty Certifications
Advancing your expertise through specialty certifications demonstrates commitment to a specific practice area and can enhance career opportunities and earning potential. Earning and maintaining specialty certifications also fulfill your CDR continuing education requirements.
CDR Specialty Certifications:
- Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO)
- Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition (CSG)
- Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD)
- Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR)
- Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP)
Additional Professional Certifications:
- Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) – National Board of Nutrition Support Certification
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) – International Board of Lactation Consultant Education
- Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)
Explore Career Opportunities for Registered Dietitians in Arkansas
Registered dietitians in Arkansas work in diverse settings providing nutrition therapy, education, and food service management. The growing recognition of nutrition’s role in preventing and managing chronic diseases continues to expand career opportunities throughout the state.
Arkansas RD Salary and Job Market
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered dietitians and nutritionists in Arkansas earned an average annual salary of $66,660 (as of May 2024, O(EWS). Entry-level RDs typically start between $45,000-$50,000, while experienced dietitians in specialized roles or management positions can earn $75,000 or more.
Salary varies based on several factors, including:
- Years of experience and specialty certifications
- Practice setting (clinical, community, foodservice management)
- Geographic location within Arkansas
- Educational level (bachelor’s vs. master’s degree)
- Management responsibilities
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% employment growth rate for dietitians and nutritionists nationally from 2023 to 2033, driven by an increased emphasis on disease prevention and the need for specialized nutrition care among aging populations.
Top Employment Settings in Arkansas
Clinical/Hospital Settings – Work as part of healthcare teams in Arkansas hospitals and medical centers, providing medical nutrition therapy for patients with diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, and other conditions. Major employers include UAMS Medical Center, Baptist Health, CHI St. Vincent, and regional hospitals throughout the state.
Long-Term Care Facilities – Manage nutrition programs and provide individualized care plans for residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers across Arkansas.
Outpatient and Private Practice – Provide one-on-one nutrition counseling for weight management, sports nutrition, eating disorders, prenatal nutrition, and disease prevention. Many Arkansas RDs build successful private practices in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Jonesboro, and other communities throughout the state.
Community and Public Health – Work with the Arkansas Department of Health, WIC programs, community health centers, and nonprofit organizations to improve nutrition in underserved populations and promote public health initiatives.
Schools and Universities – Manage foodservice operations, develop wellness programs, and provide nutrition education in Arkansas school districts and university settings.
Food Service Management – Direct food production and service operations in healthcare facilities, corporate cafeterias, and institutional settings.
Career Advancement Pathways
Arkansas RDs can advance their careers through several pathways:
Clinical Specialist Roles – Develop expertise in areas like diabetes management, renal nutrition, pediatrics, or oncology nutrition. Specialty certifications command higher salaries and expanded responsibilities.
Management Positions – Progress to roles such as Clinical Nutrition Manager, Food Service Director, or Director of Nutrition Services, where you oversee departments and staff.
Private Practice and Consulting – Launch independent practices offering nutrition counseling, corporate wellness programs, or consulting services to healthcare facilities and businesses.
Education and Research – Pursue teaching positions at Arkansas universities or conduct nutrition research at academic medical centers.
Specialization Opportunities in Arkansas
Consider focusing your career in areas with growing demand in Arkansas:
- Diabetes Education – With Arkansas ranking among the states with the highest diabetes prevalence, diabetes educators are in high demand
- Gerontological Nutrition – Arkansas’s aging population creates opportunities in long-term care and senior wellness
- Sports Nutrition – Work with athletes and athletic programs at Arkansas universities and professional training facilities
- Pediatric Nutrition – Address childhood obesity and feeding disorders through hospitals, clinics, and school programs
- Renal Nutrition – Support dialysis patients through Arkansas dialysis centers and nephrology practices
Related Career Path: Arkansas Nutritionist
If you’re interested in nutrition but considering alternatives to the RD/RDN credential, Arkansas also recognizes nutritionists who practice outside the scope of medical nutrition therapy. View how to become a nutritionist in Arkansas here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Arkansas?
The complete pathway now typically takes 5-6 years, due to the requirement for a graduate degree. This includes earning a bachelor’s degree (4 years), completing a master’s degree with or after your undergraduate studies (1-2 years), fulfilling ACEND-accredited supervised practice (minimum 1,000 hours; program-specific), passing the CDR exam (typically within 1-2 months after completing requirements), and obtaining Arkansas state licensure (4-6 weeks processing time). Some students complete integrated programs that combine graduate education with supervised practice, which can streamline the timeline.
Do I need a master’s degree to become an RD in Arkansas?
Yes, for those taking the CDR exam on or after January 1, 2024. The Commission on Dietetic Registration now requires a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level) for all new dietitians seeking the RD/RDN credential. If you completed your education and supervised practice before this date, you may have been eligible under previous requirements, but you should verify your specific eligibility with CDR.
How much does it cost to become a registered dietitian in Arkansas?
Total costs vary significantly depending on whether you attend a public or private institution and your program pathway. Expect to invest $ 50,000 to $120,000 or more for your undergraduate and graduate degrees combined. Additional costs include the CDR exam fee, the Arkansas initial licensure fee, as well as ongoing expenses for annual license renewal and continuing education. Many graduate programs offer assistantships, and some supervised practice programs may be funded or have tuition waivers. Financial aid, scholarships, and graduate assistantships can help reduce costs. Check the ADLB and CDR websites for the most up-to-date fee information.
Is Arkansas a licensing or certification state for dietitians?
Arkansas is a licensing state, meaning dietitians must obtain a state license from the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board (ADLB) to practice. The permit requires holding CDR registration as an RD/RDN, completing ongoing continuing education (12 CEUs annually), renewing each year, and practicing as a dietitian without proper Licensure in Arkansas is illegal and subject to penalties.
What’s the difference between RD and RDN in Arkansas?
RD (Registered Dietitian) and RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) are the same credentials with the exact requirements, scope of practice, and legal recognition in Arkansas. The Commission on Dietetic Registration added the “Nutritionist” title option in 2013 to better reflect the profession. Both credentials require identical graduate education, ACEND-accredited supervised practice, examination, and licensure. You may use either title or both (RD/RDN) after your name.
Can I practice as a registered dietitian in Arkansas with a license from another state?
No, you must obtain an Arkansas license to practice as a dietitian in the state, even if you’re licensed in another state. However, if you hold a current CDR registration (RD/RDN) and a valid license from another state, the Arkansas application process is straightforward. Arkansas requires proof of your CDR credential, a completed application, payment of the fee, and documentation of continuing education. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks. Please check the ADLB website for the current application requirements and procedures.
What continuing education is required to maintain Arkansas licensure?
Arkansas requires 12 continuing education units (CEUs) annually for state license renewal through the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board. These hours can be the same CEUs you complete for CDR registration renewal, which requires 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) every five years, including one hour in ethics. Acceptable activities include workshops, webinars, conferences, university courses, and pre-approved independent study programs. Document your education through CDR’s Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) system.
How has the 2024 graduate degree requirement changed the pathway?
The January 1, 2024, requirement means all new RD/RDN candidates must now complete a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field to be eligible for the CDR exam. This adds 1-2 years to the educational pathway but provides advanced preparation and aligns the USUSredential with international standards. Many programs now offer combined pathways or graduate programs with integrated supervised practice to help students meet this requirement efficiently.
Key Takeaways
- Becoming a registered dietitian in Arkansas requires a graduate degree (as of January 1, 2024), ACEND-accredited supervised practice (minimum 1,000 hours; competency-based), passing the CDR exam, and obtaining state licensure through the Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board (ADLB)
- The complete pathway now takes 5-6 years due to the requirement for a graduate degree, with integrated programs offering streamlined options
- Arkansas offers multiple ACEND-accredited pathways, including coordinated programs, didactic programs, and graduate programs with integrated supervised practice at institutions such as Arkansas State University, UAMS, UCA, the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, and Harding
- The ADLB requires annual license renewal with 12 CEUs and a renewal fee (note temporary fee reductions from July 1, 202,5, through June 30, 2026)
- Registered dietitians in Arkansas earn an average annual salary of $66,660 (May 2024 OEWS), with opportunities available in hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, private practice, and community health settings
- Career advancement through specialty certifications (CSO, CSG, CSSD, CSR, CSP) can enhance earning potential and professional opportunities in high-demand areas like diabetes education, gerontology, and sports nutrition
Ready to Launch Your Registered Dietitian Career in Arkansas?
You now have a comprehensive roadmap for becoming a registered dietitian in Arkansas. The path requires dedication and commitment, but the reward is a fulfilling career helping Arkansans achieve better health through nutrition. Begin by researching Arkansas ACEND-accredited programs that align with your goals and location preferences. Contact program directors, visit campuses, and connect with current students to find the best fit for your educational journey.
The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.
Purdue Global's Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Program is an approved holistic nutrition education program through the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP).
Arizona State University - Online offers an Online Masters in Medical Nutrition
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
UNC's MPH Nutrition concentration prepares students to provide, evaluate and communicate nutritional and dietary guidance that improves individual and population-wide health outcomes. In addition to developing their knowledge of nutrition science, students will explore behavior change, communication, counseling and the effects of dietary culture on individuals and communities.
Walden University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Studies - Health Promotion and Wellness gains job-ready, immediately applicable skills today's employers want.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians and nutritionists and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.
Sources: Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) (graduate degree rule; exam format; Registry Statistics), Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) (accreditation standards; program information), Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board (ADLB) (licensure requirements; fees; renewal), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) (May 2023 wages), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) (2023-2033 employment projections).
