How to Become a Registered Dietitian in Alaska (2025)

Alaska’s unique healthcare landscape creates exceptional opportunities for registered dietitians who want to make a real difference. From working with Alaska Native communities to serving remote populations through telehealth, RDs in the Last Frontier tackle nutrition challenges found nowhere else in the nation.

The Commission on Dietetic Registration reported 268 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in Alaska as of June 2025. The state offers competitive compensation, with dietitians earning an average of $84,150 as of May 2024. Alaska’s nonmetropolitan areas rank among the top-paying regions nationally for nutrition professionals at $89,590.

This guide walks you through every step of becoming a registered dietitian in Alaska, from choosing the right education program to maintaining your credentials. Whether you’re just starting your nutrition journey or you’re an out-of-state RD seeking Alaska licensure, you’ll find everything you need to launch your career here. Note that as of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration now requires a master’s degree to become a registered dietitian.

Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:

1. Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Alaska
2. Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Alaska
3. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
4. Apply for State Licensing as a Registered Dietitian in Alaska
5. Maintain Your Alaska License and Apply for Specialty Certifications

Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Alaska

The Alaska Board of Dietetics and Nutritionists requires all registered dietitians to meet the standards set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). As of January 1, 2024, this means earning a master’s degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

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.

This represents a significant change from previous requirements. While a bachelor’s degree was sufficient in the past, CDR now mandates graduate-level education for all new registered dietitians.

Understanding Your Education Pathway Options

You have several pathways to meet the new master’s degree requirement. Each involves ACEND-accredited education, but the timing and structure differ:

University of Alaska Anchorage Dietetics Program

Alaska offers an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics through the University of Alaska Anchorage. The program provides the foundational coursework required for dietetics practice, qualifying students to apply for dietetic internships.

Important Note: UAA’s DPD provides bachelor ‘s-level coursework. Students must also complete a master’s degree (either before, during, or after the internship) to meet CDR’s education requirement. Many students complete their DPD at UAA, then pursue master’s degrees through online programs or out-of-state universities.

UAA DPD Program Highlights:

• ACEND Accreditation – Meets CDR requirements for internship eligibility
• Alaska-Focused Curriculum – Coursework includes Alaska Native nutrition and remote healthcare delivery
• Hands-On Learning – Clinical experiences in Alaska healthcare facilities
• Small Class Sizes – Personalized attention from faculty
• Cultural Competency – Training specific to Alaska’s diverse populations

Typical Prerequisite Courses:

Before applying to the dietetics program, you’ll typically need to complete foundation courses in chemistry, biology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, psychology, and statistics. Please check with UAA’s admissions office for the most up-to-date requirements.

Master’s Degree Options for Alaska Students

After completing your DPD coursework, you’ll need to earn a master’s degree. You have flexibility in choosing when and where to pursue this degree:

• Before the internship – Complete a master’s degree, then apply for internships
• During the internship – Some students pursue online master’s programs while completing supervised practice
• After the internship – Complete the internship first, then finish the master’s degree before taking the CDR exam

The key requirement is that you must have completed your master’s degree before you can sit for the CDR registration exam. The master’s degree doesn’t have to be in nutrition or dietetics specifically, but it must be from a regionally accredited institution.

Online and Out-of-State Program Options

Many aspiring RDs in Alaska complete their education through online programs or out-of-state universities. Any ACEND-accredited program will meet Alaska’s education requirements, giving you flexibility in choosing where to study.

Critical Reminder: Regardless of the pathway you choose, ensure that all programs are ACEND-accredited and that you complete a master’s degree. Non-accredited nutrition degrees won’t qualify you to sit for the CDR exam or obtain licensure in Alaska.

Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Alaska

After completing your ACEND-accredited coursework and earning at least a master’s degree (or having it in progress), you’ll need to complete 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship. This hands-on training is where you’ll apply your classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings.

Master’s Degree Timing: While CDR requires a master’s degree before taking the registration exam, you can complete your internship before, during, or after earning your master’s. Many students pursue online master’s programs while completing their supervised practice hours. Ensure your master’s degree is complete before scheduling your CDR exam.

University of Alaska Anchorage Dietetic Internship

Alaska’s only ACEND-accredited internship program, operated through UAA, offers a unique opportunity to train in one of the nation’s most distinctive healthcare environments.

Program Details:

• Duration: 9 months, full-time
• Format: In-person rotations throughout Anchorage and potentially other Alaska locations
• Concentration: Alaska Native Culture and the Alaska Healthcare Delivery System
• Rotations Include: Clinical nutrition, community nutrition, food service management, and Alaska-specific placements
• Cultural Training: Work directly with Alaska Native health organizations and learn traditional food systems

The Internship Application Process

Dietetic internships are competitive nationwide. Most programs, including UAA’s, use the centralized DICAS (Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System) for applications.

Timeline Considerations:

• Applications typically open: Early fall for spring start dates
• Match notification: Usually announced in the spring
• Preparation time: Start preparing your application 6-12 months before the deadline
• Competitive elements: GPA, volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement
• Master’s degree status: Some programs require master’s degree completion, while others accept students enrolled in master’s programs

Alternative Pathways

If you don’t match with UAA’s program on your first attempt, you have several options:

• Apply to multiple programs: You can list several internship programs in your DICAS application
• Reapply next cycle: Use the time to strengthen your application with more experience
• Distance internships: Some programs offer supervised practice that can be completed remotely
• Out-of-state programs: Any ACEND-accredited internship will qualify you for Alaska licensure
• Graduate coordinated programs: Consider programs that integrate master’s education with internship hours

Pro Tip: Don’t limit yourself to Alaska-only programs. Completing your internship elsewhere won’t prevent you from obtaining Alaska licensure, as long as the program is ACEND-accredited.

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

Once you’ve completed both your ACEND-accredited education (including your master’s degree), and 1,200-hour internship, you’re eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitian Nutritionists. Passing this exam is required for both CDR registration and Alaska state licensure.

Exam Eligibility and Registration

After you finish your internship and master’s degree, you’ll receive an email from ACT, Inc. (CDR’s testing service) confirming your eligibility. From the date of that email, you have one year to schedule and take the exam. Don’t wait until the last minute – give yourself adequate preparation time.

Registration Steps:

1. Confirm completion of both master’s degree and internship hours
2. Receive eligibility notification from ACT, Inc.
3. Register online through the CDR website
4. Pay the $200 exam fee by credit card
5. Receive scheduling email from Pearson VUE
6. Choose your exam date, time, and location

Alaska Testing Location

Alaska has one Pearson VUE testing center where you can take the CDR exam:

Anchorage Testing Center:
2550 Denali St., Suite 511
Denali Towers North Building
Anchorage, Alaska

Exams are offered year-round. When you arrive, please bring a government-issued photo ID and your confirmation email, which should display your scheduled date and time.

Exam Format and Content

The Registration Examination for Dietitian Nutritionists is a three-hour, computer-based test consisting of 125 to 145 multiple-choice questions. You must answer every question and can’t skip ahead or return to previous questions.

Scoring and Results

You’ll receive your score report immediately at the testing center when you finish the exam. A scaled score of 25 or higher is required to pass. If you pass, you’ll receive an email from CDR within a few days with information about your new RD credential.

If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after 45 days. Contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration call (312) 899-4859 to request reauthorization.

Exam Preparation Resources

The CDR and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offer several resources to help you prepare:

• eatrightPREP for the RDN Exam – Online course with practice questions and study modules (fee required)
• Comprehensive Study Outline – Available for purchase from CDR’s website
• Registration Examination Handbook – Free download with detailed exam information
• Study groups – Connect with other Alaska test-takers through UAA or local dietetics associations

Study Timeline Recommendation: Plan for 6-12 weeks of dedicated study time, depending on how recently you completed your internship. Most successful test-takers study 10-20 hours per week leading up to the exam.

Apply for State Licensing as a Registered Dietitian in Alaska

Alaska requires all registered dietitians practicing in the state to hold an active state license. Once you’ve passed the CDR exam and received your RD credential, you’re ready to apply for Alaska licensure through the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing.

Alaska Dietitian License Application Process

The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Missing documents or incorrect fees will delay your application.

Required Documents and Materials:

• Completed Alaska Dietitian Application – Available on the state licensing website
• Notarized signature – Your application must be notarized
• Recent passport-style photo – Attach to your application
• Official verification from CDR – Request that CDR send verification directly to Alaska’s licensing board
• Payment – Check or money order payable to the State of Alaska. As of this writing, total fees are $225 ($100 application fee + $125 license fee). Always verify current fees with the licensing board, as costs are subject to change.

Where to Mail Your Application:

State of Alaska
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing
Dietitians and Nutritionists Program
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

CDR Verification Request

You’ll need to contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration separately to request that they send official verification of your registration to the Alaska licensing board. Don’t skip this step – your application can’t be processed without CDR verification.

Contact CDR at:
Phone: (312) 899-4859

Processing Timeline

Alaska’s licensing board typically processes complete applications within 4-6 weeks. You can check your application status by contacting the board directly. Don’t start practicing as a registered dietitian in Alaska until you receive your license – it’s required by law.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting notarization – Your signature must be notarized, or the application will be returned
• Incorrect payment amount – Verify current fees with the licensing board before submitting payment
• Missing photo – Include a recent passport-style photo
• No CDR verification – Request this separately from CDR, not through your application
• Incomplete forms – Answer every question on the application

Maintain Your Alaska License and Apply for Specialty Certifications

Once you’re licensed as a registered dietitian in Alaska, you’ll need to maintain both your state license and your CDR registration through regular renewal and continuing education.

Alaska License Renewal

Alaska requires registered dietitians to renew their licenses every two years on a biennial cycle. Mark your calendar – practicing with an expired license is illegal.

Renewal Requirements:

• Frequency: Every 2 years (biennial renewal on your birth month)
• Renewal fee: $125 (verify current fees with licensing board, as costs may change)
• Methods: Online through the licensing portal or by mail using the renewal form
• Continuing education: Must maintain CDR registration (see below)

Renewal Address (if mailing):

State of Alaska
Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing
Dietitian Licensing Program
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806

CDR Registration Maintenance

The Commission on Dietetic Registration requires renewal every five years. During each five-year period, you must complete 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs).

CPE Requirements Breakdown:

• Total required: 75 CPEUs per 5-year cycle
• Self-directed learning: Maximum of 45 CPEUs
• Approved activities: Courses, webinars, conferences, professional reading
• Documentation: Keep records of all CPE activities

Finding CPE Activities in Alaska:

Search the CDR’s online CPE database for approved continuing professional education (CPE) activities. Many Alaska RDs complete CPE through online webinars, virtual conferences, and self-study courses. The Alaska Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics often offers local opportunities for networking and continuing education.

Specialty Certifications

Advancing your career often means specializing in a specific area of nutrition. The CDR offers Board Certified Specialist credentials that can help you stand out in the job market and work with specific populations.

Bonus: Earning any CDR specialty certification during your five-year renewal period automatically fulfills your entire 75 CPEU requirement. This makes specialty certifications a smart way to advance your career while meeting your continuing education obligations.

Nutritionist Licensing in Alaska

Alaska also licenses nutritionists who don’t hold the registered dietitian credential. If you’re interested in this alternative pathway, Alaska recognizes several certifications for nutritionist licensure.

Alaska accepts these credentials for nutritionist licensure:

• Diplomate of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition (DACBN) – Requires doctorate in healthcare, 300 hours postgraduate nutrition education, two years experience, and passing the ACBN exam
• Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) – Requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition or related field, specific coursework, 1,000 supervised practice hours, and passing the CBNS exam
• Master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition from a regionally accredited institution, plus a 900-hour internship in human nutrition

Application Details:

Nutritionist applicants submit the same application form as dietitians but include documentation of their qualifying credentials instead of CDR verification. Always verify the current fees with the licensing board before submitting payment, as costs are subject to change.

For complete details on becoming a licensed nutritionist in Alaska, including all pathway options and specific requirements, view the comprehensive guide on Alaska nutritionist certification.

Nutrition Careers and Salary in Alaska

Alaska’s unique healthcare environment creates diverse opportunities for registered dietitians. From traditional hospital settings to innovative telehealth roles serving remote villages, RDs play a crucial role in enhancing health outcomes across the state.

Alaska Dietitian Salary Data

Alaska offers competitive compensation for registered dietitians, with some of the highest wages in the nation for nonmetropolitan areas.

Alaska’s nonmetropolitan region ranks among the highest-paying areas in the country for dietitians and nutritionists. Rural and remote positions often come with higher salaries to compensate for the unique challenges of practicing in isolated communities.

Where Alaska RDs Work

Registered dietitians in Alaska find employment in diverse settings, many unique to the state’s geography and population:

• Hospitals and Medical Centers – Clinical nutrition in facilities like Alaska Native Medical Center, Providence Alaska Medical Center, and regional hospitals
• Long-Term Care Facilities – Skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities serving Alaska’s aging population
• Alaska Native Health Organizations – Tribal health clinics, regional health corporations, and community health centers
• Military Installations – Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and other defense facilities
• Schools and Universities – School nutrition programs, university wellness centers, and campus dining services
• Telehealth and Remote Services – Virtual nutrition counseling for patients in rural and remote Alaska
• Public Health Departments – State and local health agencies, WIC programs, community nutrition initiatives
• Private Practice – Independent nutrition counseling businesses, often including telehealth services
• Food Service Management – Healthcare facility food services, corporate dining, catering operations

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of dietitians and nutritionists will grow 7% nationally from 2022 to 2032, at about the same rate as the average for all occupations. While Alaska-specific projections aren’t published, the state’s rural health needs and unique healthcare challenges likely support steady demand for qualified nutrition professionals who can work with diverse populations and in remote settings.

Working as an RD in Alaska: What Makes It Unique

Practicing as a registered dietitian in Alaska comes with opportunities and challenges you won’t find in the Lower 48. Understanding these factors will help you decide if Alaska is the right place to build your career.

Alaska Native Health and Traditional Foods

Alaska Native populations have distinct nutritional needs that are rooted in their traditional food systems. RDs working with these communities require cultural competency in areas such as subsistence foods, traditional preparation methods, and the impact of food insecurity in rural Alaska.

Many positions with Alaska Native health organizations focus on balancing traditional foods with modern nutrition science. You’ll work with foods like salmon, seal, whale, berries, and greens that aren’t part of standard nutrition education.

Remote and Rural Practice

Alaska’s vast geography means many communities are accessible only by plane or boat. Some RD positions involve travel to remote villages, either in person or through telehealth platforms. You may want to consult with community health aides or train local staff to implement nutrition programs.

Remote practice requires independence, creativity, and adaptability. You’ll often work with limited resources and need to tailor recommendations to what’s actually available in isolated communities.

Telehealth Opportunities

Alaska leads the nation in telehealth adoption for healthcare delivery. Many RDs practice exclusively through virtual platforms, providing nutrition counseling to patients across the state without needing to leave Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Telehealth positions offer flexibility and the chance to impact patients who would otherwise have no access to dietitian services. Alaska’s licensure laws support the practice of telehealth within the state.

Military and Federal Employment

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson employs civilian and military dietitians. These positions often come with federal benefits and the opportunity to serve military families and active-duty personnel.

Seasonal Considerations

Alaska’s extreme seasonal variations affect everything from food availability to patient access to care. Winter darkness, summer midnight sun, and seasonal affective disorder all impact nutrition counseling approaches. You’ll need to understand how Alaska’s unique environment affects eating behaviors and mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Alaska?

The complete timeline now typically takes 6-7 years, due to the requirement for a master’s degree. This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s degree (some complete this during internship), 9-12 months for the dietetic internship, and 2-3 months for exam preparation and licensing. Some students complete coordinated master’s programs that integrate the internship with graduate education, which can shorten the timeline.

What is the average salary for dietitians in Alaska?

As of May 2024, registered dietitians in Alaska earned an average annual salary of $84,150. Salaries vary by location and setting, with nonmetropolitan areas offering the highest average at $89,590 and Anchorage metro averaging $82,120. Experience, specialty certifications, and work setting all impact earning potential.

Does Alaska require a license to practice as a registered dietitian?

Yes, Alaska requires all registered dietitians practicing in the state to hold an active state license. You can’t legally practice dietetics in Alaska without both your CDR registration and state licensure. The application process requires verification from CDR, a notarized application, and payment of licensing fees. Always verify current fees with the licensing board as costs may change.

How much does it cost to get licensed as an RD in Alaska?

As of this writing, total licensing costs are approximately $425, which includes the CDR exam fee ($200) and Alaska state licensing fees (currently $100 application + $125 license = $225). This doesn’t include any verification fees charged by CDR for sending documentation. Always verify current fees with both the CDR and the Alaska licensing board, as costs are subject to change.

Can I work remotely as an Alaska-licensed dietitian?

Yes, Alaska supports telehealth practice for licensed dietitians. Many RDs provide nutrition counseling virtually to patients throughout Alaska. You’ll need an Alaska license to practice telehealth with Alaska residents, even if you’re physically located in another state. Some positions are entirely remote, while others combine in-person and virtual care.

What’s the difference between an RD and a nutritionist in Alaska?

In Alaska, registered dietitians hold CDR registration after completing ACEND-accredited education (which now includes a master’s degree), a supervised internship, and passing the CDR exam. Licensed nutritionists may hold different credentials, such as CNS or DACBN certification. Both require state licensure to practice, but the educational pathways and credentials differ. RDs can work in any nutrition setting, while the scope of practice for nutritionists may vary.

Can I transfer my RD license from another state to Alaska?

Alaska recognizes CDR registration from other states, so if you’re already a registered dietitian elsewhere, you can apply for Alaska licensure by endorsement. You’ll still need to complete the Alaska application, pay licensing fees, and have CDR send verification. No additional exams are required if you hold current CDR registration.

Are there jobs for registered dietitians in rural Alaska?

Yes, rural Alaska has consistent demand for RDs, particularly through Alaska Native health organizations and telehealth positions. Rural jobs often pay higher salaries ($89,590 average) to compensate for remote locations. Some positions involve travel to villages, while others provide virtual services from urban locations. These roles offer unique opportunities to work with underserved populations.

Do I need to complete my internship in Alaska?

No, you can complete your dietetic internship anywhere in the United States as long as the program is ACEND-accredited. Alaska accepts internships from all accredited programs. Many Alaska-based RDs completed their internships out of state before moving to Alaska for work. The key is ACEND accreditation, not location.

How often do I need to renew my Alaska RD license?

Alaska requires license renewal every two years on a biennial cycle, typically due in the month of your birth. The renewal fee is currently $125, though you should verify current fees with the licensing board, as costs may change. You’ll also need to maintain your CDR registration, which renews every five years and requires 75 continuing professional education units during each cycle. Keep track of both renewal dates to ensure you’re always practicing legally.

Key Takeaways

• Master’s degree required: As of January 1, 2024, CDR requires a master’s degree to become a registered dietitian. You’ll need ACEND-accredited education, along with a graduate degree, before taking the registration exam.
• Alaska education options: UAA offers a Didactic Program in Dietetics for foundational coursework and a dietetic internship. You can complete your master’s degree before, during, or after the internship; however, it must be finished before taking the CDR exam.
• Dual credentialing: You need both CDR registration (national) and Alaska state licensure (state-specific) to practice legally as a registered dietitian in Alaska.
• Strong compensation: Alaska RDs earn competitive salaries averaging $84,150 statewide, with nonmetropolitan areas offering the highest wages at $89,590.
• Ongoing requirements: Maintain your credentials through biennial Alaska license renewal (currently $125) and five-year CDR registration renewal (75 CPEUs). Always verify current fees, as costs may change.

Ready to Start Your Journey to Becoming an Alaska Registered Dietitian?

Your path to a rewarding career in nutrition starts with the right education. Explore ACEND-accredited programs that will prepare you for success as a registered dietitian in Alaska.

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.

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.

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