Becoming a registered dietitian in Virginia requires completing an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree, finishing a 1,200-hour dietetic internship, and passing the CDR exam. Virginia doesn’t require state licensure, making it easier to practice.
Virginia offers excellent opportunities for registered dietitians, with competitive salaries and no state licensure requirements. Whether you’re starting your nutrition career or transitioning from another field, this comprehensive guide outlines exactly how to become a registered dietitian in Virginia. Learn more about registered dietitian careers nationwide or explore the specific steps for Virginia below.
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Career Info and Salary Data for Virginia
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, there were 2,645 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in Virginia as of June 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that nutritionists and dietitians in Virginia earned strong salaries with significant growth potential.
| Location | Entry Level (25th percentile) | Median Salary (50th percentile) | Experienced (90th percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Statewide | $63,410 | $75,440 | $98,430+ |
| Richmond Metro Area | $64,200 | $75,370 | $96,850+ |
| Virginia Beach-Norfolk | $61,890 | $72,100 | $94,280+ |
Virginia is a state where dietitians need not be registered, licensed, or certified to legally practice. However, the Virginia Board of Health Professions mandates specific education, training, and experience requirements before you can work as a dietitian in the commonwealth.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Virginia
- Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Virginia
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Practice as a Registered Dietitian in Virginia
- Maintain Registration and Pursue Specialty Certifications
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Virginia
The first step to practicing as a registered dietitian in Virginia requires earning a bachelor’s degree or higher from an ACEND-accredited program. You must complete coursework in one of the following areas:
- Nutritional sciences
- Community nutrition
- Public health nutrition
- Food and nutrition
- Dietetics
- Human nutrition
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 Programs in Virginia
| University | Location | Degree Program |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg | Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise: Dietetics |
| James Madison University | Harrisonburg | Bachelor of Science in Dietetics |
| Norfolk State University | Norfolk | Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management/Food Science and Nutrition Concentration |
| Virginia State University | Petersburg | Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences: Dietetics |
| Radford University | Radford | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics |
Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Virginia
After completing your ACEND-approved didactic program in dietetics (DPD), you must apply for and complete an ACEND-approved dietetic internship. All approved DI programs include at least 1,200 hours of supervised practice completed in 8 to 24 months.
| Program | Location | Duration | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg | 10-month, full-time non-degree | Leadership and professional development |
| University of Virginia Health System | Charlottesville | 10-month, full-time non-degree | Adult and pediatric nutrition support |
| Virginia State University | Petersburg | 10-month, full-time non-degree | Research focus |
| Virginia Commonwealth University Health System | Richmond | 11-month, full-time non-degree | Food and nutrition management, medical nutrition therapy |
| Virginia/Maryland WIC Dietetic Internship | Richmond | 11-month, part-time non-degree | Community nutrition (VDH/MDH employees only) |
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Examination
After successfully completing your dietetic internship, you’ll receive notification to register for the CDR examination. You must apply within one year of completing your DI program and pay the $200 application fee.
CDR Exam Details
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based, multiple-choice |
| Questions | 125 total (100 scored, 25 pretest) |
| Time Limit | 3 hours (includes 30-minute tutorial) |
| Passing Score | Scaled score of 25 or higher (0-50 scale) |
| Retake Policy | 45-day waiting period, reauthorization required |
Virginia Testing Centers
You can take the CDR exam at these Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Virginia:
- Alexandria
- Glen Allen
- Lynchburg
- Newport News
- Reston
- Richmond
- Roanoke
Prepare for the exam using the CDR Study Outline and Guide and the official Registration Examination Handbook.
Practice as a Registered Dietitian in Virginia
Virginia doesn’t require state licensure, certification, or registration for dietitians to practice legally. However, the Virginia Code mandates that you complete all education, training, and examination requirements outlined in Steps 1-3 before practicing as a dietitian.
Since there’s no state licensure requirement, you won’t need to worry about renewal fees or state-specific continuing education. However, you must still maintain your RD credential through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Nutrition Careers in Virginia
Virginia’s diverse healthcare landscape offers registered dietitians numerous career opportunities across hospitals, private practice, community health centers, sports nutrition, and corporate wellness programs. The state’s growing focus on preventive healthcare creates a strong demand for nutrition professionals.
View how to become a nutritionist in Virginia here for alternative career pathways in nutrition.
Maintain Registration and Pursue Specialty Certifications
As a Registered Dietitian through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), you must renew your registration every five years. Complete a minimum of 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) during each renewal period.
Specialty Certifications Available
Enhance your career prospects and fulfill CPE requirements by pursuing specialty certifications:
| Certification Type | Specialization Areas | Certifying Body |
|---|---|---|
| CDR Board Certification | Gerontological, Pediatric, Oncology, Sports, Renal, and Obesity Management | Commission on Dietetic Registration |
| Diabetes Education | Diabetes Management, Advanced Diabetes Care | American Association of Diabetes Educators |
| Lactation Consultant | Breastfeeding Support, Maternal Nutrition | International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners |
| Sports Nutrition | Athletic Performance, Exercise Physiology | American College of Sports Medicine |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia require licensure for registered dietitians?
No, Virginia doesn’t require state licensure for registered dietitians. However, you must complete ACEND-accredited education, a dietetic internship, and pass the CDR exam to legally practice as a dietitian in Virginia.
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Virginia?
Typically 5-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 8-24 months for the dietetic internship, and 2-3 months to take and receive CDR exam results. The timeline can vary based on internship availability and individual circumstances.
What’s the job outlook for registered dietitians in Virginia?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7.4% employment growth for dietitians and nutritionists nationally through 2032, faster than average for all occupations. Virginia’s growing healthcare sector and aging population create strong demand for nutrition professionals.
Can I practice as a nutritionist instead of a registered dietitian in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia allows nutritionists to practice with different requirements.Learn the differences between nutritionists and registered dietitians to determine which career path suits your goals.
Are there financial aid options for dietetics programs in Virginia?
Yes, most Virginia universities offer financial aid, including federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Contact individual schools’ financial aid offices and explore nutrition-specific scholarships through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Key Takeaways
- No State Licensure Required: Virginia doesn’t require additional licensure beyond CDR registration
- Strong Salary Potential: Virginia RDs earn $75,440 median salary with growth to $98,430+
- Multiple Program Options: Five ACEND-accredited programs throughout the state
- Competitive Internships: Five dietetic internship programs with various specializations
- Career Growth Opportunities: Diverse healthcare landscape with specialty certification options
Ready to Start Your Registered Dietitian Journey in Virginia?
Virginia’s registered dietitian career path offers excellent opportunities without state licensure barriers. With competitive salaries, diverse practice settings, and strong job growth, now is an ideal time to begin your nutrition career.
Explore ACEND-accredited programs to find the right educational pathway for your career goals.
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.
