Becoming a registered dietitian in Alabama requires completing an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree, dietetic internship, passing the CDR exam, and obtaining state licensure. Alabama has 8 accredited programs and requires biennial license renewal with 30 CPE hours.
Alabama offers excellent pathways for aspiring registered dietitians, with multiple ACEND-accredited programs and clear licensing requirements. The state’s growing healthcare sector provides abundant career opportunities for qualified professionals.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Alabama
- Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Alabama
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
- Pursue Membership in Professional Dietary Organizations in AL
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Alabama
To become a registered dietitian in Alabama, you must complete a bachelor’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program. The Alabama State Board of Examiners for Dietetics requires candidates to be at least 19 years old, demonstrate good moral character, and earn a degree from a Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)-regionally accredited institution.
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.
Alabama offers two types of ACEND-accredited programs:
ACEND-Accredited Programs in Alabama
| Program Type | Institution | Degree | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coordinated Program (CP) | University of Alabama, Birmingham | Master of Science in Nutrition Sciences | Birmingham |
| Coordinated Program (CP) | University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa | Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition | Tuscaloosa |
| Coordinated Program (CP) | University of Montevallo | Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Nutrition Science | Montevallo |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Auburn University | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition | Auburn |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Samford University | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics | Birmingham |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Oakwood University | Bachelor of Science in Dietetics | Huntsville |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Jacksonville State University | Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences | Jacksonville |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Alabama A&M University | Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences | Normal |
| Didactic Program (DPD) | Tuskegee University | Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutritional Sciences | Tuskegee |
Program Types Explained
Coordinated Programs (CP) combine undergraduate coursework with a supervised internship, fulfilling both educational and internship requirements simultaneously. Students completing CP programs can proceed directly to the CDR exam.
Didactic Programs (DPD) provide undergraduate coursework only. Students must separately apply for and complete an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship after graduation.
Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Alabama
Students who completed Didactic Programs must complete an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship providing a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice. If you completed a Coordinated Program, you’ve already fulfilled this requirement.
Alabama Dietetic Internship Programs
| Institution | Duration | Emphasis | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samford University | 16 months (full-time) | Community and Public Health Nutrition | Birmingham |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | 12 months (full-time) | Medical Nutrition Therapy | Birmingham |
| Oakwood University | 10 months (full-time) | Medical Nutrition Therapy | Huntsville |
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
All candidates must pass the CDR Registration Examination to become eligible for Alabama state licensure. Upon completing your education and internship, CDR’s testing service will email your eligibility notice. You have one year from this notice to take the exam.
CDR Exam Details
The computer-based exam consists of 125-145 multiple-choice questions covering four main domains:
- Principles of Dietetics (25%) – Food science, nutrition, education, research
- Nutrition Care (40%) – Screening, assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring
- Management (21%) – Program management, human resources, financial management
- Food Service Systems (14%) – Menu development, production, safety, equipment
The exam costs $200 and requires a scaled score of 25 to pass. Alabama testing locations include Montgomery, Birmingham, Dothan, Mobile, and Decatur.
Apply for Alabama Dietitian License
After passing the CDR exam, you can apply for Alabama state licensure. The Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetic/Nutrition Practice oversees licensing for dietitians and nutritionists (the state considers these professions equivalent).
Application Requirements
- Completed application form with notarized signature
- Copy of CDR identification card showing RD status
- Copy of government-issued photo ID
- Application fee: $100
- License fee: $150
- Two professional references
License Renewal Requirements
Alabama requires biennial license renewal with 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) from approved sources, including:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics programs
- Commission on Dietetic Registration approved activities
- Alabama Dietetic Association programs
- Accredited academic courses
- Professional conferences and workshops
Pursue Membership in Professional Dietary Organizations in AL
Professional membership and specialty certifications enhance career opportunities and help meet continuing education requirements. Alabama dietitians can pursue various specialty certifications through CDR.
Available Specialty Certifications
| Certification | Experience Required | Recertification | Exam Locations in Alabama |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pediatric Nutrition | 2,000 hours (5 years) | Every 5 years | Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery |
| Oncology Nutrition | 2,000 hours (5 years) | Every 5 years | Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery |
| Gerontological Nutrition | 2,000 hours (5 years) | Every 5 years | Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery |
| Sports Dietetics | 1,500 hours (5 years) | Every 5 years | Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery |
| Renal Nutrition | 2,000 hours (5 years) | Every 5 years | Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery |
Alabama Registered Dietitian Salary and Job Market
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, Alabama had 1,525 Registered Dietitians and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists as of June 2025. The state’s healthcare sector continues to grow, creating opportunities for qualified professionals.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Alabama dietitians and nutritionists earned an average salary of $66,660 as of May 2024. Entry-level professionals typically earn around $54,910, while experienced dietitians can earn $88,150 or more annually. The Birmingham metropolitan area offers higher average salaries at $68,220.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to practice as a dietitian in Alabama?
Yes, Alabama requires all practicing dietitians to obtain state licensure through the Alabama Board of Examiners for Dietetic/Nutrition Practice. You must pass the CDR exam and meet education requirements before applying.
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Alabama?
Typically 4-5 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree plus 6-12 months for internship (unless you complete a coordinated program). Additional time may be needed for exam preparation and licensing application processing.
What’s the difference between Coordinated Programs and Didactic Programs?
Coordinated Programs combine coursework and internship in one program, allowing you to graduate ready for the CDR exam. Didactic Programs require separate internship applications after completing coursework.
Can I complete my dietetic internship outside of Alabama?
Yes, you can complete an ACEND-accredited internship in any state. Alabama accepts internships completed anywhere in the United States as long as they meet ACEND standards.
How much does an Alabama dietitian licensing cost?
Initial licensing costs $250 total ($100 application fee + $150 license fee). Biennial renewal costs $150 plus continuing education expenses.
What continuing education is required in Alabama?
Alabama requires 30 hours of continuing professional education every two years from approved providers, including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, CDR, or the Alabama Dietetic Association.
Key Takeaways
- Education Requirements: Complete an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s degree from one of Alabama’s eight approved programs
- Internship: Complete 1,200+ hours of supervised practice through an internship or coordinated program
- Examination: Pass the CDR Registration Examination with a scaled score of 25 or higher
- Licensure: Apply for the Alabama state license, costing $250 initially, $150 for biennial renewal
- Continuing Education: Complete 30 CPE hours every two years to maintain licensure
- Career Prospects: Average salary of $66,660 with growth opportunities in healthcare and specialty areas
Ready to Start Your Registered Dietitian Career in Alabama?
Take the first step toward becoming a registered dietitian by exploring ACEND-accredited programs in Alabama. Research program requirements, application deadlines, and start planning your path to this rewarding healthcare career.
View how to become a nutritionist in Alabama here.
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.
