Steps to Become a Registered Dietitian in Connecticut

Connecticut offers excellent opportunities for aspiring registered dietitians, with competitive salaries and a diverse range of practice settings. Suppose you’re interested in becoming a registered dietitian in Connecticut. In that case, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the process, from choosing an accredited program to obtaining your state certification.

The journey to becoming an RD in Connecticut combines rigorous academic preparation, hands-on clinical experience, and professional credentialing. Connecticut provides title protection for dietitians and nutritionists, meaning you cannot legally use these professional titles without state certification. The state certification requires active CDR registration, which in turn requires passing the national RD exam.

Nutrition Careers in Connecticut

As of June 2025, the Commission on Dietetic Registration reported a total of 1,509 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in Connecticut. The state offers exceptional career opportunities for nutrition professionals, with compensation that reflects the high cost of living and strong demand for qualified practitioners.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics ‘ Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), as of May 2024, dietitians and nutritionists in Connecticut earned an average annual salary of $85,190, making Connecticut the seventh-highest-paying state in the nation for registered dietitians. The 25th percentile (early career) wage was approximately $67,400, while the 90th percentile (highly experienced professionals) was at least $104,460.

Registered dietitians in Connecticut find employment in a diverse range of settings, including long-term care facilities, acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools and universities, corporate wellness programs, private practice, government agencies, and research institutions. The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas, including Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford, provides access to prestigious healthcare systems and academic medical centers.

Connecticut provides title protection for dietitians and nutritionists, meaning you cannot legally use these professional titles without state certification. The state requires accreditation before you can practice or advertise services using the protected titles “dietitian,” “licensed dietitian,” “nutritionist,” or “licensed nutritionist.” The scope of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) varies by practice setting and payer requirements.

Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Connecticut

Connecticut law requires all dietitians to become certified by the state before they can legally use the titles “dietitian” or “nutritionist.” State certification requires earning the Registered Dietitian credential through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Education. To qualify for the CDR credential, you must complete Education from programs 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.

Critical 2024 Requirement: As of January 1, 2024, all candidates sitting for the CDR registration exam must hold a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral level) from an ACEND-accredited program. The bachelor’s degree pathway is no longer accepted for new RD candidates. If you completed a bachelor’s degree before 2024, verify your eligibility directly with CDR.

ACEND accredits nutrition and dietetics education programs, ensuring that these programs meet national standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. ACEND-accredited programs prepare you to sit for the CDR registration examination.

ACEND-Accredited Programs in Connecticut

Connecticut offers several pathways to meet the educational requirements for becoming a registered dietitian—note: Program availability, degree offerings, and accreditation status are subject to change periodically. Verify current program details and ACEND accreditation status directly with institutions and through the ACEND Program Directory before applying.

Graduate Programs (Required for 2024+ RD Candidates)

University of Connecticut, Storrs

• Master of Science in Allied Health, Dietetics (Coordinated Program)
• Integrates graduate coursework with supervised practice hours
• Eliminates the need for a separate internship match

Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)

Didactic programs provide the academic foundation for coursework. After completing a DPD, you must apply separately for an ACEND-accredited supervised practicum (dietetic internship or coordinated program) to meet the practice requirement. Students who completed bachelor’s DPDs before 2024 must now pursue additional training to qualify for the RD exam.

University of Connecticut, Storrs

• Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science, Dietetics

University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford

• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

University of New Haven, West Haven

• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics

Important: If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s DPD, you’ll need to complete an additional graduate degree (either before or during your supervised practice) to meet the 2024+ graduate degree requirement.

ACEND-Accredited Programs Leading to Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) Status

An alternative pathway to a nutrition career is becoming a Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (formerly DTR). This option requires less education than the RD pathway. Connecticut offers one ACEND-accredited NDTR program:

Gateway Community College, New Haven

• Associate of Science, Nutrition and Dietetics
• Includes an integrated 450-hour supervised practice component
• Completion makes you eligible for the CDR’s NDTR examination

For more information on selecting the right registered dietitian education program, including comparing different program types and understanding ACEND accreditation requirements, refer to our comprehensive education guide.

Finish Your Connecticut Dietetic Internship (DI)

After completing your didactic coursework (or as part of a graduate coordinated program), you must complete ACEND-accredited supervised practice. As of 2024, CDR requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice (competency-based) to be eligible to sit for the registration exam. Most ACEND-accredited programs provide 1,000–1,200 hours to ensure students meet all required competencies.

Supervised practice offers hands-on experience across various nutrition care settings, including clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management. The ACEND-accredited supervised practice prepares you to apply nutrition knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of credentialed practitioners.

The internship application process is highly competitive, with more applicants than available positions. Most programs participate in the computer matching process through D&D Digital, where you rank your preferred programs and programs rank applicants. Strong academic performance, relevant volunteer or work experience, and compelling letters of recommendation strengthen your application.

Connecticut Dietetic Internship Programs

Connecticut offers several ACEND-accredited supervised practice programs. Note: Program details, including duration, emphasis areas, and format, are subject to change. Please contact the programs directly for current information, application requirements, and availability.

Western Connecticut Health Network Dietetic Internship, Danbury

• Typical duration: 9 months, full-time
• Format: Non-degree-granting certificate
• Emphasis: Medical Nutrition Therapy
• Focus on acute care and clinical nutrition

Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven

• Typical duration: 11 months, full-time
• Format: Non-degree-granting certificate
• Emphasis: Clinical Nutrition Support
• Training in one of the nation’s premier academic medical centers

University of Connecticut, Storrs

• Typical duration: 9.5 months, full-time
• Format: Non-degree-granting certificate
• Emphasis: Urban Issues
• Community-focused with diverse practice settings

University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford

• Typical duration: 9 months, full-time
• Format: Non-degree-granting certificate
• Emphasis: Clinical Nutrition
• Strong focus on medical nutrition therapy across settings

University of New Haven, West Haven

• Typical duration: 10 months, full-time
• Format: Non-degree-granting certificate
• Emphasis: Community and Wellness
• Public health and wellness-focused rotations

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

Your graduate coordinated program or the combination of your graduate education and supervised practice program prepares you for the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians. This computer-based examination assesses your knowledge and competency across all domains of dietetic practice.

Exam Preparation Resources

The Commission on Dietetic Registration provides official study materials to help you prepare:

• Comprehensive Study Outline and Study Guide
• Registration Examination for Dietitians Handbook (available through the CDR website)

These resources outline the exam content domains, provide sample questions, and explain the registration and testing process.

Registration and Scheduling

Register for the exam online through the CDR website. Exam fees are subject to change; verify current pricing on the CDR website before registering. After your payment is processed, Pearson VUE will contact you to schedule your test date and time.

To locate Connecticut testing centers, use the Pearson VUE test center locator. Multiple locations throughout Connecticut typically offer CDR exam appointments, though availability varies by season and location.

Exam Format and Content

The CDR exam is a computer-adaptive test, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on your responses. You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours (150 minutes) to complete between 125 and 145 multiple-choice questions. The exam must include at least 125 answered questions for scoring to occur.

The exam covers four major content domains:

• Principles of Dietetics
• Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups
• Management of Food and Nutrition Programs and Services
• Foodservice Systems

The computer-adaptive format means you can’t skip questions, review previous answers, or change responses. Each question must be answered before proceeding to the next.

Scoring and Results

You’ll receive your unofficial score immediately upon completing the exam at the test center. The exam uses a scaled score from 0 to 50, with a passing score of 25 or higher. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam 45 days after your previous attempt. Contact CDR at [email protected] or call (312) 899-4859 to apply for reauthorization. You’ll need your CDR ID number when registering for a retake.

Apply for Certification as a Registered Dietitian in Connecticut

After passing the CDR examination and earning your Registered Dietitian credential (RD/RDN), you must obtain Connecticut state certification to use the protected titles “dietitian” or “nutritionist” professionally. Connecticut provides title protection, meaning you cannot legally use these titles without state certification.

Connecticut Regulatory Body

The Connecticut Department of Public Health, Practitioner Licensing and Investigations Section regulates dietitian and nutritionist certification in Connecticut. The department processes applications, issues certifications, handles renewals, and enforces title protection laws.

Application Process

Apply for certification through the Connecticut E-License portal. Select “Initial Application for Dietitian/Nutritionist Certification” and complete all required fields.

The application requires:

• Initial certification fee (verify current fee on the Connecticut DPH website before applying)
• Written verification of your CDR registration sent directly from the Commission on Dietetic Registration to the Connecticut Department of Public Health
• Completed application form with all supporting documentation

Processing times vary based on the volume of applications and receipt of verification. Contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health if you have questions about your application status or requirements.

Maintain Your CDR Registration in Connecticut

Connecticut State Certification Renewal

Your Connecticut certification requires annual renewal. The Connecticut Department of Public Health will send you a renewal notification approximately 60 days before your certification expiration. The notification includes instructions for online renewal through the ELicense portal.

Verify current renewal fees on the Connecticut Department of Public Health website before renewing your registration. Connecticut doesn’t require continuing education specifically for state certification renewal, though you must maintain CDR registration

CDR Registration Education

In Connecticut, maintenance of licensure doesn’t require continuing education for state renewal; however, the Commission on Dietetic Registration requires 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs) every five years to maintain your national RD/RDN credential. This includes at least 1 CPEU in ethics. Since Connecticut certification requires active CDR registration, you must keep both credentials to ensure compliance.

The CDR’s Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) system helps you track and document your continuing education activities. Review the PDP Guide for approved CPE activities and documentation requirements.

Connecticut-based and online CPE opportunities are listed in CDR’s online CPE database. Many national webinars, conferences, and self-study programs also provide approved CPEUs.

Specialty Certifications

Many Connecticut-registered dietitians pursue specialty certifications through the CDR’s Board Certified Specialist program to demonstrate expertise in specific practice areas. Popular specialty certifications include:

• Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO)
• Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR)
• Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP)
• Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD)
• Board Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition (CSG)
• Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) through CBDCE

Specialty certification demonstrates advanced knowledge and can increase earning potential and career opportunities in your chosen field.

Timeline to Become an RD in Connecticut

Understanding the time commitment helps you plan your educational and career pathway. The timeline reflects the 2024 and beyond graduate degree requirements for all new RD candidates.

Note: Students who completed bachelor’s-level DPDs before January 2024 may have different timelines. Contact CDR directly to verify your eligibility and requirements under transition policies.

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.

RD/RDN vs. NDTR: Which Path is Right for You?

Connecticut recognizes two CDR credentials in dietetics: Registered Dietitian/Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD/RDN) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR). Understanding the differences helps you choose the right career path that aligns with your goals, timeline, and interests.

Both credentials require Connecticut state certification for title protection and provide rewarding careers in nutrition and dietetics. The RD/RDN pathway offers more independence, higher earning potential, and broader career opportunities, while the NDTR pathway provides faster entry into the field with lower educational investment.

Tips for Success from Connecticut RDs

Connecticut registered dietitians who have navigated this pathway offer valuable insights for aspiring RDs:

• Understand the 2024 Graduate Degree Requirement: All new RD candidates must hold a master’s degree in a field related to education. Plan your educational pathway according to graduate coordinated programs that integrate education and supervised practice.
• Start Planning Early: Begin researching graduate programs during your junior year of undergraduate study. ACEND-accredited programs have specific prerequisite requirements, and graduate program applications typically require GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
• Gain Relevant Experience: Volunteer at hospitals, participate in community nutrition programs, or work in foodservice while completing your undergraduate degree. Practical experience enhances the graduate program and strengthens supervised practice applications.
• Build Professional Connections: Join the Connecticut Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as a student member. Attend state meetings, connect with practicing RDs, and build relationships that can lead to mentorship opportunities and future employment.
• Consider Graduate Coordinated Programs: These programs integrate graduate education with supervised practice, eliminating the need for a separate internship match. This pathway can save time and reduce stress, though admission is highly competitive.
• Prepare for the Supervised Practice Match: If pursuing separate supervised practice, research programs thoroughly. Apply to multiple programs, strengthen your application with relevant experience and strong letters of recommendation, and prepare for the computer matching process through D&D Digital.
• Study Strategically for the CDR Exam: Begin reviewing exam content during your final supervised practice rotation. Create a study schedule, use official CDR study materials, and consider joining or forming an educational group with other exam candidates.
• Explore Specialty Areas: real care and education specialists in various practice settings during your education. Early exposure helps you identify areas of interest and can guide your choices of supervised practice rotations and your eventual career path.
• Maintain Financial Planning: Supervised practice programs vary in stipend availability. Create a financial plan to cover living expenses during this training period. Some students work part-time in food service or related roles, although full-time supervised practice programs may limit outside employment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an RD in Connecticut

Do I need to live in Connecticut to get certified?

No, you don’t need to be a Connecticut resident to apply for certification. You can complete your graduate education and supervised practice anywhere in the United States at ACEND-accredited programs, then apply for Connecticut certification once you pass the CDR exam. Connecticut certification is only required if you plan to practice in the state or use the protected titles “dietitian” or “nutritionist” while working with Connecticut residents.

Can I practice as a nutritionist in Connecticut without being an RD?

Connecticut provides title protection for “dietitian” and “nutritionist,” meaning you cannot legally use these titles professionally without state certification. Connecticut certification requires active CDR registration (RD/RDN or NDTR). Learn more about Connecticut nutritionist requirements to understand the state’s specific regulations and credential pathways.

What if I completed a bachelor’s degree before 2024?

If you completed an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s-level DPD before January 1, 2024, you may have grandfathered eligibility under CDR’s transition policies. Contact CDR directly to Learn About Education’s specific eligibility requirements, timelines, and more. Most candidates completing a bachelor’s degree in Education before 2024 will still need to pursue graduate-level education to meet the new requirement.

How much does it cost to become a registered dietitian in Connecticut?

Total costs include graduate tuition (varies significantly by program and whether you attend public or private institutions), supervised practice program fees if applicable, CDR exam registration fee, and Connecticut certification fees. Verify current fees on the CDR and Connecticut Department of Public Health websites, as payments are subject to periodic changes. Graduate education represents the most significant expense, ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 for in-state public university master’s programs to over $100,000 for private institutions. Financial education scholarships, graduate assistantships, and employer tuition reimbursement help offset costs.

Does Connecticut require continuing education for RDs?

Connecticut doesn’t require continuing education specifically for annual state certification renewal. However, the Commission on Dietetic Registration requires 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs) every five years, including at least 1 CPEU in ethics, to maintain your national RD/RDN credential. Since Connecticut certification requires active CDR registration, you must complete CDR’s continuing education requirements to maintain both credentials.

Can international students become registered dietitians in the state of Connecticut?

Educational students in Connecticut can pursue RD certification. International graduates must have their credentials evaluated through the CDR Educational Dietitian pathway. This process assesses your education against EducationD standards and identifies any additional coursework or supervised practice hours needed before you can take the CDR exam. Contact CDEducation for specific requirements based on your country of education.

What if I don’t match with a supervised practice program on my first attempt?

Not matching with a supervised practice program is common, as the process is highly competitive, with more applicants than available positions. If you don’t match initially, strengthen your application by gaining more relevant experience, obtaining stronger letters of recommendation, and expanding your geographic preferences. Consider distance or part-time programs. Some candidates also complete additional graduate coursework during this time to strengthen future applications and meet career goals.

Can I work while completing supervised practice?

Most full-time supervised practice programs require 40 hours or more per week, making traditional employment difficult. However, many interns work part-time, evenings, weekends, in foodservice, nutrition-related roles, or other flexible positions. Some distance or part-time supervised practice programs allow you to maintain employment while completing requirements, though these programs take longer to complete. Financial planning before your supervised practice period helps you manage this intensive training without needing to rely on full-time employment.

Is there reciprocity for RDs licensed in other states?

Connecticut recognizes RD/RDN credentials from other states as long as you maintain active CDR registration. The application process is the same whether you’re a new graduate or a practicing RD from another state. You’ll need to apply for Connecticut certification through the ELicense portal and have CDR verify your active registration. Processing time varies based on application volume.

Key Takeaways

• Graduate Degree Required (2024+ Rule): All RD/RDN candidates must hold a master’s or doctoral degree from an ACEND-accredited program to sit for the CDR exam as of January 1, 2024. Bachelor’s-only pathways are no longer eligible for new candidates.
• Supervised Practice: Complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of ACEND-accredited supervised practice (competency-based). Most programs provide 1,000-1,200 hours to ensure all competencies are met.
• National Examination: Pass the CDR’s Registration Examination for Dietitians with a scaled score of 25 or higher (0-50 scale). The computer-adaptive exam consists of approximately 125-145 questions, covering a duration of 2.5 hours.
• Connecticut Title Protection: Connecticut provides title protection for “dietitian” and “nutritionist.” You cannot legally use these titles without state certification through the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
• State Certification Process: Apply for education certification in Connecticut through the ELicense portal after passing the CDR exam. Verify current certification fees on the Connecticut DPH website before applying.
• Timeline: The complete process takes 5-7 years, depending on your educational pathway. Graduate coordinated programs that integrate education and supervised practice typically require 5-6 years total.
• Career Outlook: Connecticut RDs earn an average of $85,190 annually (BLS OEWS May 2024 data), ranking Connecticut 7th highest in the nation—the state reports that practicing RDs are as of June 2025.
• Maintenance Requirements: Renew Connecticut certification annually (verify current fee on DPH website). Maintain CDR registration with 75 CPEUs every five years, including at least 1 Education CPEU. Connecticut doesn’t require separate continuing education for state renewal.
• Alternative Pathway: Consider the NDTR (Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered) route if you want faster entry into nutrition careers with an associate degree, although with a more limited scope of practice and lower earning potential than the RD/RDN credential.

Ready to Start Your Connecticut RD Journey?

Connecticut offers excellent graduate education programs and career opportunities for aspiring regisEducationtitians. Whether you’re beginning your undergraduate education or planning your graduate studies, the path to becoming an RD/RDN offers a rewarding profession that helps people achieve health through nutrition.

Explore ACEND-accredited graduate dietitian programs to begin your journey. Compare admission requirements, program formats, and specialization options to find the right fit for your educational goals. Remember that as of 2024, graduate-level education is required for all new RD candidates. Start building your future in nutrition science today.

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 and 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

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