Graduate Degree Requirement for RDs: Complete Guide to Your Options Under the Future Education Model

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.

The landscape of dietetics education underwent a transformative shift on January 1, 2024, when the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) implemented a new requirement: all aspiring Registered Dietitians (RDs) must now hold a minimum graduate degree to be eligible for the RD exam. This change has created both opportunities and challenges for students pursuing careers in nutrition and dietetics.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the graduate degree requirement, the Future Education Model, and how to choose the right pathway for your situation, whether you’re a career changer, recent graduate, or current nutrition student.

Understanding the Graduate Degree Requirement

What Changed on January 1, 2024?

The minimum degree requirement for RD exam eligibility increased from a bachelor’s degree to a graduate degree. This change affects anyone seeking to establish eligibility for the registration examination for the first time on or after January 1, 2024.

Several necessary clarifications often surprise prospective students. The graduate degree can be in any accredited field, not just nutrition. The degree must come from a regionally accredited institution recognized by the US Department of Education. An MBA, Master of Public Health, psychology degree, or other accredited graduate program satisfies this requirement, as long as you also complete ACEND-accredited didactic coursework and supervised practice.

Current RDs are NOT required to obtain a graduate degree. If you established RD exam eligibility before December 31, 2023, you’re grandfathered in under the previous requirements.

The supervised practice requirement hasn’t changed. All pathways still require a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning (most programs require approximately 1,200 hours) in clinical, community, and foodservice management settings.

Key Clarifications People Often Miss

The flexibility of this requirement creates opportunities that many students don’t initially realize. If you’re a career changer who already holds an MBA from a previous career, you don’t need another master’s degree in nutrition. Your MBA satisfies the graduate degree requirement, provided it’s from a regionally accredited institution. You’ll need to complete ACEND-accredited didactic coursework and supervised practice, but the advanced degree box is already checked.

This flexibility extends to virtually any accredited graduate program, including counseling, business, public health, education, and other fields. The coursework and supervised practice requirements remain unchanged from previous standards, covering medical nutrition therapy, food science, biochemistry, community nutrition, and supervised practice hours across multiple settings.

Why the Change?

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, ACEND, and CDR reached this decision collaboratively based on the 2012 Council on Future Practice Visioning Report.

Professional parity represents a major driver. Nearly all other healthcare professions already require graduate-level entry education. Physical therapists, occupational therapists, physician assistants, and speech-language pathologists all moved to graduate-level requirements in recent decades.

The increasing complexity of modern dietetics practice requires a deeper understanding. Today’s RDs work with increasingly complex medical conditions, manage sophisticated nutrition support protocols, and must critically evaluate emerging research.

Leadership preparation also factored into the decision. Many RDs advance to management roles requiring graduate-level competencies in systems thinking, quality improvement, and organizational management.

State licensing requirements also played a role. California specifically stated that it wouldn’t license new healthcare professions without a master’s-level education. As the most populous state, California’s position influenced the national decision.

Five Educational Pathways to Becoming an RD

The graduate degree requirement has created multiple pathways to RD eligibility, each suited to different circumstances. Understanding these options helps you choose the most efficient and affordable route.

Note: Costs and timelines are approximate estimates and vary by institution, location, and individual circumstances.

Pathway 1: Graduate Program (GP) – The Future Education Model

Graduate Programs represent ACEND’s integrated Future Education Model, designed to streamline the path to RD eligibility by combining a master’s degree with supervised practice in a single program.

How it works: These programs integrate master’s-level coursework alongside a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised experiential learning (most programs require approximately 1,200 hours). No separate internship matching is required, and no DPD verification statement is needed for admission. Programs typically take 16-28 months to complete. Upon graduation, you receive a verification statement and immediate exam eligibility.

Best for: Career changers with any bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics or an unrelated field, students seeking a streamlined pathway without the stress of internship matching, and those needing geographic flexibility, since many programs offer online coursework with local supervised practice arrangements.

Key advantages include a single application process instead of multiple, faster completion than traditional pathways, greater accessibility for non-nutrition majors, and many programs requiring minimal prerequisites (some as few as 3 courses).

Potential challenges include students arranging their own supervised practice sites in many programs, preceptor availability that varies significantly by geographic area, competency-based progression that requires strong self-direction, and limited part-time options.

Notable programs:

• University of New England: 3 prerequisites, 28 months, $860/credit (approximately $41,280 total), 100% online coursework
• University of Arizona: 12-month full-time PSM program, strong research focus
• Arkansas State: One of the most affordable at approximately $18,550 total

Pathway 2: Coordinated Program (CP) at Graduate Level

Coordinated Programs integrate didactic coursework, supervised practice, and a master’s degree in a single structured program.

How it works: Programs combine all requirements into a single package: DPD coursework, a master’s degree, and a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice (most require approximately 1,200 hours). They typically run 2-3 years at the graduate level. The program arranges most or all supervised practice placements. You receive both a master’s degree and a verification statement upon completion.

Best for: Students who prefer structured programs with arranged placements, those starting dietetics education at the graduate level, and students seeking comprehensive support throughout the process.

Key advantages include being the most time-efficient pathway by combining all requirements, program-coordinated supervised practice placements, no separate internship matching, and an integrated curriculum that progressively builds competencies.

Potential challenges include a rigorous full-time commitment, limited geographic flexibility during rotations, and the demanding nature of completing coursework concurrently with supervised practice.

Cost considerations: Total costs typically range from approximately $30,000 to over $100,000. Madonna University (MI) costs roughly $38,220 total. Meredith College offers programs under $30,000 with an accelerated one-year option. Private universities can exceed $100,000.

Pathway 3: Traditional DPD + Any Master’s + Dietetic Internship

This represents the traditional pathway, now requiring an additional graduate degree component.

How it works: Complete an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (bachelor’s or certificate) and obtain DPD verification. Complete any accredited master’s degree (can be concurrent or sequential). Apply through DICAS to match with a dietetic internship. Complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice (most internships require approximately 1,200 hours). Receive a DI verification statement and become eligible for the CDR exam.

Best for: Students already enrolled in DPD programs, those who want to diversify skills with a non-nutrition graduate degree, and students with the flexibility to relocate for internships.

Key advantages include complete flexibility to choose any accredited graduate degree field (MBA, MPH, psychology, etc.), the ability to complete the master’s while working if appropriately structured, and potentially broader career flexibility with complementary degrees.

Potential challenges include competitive dietetic internship matching (historically around 50-60% match rates), the risk of not matching and needing to reapply, the most extended overall timeline at 6-7 years, typically the most expensive pathway when completing components separately, and navigating three separate application processes.

Recent years have seen more DI positions available as students increasingly choose coordinated and FEM programs, potentially improving match rates.

Pathway 4: DPD Certificate for Career Changers

Post-baccalaureate DPD certificates allow individuals with bachelor’s degrees in unrelated fields to complete required dietetics coursework without earning a second bachelor’s degree.

How it works: Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field. Complete a DPD certificate program (typically 20-22 courses over 18-24 months) and earn DPD verification. Complete an accredited master’s degree in any field (concurrent or sequential). Apply to and complete a dietetic internship with a minimum of 1,000 hours (most require approximately 1,200 hours). Receive DI verification and become exam-eligible.

Best for: Career changers who already have a master’s degree in another field, those who want to complete requirements while continuing to work, and students seeking the most economical pathway.

Key advantages include lower cost than earning a second bachelor’s degree, the ability to take prerequisite courses at community colleges to reduce expenses, flexibility to work while completing coursework, and if you already have an accredited master’s, you only need DPD coursework plus internship.

Potential challenges include still requiring competitive internship matching, multiple steps that extend the overall timeline, and carefully verifying which courses transfer to avoid retaking coursework.

Notable programs: Lamar University (graduate-level DPD certificate, $360/credit, 100% online), Metropolitan State University of Denver (73 credits total, accepts bachelor’s in any field), and the University of Illinois (20-22 courses depending on prior coursework).

Pathway 5: Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISPP)

ISPP programs offer a flexible, self-directed option for specific populations.

How it works: Only available to doctoral degree holders OR DPD graduates who didn’t match to internships (note: ISPP for unmatched DPD graduates is being phased out by December 31, 2026). Students arrange their own supervised practice experiences with approved preceptors. Programs typically take 6-24 months, depending on prior knowledge. Previous dietetics work experience may count toward hours—greater geographic flexibility since you arrange your own experiences.

Best for: Doctoral degree holders (PhD, MD, etc.) wanting to add the RD credential, self-directed individuals with strong organizational skills, and those unable to relocate for traditional internships.

Key advantages include the ability to tailor experiences to career goals, the potential to coordinate part-time employment, the ability to stay in the current geographic location, and no additional degree required if you hold a doctorate.

Important note: ACEND is phasing out ISPP for unmatched DPD graduates by December 31, 2026. After that date, ISPP will only be available to doctoral degree holders.

Choosing the Right Master’s Degree

One of the most frequently asked questions is: “What type of master’s degree should I pursue?” The answer depends on your career goals and current situation.

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.

Nutrition-Specific Master’s Degrees

An MS in Nutrition or Clinical Nutrition deepens nutrition science expertise, prepares you for specialized clinical roles, provides a strong foundation for research or doctoral work, and many programs include thesis options.

A Master of Public Health (MPH) in Nutrition focuses on population-level nutrition interventions, prepares you for community nutrition and policy development, often includes epidemiology and biostatistics training, and is a strong fit for public health careers.

Dual degree options include combined MPH and MS in Clinical Nutrition programs, accelerated BS/MS programs (5 years total), and MS programs integrated with dietetic internships.

Non-Nutrition Master’s Degrees

Since any accredited master’s degree satisfies the requirement, many RDs choose complementary fields to diversify their skill sets.

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) proves valuable for foodservice management, consulting, and private practice. It opens doors to corporate wellness and food industry positions and prepares you for leadership and entrepreneurship.

A general Master of Public Health (not nutrition-focused) provides broader public health training, intense preparation for health policy and program evaluation, and an excellent background for government and nonprofit careers.

Master’s degrees in Psychology or Counseling enhance behavior change counseling skills, prove particularly valuable for eating disorder treatment and mental health nutrition work, and some programs offer dual credentials.

Many RDs successfully use master’s degrees in business, education, health administration, or other accredited fields to create unique career niches combining nutrition expertise with other professional competencies. For more detailed examples, see the Common Questions section below.

Understanding Supervised Experiential Learning (SEL)

All pathways to becoming an RD require supervised practice, but the structure varies significantly by program type.

Traditional Dietetic Internship Model

The traditional model involves post-graduation, full-time commitment typically lasting 8-12 months. The program coordinates all placements across required practice areas. You complete structured rotations through clinical, community, and foodservice management settings with a minimum of 1,000 hours (most programs require approximately 1,200 hours).

Internships are often unpaid, limiting the ability to work during this period. Costs range from approximately $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the program.

Future Education Model Supervised Experiential Learning

The FEM approach integrates supervised practice throughout your curriculum, concurrent with coursework. Programs often require students to arrange their own preceptors. Progression is competency-based rather than time-based—you advance as you demonstrate competencies, not on fixed schedules. This potentially allows more flexible scheduling.

Competency-Based Education

ACEND’s 2022 Standards require programs to assess competencies across seven domains:

Scientific and Evidence-Based Practice covers research literacy and critical thinking. Professional Practice Expectations include ethics, professionalism, and regulatory compliance. Clinical and Client Services encompass medical nutrition therapy, counseling, and patient education.

Practice Management covers quality improvement, budgeting, and systems management. Leadership and Career Management include self-assessment, advocacy, and teamwork. Interprofessional Collaboration focuses on working with healthcare teams. Population and Public Health addresses community assessment and program planning.

Each competency includes performance indicators at three levels: “Knows” (cognitive understanding), “Shows” (demonstrates in controlled settings), and “Does” (performs independently in practice).

Finding Preceptors – Real Challenges & Solutions

One frequently discussed challenge in online FEM programs is securing preceptors for supervised practice experiences.

Preceptor requirements: Must hold an RD/RDN credential with a minimum of one year post-credential experience, be willing to supervise students, and work at facilities with affiliation agreements with your program (can take 6-8 months to establish).

Common concerns include preceptors unfamiliar with the FEM model, preceptors hesitant to participate, geographic areas with significant variation in preceptor availability, some facilities with limits on student numbers, and students who may need to travel 1-2+ hours for placements.

Strategies for success: Start preceptor outreach early (6-12 months before needed), join professional networks and ask for recommendations, contact your state dietetic association for leads, consider telehealth options where appropriate, and be flexible with scheduling to accommodate preceptor availability.

Program support varies. Established programs likethe  University of New England have relationships with facilities nationwide and can help connect students. Newer programs may offer less support, requiring more student initiative.

Financial Considerations

Understanding the complete financial picture helps you make informed decisions and plan appropriately for this significant investment.

Total Cost to Become an RD

According to CDR and industry sources, the total investment to become an RD now ranges from approximately $60,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on your pathway choices.

Note: All costs are approximate estimates and vary significantly by institution, location, and individual circumstances. State licensure requirements vary and are subject to change; always verify current requirements with your state licensing board.

Additional costs often surprise students and include technology fees (approximately $50-200 per semester), lab kits for science courses (roughly $200-500), textbooks and software (approximately $500-1,000 per semester), professional liability insurance during supervised practice, travel and potential relocation for rotations, and lost income during unpaid internship periods.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Options

Substantial scholarship funding exists specifically for dietetics students, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation represents the single largest scholarship provider, distributing over $250,000 annually through 250+ scholarships. One universal application applies to all matching awards. Individual awards range from $500 to $20,000 across undergraduate, graduate, dietetic intern, and doctoral categories.

All 50 state dietetic associations offer scholarships through Academy affiliates, typically ranging from $500 to $3,000. They favor students planning to practice in that state and tend to be less competitive than national scholarships.

University-specific aid includes departmental scholarships within ACEND programs, graduate assistantships offering teaching or research positions (often with tuition waivers and stipends), and work-study positions.

Specialty scholarships target specific practice areas or populations, including Commission on Dietetic Registration awards of $10,000- $20,000 for advanced practice, diversity and inclusion scholarships, and practice-area-specific awards for sports nutrition, pediatrics, renal nutrition, oncology, and other specialties.

The application timeline for most scholarships runsfrom  February through April for the following academic year.

Return on Investment Analysis

The financial viability of pursuing RD credentials has become a contentious topic, particularly given the increased educational requirements.

According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median RD salary is approximately $66,450 annually. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) earn roughly $45,630. Experienced RDs (90th percentile) earn approximately $96,850 or more. The average across all experience levels is approximately $74,770.

Salary varies by specialty and setting: Government positions average approximately $91,060. Hospital employment typically ranges from approximately $70,000 to $85,000. Outpatient care centers pay roughly $68,000 to $80,000. Long-term care facilities usually offer approximately $65,000 to $75,000. Private practice incomes vary widely from approximately $65,000 to $150,000+, depending on business success.

Geographic variations also impact earning potential. The highest-paying states include California, Oregon, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Washington.

Lifetime earnings show that master’s degree holders in dietetics typically earn approximately $200,000 to $400,000 more over a 30-year career compared to bachelor’s-level nutrition professionals.

ROI concerns appear frequently in online discussions. Taking on $100,000+ debt for a $50,000 starting salary creates a questionable return on investment—programs costing $30,000– 40,000 with strong outcomes present a stronger value proposition. Scholarships, assistantships, and in-state tuition significantly improve ROI.

The consensus is to carefully analyze the debt-to-income ratio before committing to expensive programs, and to aim for total educational debt below your expected starting salary, if possible.

Note: Salary figures are approximate and based on 2024 BLS data. Actual salaries vary significantly by location, experience, setting, and specialization.

Making Your Decision: A Framework

Choosing your pathway requires honest assessment of your current situation, careful research, and realistic financial planning.

Step 1: Assess Your Current Situation

Educational background: Do you have a bachelor’s in nutrition/dietetics with DPD verification? Consider coordinated master’s programs or master’s plus dietetic internship. Do you have a bachelor’s in an unrelated field? Consider FEM/GP programs or the DPD certificate pathway. Do you already have an accredited master’s or doctorate? The DPD certificate plus the dietetic internship make the most sense.

Financial capacity: What’s your available budget for graduate education? Can you complete your education full-time, or do you need part-time options? Are you able to complete an unpaid or low-paid internship?

Geographic flexibility: Are you willing to relocate for education? Do you need to stay in your current location? Do you live in an area with good availability of preceptors?

Career goals: Do you have specific specialty interests? Are you planning to pursue a PhD eventually? Do you have entrepreneurial or private practice goals?

Step 2: Research Programs

Use the ACEND Program Directory to find accredited programs. Filter by program type, location, and format. Compare total cost with all fees, program length and format, prerequisites required, how supervised practice is arranged, first-time CDR exam pass rates, and graduate employment rates.

Step 3: Calculate Total Investment

Create a comprehensive budget including tuition and fees, living expenses, lost income (especially during an unpaid internship), travel and relocation costs, and professional expenses (memberships, insurance, exam fees).

Compare the total investment with the expected salary in your target location. Calculate time to recoup investment—research scholarship opportunities to reduce costs.

Step 4: Apply Strategically

Plan your timeline carefully—most programs have application deadlines 6-12 months before start dates.

Prepare strong application materials: official transcripts, GRE scores (if required), letters of recommendation (typically 2-3), compelling personal statement, resume or CV, and prerequisite completion documentation.

Strengthen competitiveness with Ga PA of 3.0 minimum (3.2+ more competitive), relevant experience through volunteering or work in nutrition/healthcare, leadership in student organizations, and clear career goals articulated in application materials.

Recommended Pathways by Situation

Your optimal pathway depends on your starting point and goals.

Career Changer: Non-Nutrition Bachelor’s, No Master’s

Most efficient option: Future Education Model Graduate Program

Programs to consider: University of New England (3 prerequisites, 28 months, online coursework), University of Arizona (strong reputation, online PSM), Arkansas State (most affordable at approximately $18,000 total)

Timeline: Approximately 2 to 2.5 years
Estimated cost: Approximately $18,000 to $45,000

Pros: Fastest pathway, no internship matching, flexible geographic options
Cons: Self-arranged preceptors in most programs, full-time commitment typically required

Career Changer: Already Have a Master’s in Another Field

Most efficient pathway: DPD Certificate followed by Standalone Dietetic Internship

Timeline: Approximately 2.5 to 3 years (18-24 months DPD certificate, then 8-12 months internship)
Estimated cost: Approximately $20,000 to $40,000

Pros: No additional master’s needed, can work while completing the DPD certificate
Cons: Still requires competitive internship matching, longer timeline than integrated programs

Current Nutrition Student or Recent Grad with DPD

Option A: Coordinated Master’s Program
Timeline: 2-3 years
Estimated cost: Approximately $30,000-$50,000
Pros: No internship matching, streamlined process
Cons: Full-time commitment, less flexibility

Option B: Master’s (any accredited field) + Standalone Dietetic Internship
Timeline: 3-4 years
Estimated cost: Varies by master’s program choice
Pros: Diversify skills with a complementary degree
Cons: Competitive internship matching required, longer timeline

Budget-Conscious: Minimizing Debt

Strategy: Complete prerequisites at community colleges, choose in-state public programs, apply for every relevant scholarship, and consider graduate assistantships for tuition waivers.

Target programs under $30K: Arkansas State (approximately $18,000), Meredith College (under $30,000), Madonna University (roughly $38,000)

Common Questions from the Community

These questions appear frequently in online communities and reflect real concerns from prospective RD students.

Can I Really Use Any Master’s Degree?

Yes, provided it’s from a regionally accredited institution recognized by the US Department of Education. The requirement states you must hold a minimum graduate degree—it can be an MBA, MPH, master’s in psychology, counseling, education, business, or any other accredited field.

You must still complete ACEND-accredited didactic coursework and supervised practice. But the master’s degree itself can be in any accredited field.

Real examples: An RD with an MBA may excel in foodservice management or private practice. An RD with a counseling degree may specialize in eating disorders. An RD with an education degree may work in school nutrition programs.

Is the Master’s Requirement Worth It, Given RD Salaries?

This represents perhaps the most debated question in the field.

Arguments in favor: Professional credibility and parity with other healthcare professions, advanced knowledge needed for complex medical nutrition therapy, leadership preparation for management roles, a lifetime earning differential of approximately $200,000-$400,000+, and required for licensure and Medicare reimbursement.

Arguments against: Significant debt burden relative to starting salaries, potential reduction in diversity due to cost barriers, requirement may not be sufficiently evidence-based, and wages haven’t increased proportionally to educational requirements.

Consensus: The requirement is now mandatory. Focus on choosing affordable programs (approximately $30,000- $40,000, if possible), maximizing scholarships and financial aid, considering coordinated or FEM programs to reduce timeline and cost, and avoiding expensive programs unless they offer substantial scholarships.

Which Pathway Is Fastest for Career Changers?

For career changers with a bachelor’s in any field, the Graduate Program (FEM) is typically the fastest, at 2 to 2.5 years total.

Timeline comparison: FEM/GP programs take 2-2.5 years. Coordinated MS programs take 2-3 years if prerequisites are met. DPD Certificate plus master’s plus DI takes 3-4+ years total.

What About Preceptor Challenges in FEM Programs?

This represents a legitimate concern frequently discussed online.

Common issues: Students in rural areas struggle to find clinical preceptors. Some preceptors are unfamiliar with the FEM model. Affiliation agreements can take 6-8 months to establish. Students may need to travel 1-2 hours for placements.

Strategies for success: Start preceptor outreach early (6-12 months ahead), join professional networks and ask for recommendations, contact your state dietetic association for leads, consider telehealth options where appropriate, and be flexible with scheduling.

Program support varies. Established programs like the University of New England have nationwide relationships and can help connect students. Newer programs may offer less support.

Should I Choose an Expensive “Prestigious” Program?

The consensus from working RDs is clear: No, unless they offer substantial scholarships.

Reasoning: Employers rarely care which program you attended once credentialed. All ACEND-accredited programs prepare you for the same CDR exam. RD salaries don’t justify $80,000-$100,000 program costs when starting at $45,000-$55,000. Better ROI comes from affordable programs with strong outcomes.

Exceptions: If the prestigious program offers substantial scholarships reducing your out-of-pocket cost to reasonable levels, or if you have specific research goals requiring particular faculty or resources.

Better strategy: Choose the most affordable ACEND-accredited program fitting your learning style, schedule, and geographic situation. Focus on outcomes like pass rates and employment rates rather than prestige.

Future Considerations

The dietetics education landscape continues evolving. Understanding emerging trends helps you make forward-looking decisions.

Trends to Watch

Increasing online options are making dietetics education more geographically accessible. Fifty-six ACEND-accredited master’s programs now offer online coursework, removing geographic barriers.

Programmatic evolution continues as ACEND refines standards. The transition from traditional internships to competency-based supervised experiential learning reflects broader educational trends.

Workforce shortages are creating more opportunities. More internship positions are available now as students increasingly choose coordinated and FEM routes, potentially improving match rates.

Salary negotiations may benefit from shifts in supply and demand. The 7% job growth projection (faster than average) may increase RD bargaining power for higher salaries, improving ROI over time.

Alternative Career Paths

If the graduate degree requirement feels prohibitive, consider related career paths.

Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) requires only an associate degree plus 450 supervised practice hours. Median salary is approximately $39,560. You work under RD supervision and can potentially transition to RD later.

Nutritionists in states without licensure requirements may practice with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition without completing an internship or exam. More limited scope of practice, typically can’t bill Medicare or insurance. Average salaries range from approximately $45,000 to $55,000.

Related fields, such as health coaching, food science, food safety, health education, or public health roles, may appeal to those with nutrition backgrounds who choose not to pursue RD credentials.

Note: State licensure requirements for nutritionists vary and are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board.

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.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your RD Journey?

Choosing your path to becoming a registered dietitian requires careful research and planning. Start by exploring ACEND-accredited programs that match your situation, calculate your total investment, including all costs, and research scholarship opportunities to reduce your financial burden.

The path to RD credentials now requires a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Still, with strategic planning and informed choices, you can navigate this requirement efficiently while building a rewarding career in nutrition and USetetics.

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD, is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritional Epidemiologist with over 18 years of experience in evidence-based nutrition. Holding a PhD from the University of Copenhagen, she specializes in dietary interventions for metabolic health and sustainable eating. Dr. Voss has published in leading journals like The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and contributed to global wellness programs

See Full Bio

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians and nutritionists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.