To become a registered dietitian in Kansas, you need a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program (required as of 2024), complete 1,200 hours of supervised practice, pass the CDR Registration Exam, and obtain Kansas state licensure through KDADS. The process typically takes 6-7 years, and Kansas RDs earn an average annual salary of $68,710.
Becoming a registered dietitian in Kansas requires dedication, advanced education, and a commitment to helping people improve their health through nutrition. As of 2024, new dietitians are required to hold a graduate degree before taking the national certification exam. This change reflects the evolving complexity of nutrition science, positioning registered dietitians as advanced healthcare professionals.
According to the latest available data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas employed approximately 970 registered dietitians and nutritionists as of May 2024. These professionals work in hospitals, schools, private practice, public health agencies, and research institutions. The Kansas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the Kansas Dietetic Association) has supported dietetic professionals across the state for over 88 years, providing resources, continuing education, and professional networking opportunities.
I suppose you’re ready to pursue a rewarding career helping Kansans achieve optimal health through evidence-based nutrition guidance. In that case, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of becoming a licensed registered dietitian in Kansas.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education Requirements in Kansas
- Apply for and Complete Your Dietetic Internship
- Pass the CDR Registration Examination
- Apply for Kansas Dietitian Licensure
- Maintain Your License and Registration
Complete Registered Dietitian Education Requirements in Kansas
The educational pathway to becoming a registered dietitian underwent significant changes in 2024. As of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) requires all new registered dietitians to hold a minimum of a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program. This graduate degree requirement elevates the profession and ensures that dietitians possess the advanced knowledge and research skills necessary for modern practice.
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
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.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
2024 Graduate Degree Requirement
To be eligible for the CDR registration exam, you must complete a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral) from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting body. The program must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). While the master’s degree doesn’t have to be specifically in nutrition or dietetics, most students pursue degrees closely related to the field to ensure they meet all didactic requirements.
Educational Program Options
There are two main pathways to meet the education requirement:
Coordinated Programs (CP) combine graduate coursework with supervised practice experience in a single program. These programs integrate 1,200 hours of supervised practice with graduate-level coursework, allowing you to complete both requirements simultaneously. Upon graduation, you receive your master’s degree and are eligible to take the CDR exam.
Didactic Programs followed by Graduate Programs allow you to complete a bachelor’s degree in dietetics or nutrition, then pursue a separate master’s degree while completing supervised practice through a dietetic internship. This pathway offers flexibility in choosing your graduate program focus.
ACEND-Accredited Programs in Kansas
Kansas State University – Manhattan offers ACEND-accredited programs in dietetics:
- Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) – Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, available in both on-campus and online formats
- Master’s programs in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management
Students complete foundational coursework in human nutrition, biochemistry, food science, medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and foodservice management. Graduate students engage in advanced coursework, including nutrition research methods, advanced medical nutrition therapy, and evidence-based practice.
Required Coursework
Both undergraduate and graduate nutrition programs require coursework in:
| Subject Area | Example Courses |
|---|---|
| Sciences | Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology |
| Nutrition Science | Basic Human Nutrition, Nutrient Metabolism, Life Span Nutrition, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Nutrition Assessment |
| Food & Management | Food Science, Food Production Management, Financial Management in Dietetics |
| Research & Statistics | Statistics, Research Methods in Dietetics, Evidence-Based Practice |
| Communication | Public Speaking, Counseling Strategies in Dietetics, and Professional Communication |
Apply for and Complete Your Dietetic Internship
Completing supervised practice through a dietetic internship (DI) is required to become a registered dietitian. As of 2024, you must complete a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice in various nutrition and dietetics settings. These hours may be completed through a traditional dietetic internship or within a coordinated program of study.
Dietetic Internship in Kansas
University of Kansas Medical Center – Kansas City offers an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship with multiple options:
- Dietetic Internship Graduate Certificate – 10-month full-time program requiring 1,240 hours of supervised practice plus 24 graduate credit hours with emphasis in medical nutrition therapy
- Master of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition – Combines supervised practice with graduate coursework in behavioral, clinical, and biochemical aspects of nutrition.
- Dietetics and Integrative Medicine Graduate Certificate – 12 web-based credit hours focusing on integrative approaches to nutrition care
- Ph.D. in Medical Nutrition Science – Advanced research-focused program preparing graduates to conduct nutrition research and statistical analysis
The internship experience includes rotations in clinical nutrition (hospital and long-term care facilities), community nutrition (public health agencies and WIC programs), and foodservice management (healthcare facilities and schools). Interns work with preceptors who are experienced registered dietitians, gaining hands-on experience in nutrition assessment, medical nutrition therapy, patient counseling, and community education.
Application Process
Most dietetic internships participate in computer matching through D&D Digital, a centralized application system. The matching process is competitive, with acceptance rates varying by program. Strong academic performance, relevant volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and a well-written personal statement all strengthen your application.
Pass the CDR Registration Examination
After completing your graduate degree and supervised practice, you’re eligible to take the CDR Registration Examination for Dietitians. This computer-based exam is the final step to earning your RD (Registered Dietitian) or RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) credential.
Exam Format and Content
The CDR exam is a three-hour computerized test consisting of 125-145 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 125 questions for the exam to be scored. Questions cannot be skipped or changed once they have been answered, so careful consideration is essential.
The exam covers four content domains:
| Domain | Coverage | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Dietetics | Evidence-based practice, research methods, and professional standards | 15% |
| Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups | Nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation | 40% |
| Management of Food and Nutrition Services | Foodservice operations, safety, quality improvement, and human resources | 15% |
| Application of Research | Research design, data analysis, application of evidence to practice | 30% |
Registration and Testing Locations
Register for the exam through the Pearson VUE website. The exam fee is $200 and is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Kansas, including locations in:
- Hays – 205 E. 7th St., Suite 237, Hadley Center
- Overland Park – 8700 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 120, Corporate Woods, Bldg. 3
- Topeka – 4125 SW Gage Center Drive, Suite 201, Gage Center Office Suites
- Wichita – 7701 E. Kellogg, Suite 750, Equity Financial Center
Scoring and Results
Your score appears on-screen immediately after you complete the exam. Scores are reported on a scale from 1 to 50, and you must achieve a minimum score of 25 to pass. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you must wait at least 45 days before retaking the exam.
Passing the CDR exam earns you the RD (Registered Dietitian) or RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. This national credential is recognized nationwide and is required for licensure in Kansas.
Apply for Kansas Dietitian Licensure
Kansas requires all dietitians to be licensed through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Health Occupations Credentialing. You cannot practice as a dietitian or use protected titles without a valid Kansas license.
Licensure Requirements
To apply for your Kansas dietitian license, you must:
- Hold a valid RD or RDN credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration
- Have completed an ACEND-accredited educational program
- Have completed the required supervised practice hours
- Have passed the CDR Registration Examination
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be a U.S. citizen or legally authorized to work in the United States
Application Process
Download the Application for Kansas Dietitian License from the KDADS website. Your application must include:
| Required Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $140 (check or money order payable to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services) |
| Social Security Card | Copy of your Social Security card |
| Official Transcripts | Sent directly from your institution(s) to KDADS Health Occupations Credentialing |
| CDR Registration Card | Copy of your current CDR registration card showing your RD or RDN credential |
| Notarized Application | The application requires notarization before submission |
Mail all the necessary documents and payment to:
KDADS Health Occupations Credentialing
503 S Kansas Ave, Suite 300C
Topeka, KS 66603
Phone: (785) 296-0061
Fax: (785) 296-3075
Once your application is approved, you’re authorized to practice as a licensed dietitian in Kansas and use the LD (Licensed Dietitian) credential.
Maintain Your License and Registration
Both your Kansas state license and your CDR national registration require ongoing maintenance through continuing professional education and periodic renewal.
Kansas Dietitian License Renewal
Your Kansas dietitian license expires biennially (every two years). To maintain your license:
- Complete a minimum of 15 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) during each two-year period
- Renew your license online through the KDADS renewal portal
- Pay the renewal fee of $135
- Maintain documentation of all CPE activities (you may be randomly selected for audit)
Approved CPE Topics for Kansas
Kansas accepts continuing education in the following areas:
- Nutrition Services – Screening, assessment, monitoring, intervention planning, clinical nutrition
- Foodservice Systems – Food planning, production, service distribution, sanitation, safety, facility management
- Management – Personnel management, financial management, resource procurement, marketing
- Education and Communication – Assessment, program development, implementation, evaluation
- Research – Program evaluation, professional standards
Ways to Earn CPE Credits
You can earn continuing education credits through:
- Workshops, seminars, and conferences
- Journal club meetings
- College coursework from accredited institutions
- Preparing and presenting seminars, lectures, or workshops
- Publishing articles or books in nutrition-related fields
- Self-study programs (video, audio, web-based, or journal articles)
- Poster presentations at professional conferences
- Initial specialty certifications (CNSD, CSSD, CSP, CSR, CSO)
Maintaining Your CDR Registration
Your CDR registration as an RD or RDN must be renewed every five years. During that time, you must:
- Complete 75 hours of continuing professional education units (CPEUs)
- Maintain a Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) documenting your learning activities
- Submit renewal through the CDR online system
- Pay the CDR renewal fee
The Kansas CPE hours you complete for state licensure renewal count toward your CDR renewal requirement, so you’re essentially completing one set of continuing education that satisfies both requirements.
Registered Dietitian Careers and Salary in Kansas
According to the latest available data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas employed approximately 970 registered dietitians and nutritionists as of May 2024. Registered dietitians in Kansas work in diverse settings, including:
- Clinical Settings – Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics
- Community and Public Health – WIC programs, county health departments, community wellness centers
- Private Practice – Individual nutrition counseling, medical nutrition therapy, specialized practice areas
- Education and Research – Universities, research institutions, teaching hospitals
- Foodservice Management – Healthcare facilities, schools, universities, corporate dining
- Sports and Wellness – Athletic programs, fitness centers, corporate wellness programs
Kansas Registered Dietitian Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas registered dietitians and nutritionists earned competitive salaries as of May 2024:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Average (All Experience Levels) | $68,710 |
| Entry-Level/Early Career (25th percentile) | $60,340 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $86,590+ |
| Wichita Metro Area Average | $67,890 |
Salaries vary based on specialization, practice setting, years of experience, advanced certifications, and geographic location. Dietitians with specialty credentials (such as Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition or Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics) often earn higher salaries.
Career Growth Opportunities
Experienced registered dietitians in Kansas can pursue advanced roles such as:
- Clinical Nutrition Manager or Director of Nutrition Services
- Specialty practice in oncology, renal, pediatric, or eating disorders
- Public Health Nutrition Coordinator or Program Director
- Nutrition Research Scientist
- University Faculty or Internship Director
- Private Practice Owner or Consultant
For those interested in pursuing a career in nutrition at various educational levels, you can learn how to become a nutritionist in Kansas here, which has multiple academic and licensure requirements compared to the registered dietitian pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Kansas?
With the 2024 graduate degree requirement, becoming a registered dietitian typically takes 6-7 years. This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for a master’s degree (which may consist of supervised practice hours), and several months to prepare for and take the CDR exam and obtain licensure.
Do I need a master’s degree to become a registered dietitian in the state of Kansas?
Yes, as of January 1, 2024, the CDR requires a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible for the registration examination. This requirement applies to individuals who become eligible for the first time on or after January 1, 2024. Those who became eligible before this date are not required to obtain a graduate degree.
Can I practice as a dietitian in Kansas without a license?
No, Kansas law requires licensure to practice as a dietitian or use protected titles such as “dietitian” or “licensed dietitian.” Practicing without a license is illegal and subject to penalties.
What is the cost to become licensed in Kansas?
The initial licensure application fee is $140. The CDR exam costs $200. Additional costs include tuition for your graduate degree and dietetic internship, which vary by institution. Biennial license renewal costs $135.
Is the Kansas dietitian license recognized in other states?
While your CDR registration (RD or RDN credential) is nationally recognized, each state has its own licensing requirements. Many states have reciprocity agreements or recognize licenses from other states, but you should check specific requirements for any state where you plan to practice.
What’s the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist in Kansas?
Registered dietitians must complete specific education requirements (including a graduate degree as of 2024), supervised practice, pass a national exam, and maintain state licensure. The term “nutritionist” is not protected in Kansas, and requirements vary. Registered dietitians are authorized to provide medical nutrition therapy and work in clinical settings.
Can I complete my dietetic internship while working?
Some dietetic internships offer part-time or distance options that may accommodate working professionals, but many internships require full-time participation. The University of Kansas Medical Center’s internship is a full-time, 10-month program. Check with individual programs about their scheduling flexibility.
What specialty certifications can Kansas registered dietitians earn?
After gaining experience, you can pursue board certification in specialties including sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), oncology nutrition (CSO), gerontological nutrition (CSG), and obesity and weight management (CSOWM). Kansas dietitians can also become Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCES) or pursue lactation consultant certification (IBCLC).
Does Kansas accept online or distance dietetic programs?
Yes, Kansas accepts ACEND-accredited programs, regardless of whether they are offered in online, on-campus, or hybrid formats. Kansas State University provides online options for its Didactic Program in Dietetics. However, all programs must be ACEND-accredited regardless of delivery format.
What happens if I let my Kansas dietitian license expire?
If your license expires, you enter a late renewal period. After the late renewal period ends, your license is considered lapsed and must be reinstated. Reinstatement requires additional documentation and may necessitate completing missed continuing education hours. Contact KDADS Health Occupations Credentialing for reinstatement procedures.
Key Takeaways
Becoming a registered dietitian in Kansas is a rewarding career path that requires dedication to education and ongoing professional development. Here’s what you need to remember:
- A master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program is required for all new registered dietitians as of January 1, 2024
- Complete 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship or coordinated program
- Pass the CDR Registration Examination ($200 fee) to earn your RD or RDN credential
- Apply for Kansas state licensure through KDADS ($140 initial fee, $135 biennial renewal)
- Maintain 15 hours of CPE every two years for Kansas licensure and 75 hours every five years for CDR registration
- Kansas RDs earn an average of $68,710 annually, with opportunities for specialization and career advancement
- The entire process typically takes 6-7 years from starting your undergraduate degree to becoming licensed
Kansas registered dietitians play a crucial role in healthcare, helping individuals and communities achieve optimal health through evidence-based nutrition interventions. With growing awareness of the impact of nutrition on chronic disease prevention and management, the demand for qualified registered dietitians continues to increase.
Ready to Start Your Registered Dietitian Career in Kansas?
Take the first step toward becoming a registered dietitian by exploring ACEND-accredited programs. Whether you’re just starting your undergraduate education or ready to apply to graduate programs, careful planning will help you successfully navigate this rewarding career path. Connect with academic advisors at Kansas State University or other ACEND-accredited institutions to discuss program options and create your personalized pathway to becoming a registered dietitian.
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
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.
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
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.
