Becoming a registered dietitian in Louisiana requires completing an ACEND-accredited bachelor’s program, finishing a 1200-hour dietetic internship, passing the CDR exam, and applying for Louisiana state licensure as an LDN.
Louisiana requires all dietitians to be licensed through the Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition. Whether you’re a career changer or recent graduate, this comprehensive guide outlines exactly how to become a registered dietitian in Louisiana, from education requirements to state licensure.
As of June 2025, Louisiana has 1,437 active Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) working in hospitals, private practice, schools, and wellness centers across the state.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Louisiana
- Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Louisiana
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Apply for Licensure as a Dietitian in Louisiana
- Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Louisiana
To work as a registered dietitian in Louisiana, you must complete education requirements mandated by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). A master’s degree is now required to sit for the CDR exam, and your program must be accredited by ACEND (Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics).
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.
ACEND-Accredited Programs in Louisiana
Louisiana offers both Coordinated Programs (CP) and Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD). Coordinated programs include all education and supervised practice in one degree, while DPD programs require separate completion of a dietetic internship.
| Institution | Program Type | Degree Offered | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana State University | DPD | BS in Nutrition and Food Science, Concentration in Dietetics | Baton Rouge |
| McNeese State University | DPD | BS in Agricultural Sciences, Concentration in Nutrition & Dietetics | Lake Charles |
| Louisiana Tech University | DPD | BS in Nutrition & Dietetics, Registered Dietitian Concentration | Ruston |
| Nicholls State University | DPD | BS in Dietetics | Thibodaux |
Core coursework includes biological sciences, chemistry, food science, medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and research methods. Students also complete courses in psychology, management, and communication studies.
Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in Louisiana
After completing your bachelor’s degree, you must complete 1200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-approved dietetic internship. Louisiana offers several excellent DI programs with different specializations and formats.
| Program | Duration | Format | Specialty Focus | Graduate Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University | 17 months | Full-time | Community Nutrition | 36 credit hours |
| Southern University and A&M College | 10 months | Full-time | Clinical & Community Nutrition | 12 credit hours |
| North Oaks Health System | 12 months | Part-time (24 hrs/week) | Medical Nutrition Therapy | Non-degree |
| McNeese State University | 18 months | Full-time | Clinical & Foodservice | MS in Health & Human Performance |
| Tulane University | 10 months | Full-time | Community Nutrition | Non-degree |
| Louisiana Tech University | 11 months | Full-time | Medical Nutrition Therapy | 15 credit hours certificate |
| Nicholls State University | Full-time | Full-time | Clinical, Community & Foodservice | Graduate certificate |
Dietetic internship applications are submitted through DMAS (Dietetic Matching and Assignment System) during designated periods. Competition is intense, with only about 50% of applicants matched nationwide.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
After completing your dietetic internship, you’re eligible to take the CDR’s Registration Examination for Dietitians. This computerized exam consists of 125-145 multiple-choice questions covering food and nutrition sciences, food service systems management, community nutrition, and clinical nutrition.
Exam Details:
- Duration: 3 hours
- Cost: $200
- Passing Score: 25 out of 50 points
- Results: Immediate upon completion
Louisiana Testing Centers:
- Baton Rouge – 5555 Hilton Ave, Suite 430
- Baton Rouge – 4000 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Suite 503
- Metairie – 2800 Veterans Blvd., Suite 256
- New Orleans – 1615 Poydras Street, Suite 920
Apply for Licensure as a Dietitian in Louisiana
Louisiana law requires all dietitians to hold state licensure as a Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN). You cannot practice without this license, even with your RD credential.
Licensure Requirements:
- Current CDR registration as RD/RDN
- Completed application with required documentation
- Background check
- Licensure fees ($60-88 depending on renewal method)
Apply online through the Louisiana Board of Examiners in Dietetics and Nutrition portal. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks once all requirements are submitted.
Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
Maintaining your credentials requires ongoing commitment to professional development:
Louisiana LDN License Renewal:
- Annual renewal required
- 15 hours of continuing education yearly
- Renewal fees: $60-88
- Online renewal available
CDR Registration Renewal:
- 75 hours of continuing professional education every 5 years
- Portfolio development required
- Registration fees apply
Consider pursuing specialty certifications in areas like sports nutrition, diabetes education, or pediatric nutrition to enhance career opportunities and expertise.
Louisiana Dietitian Salary and Job Market
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, registered dietitians and nutritionists in Louisiana earn competitive salaries with strong job growth projected.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $60,780 | 25th percentile |
| Mid-Career | $72,790 | 50th percentile (median) |
| Experienced | $96,160 | 90th percentile |
Regional Salary Variations:
- New Orleans metro: $74,330 average
- Baton Rouge metro: $72,530 average
- Statewide average: $72,790
Louisiana dietitians work in diverse settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, private practice, wellness centers, and food industry companies. The Louisiana Dietetic Association reports strong demand for qualified professionals, particularly in clinical and community nutrition roles.
Alternative Path: Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)
If you’re interested in nutrition but prefer a shorter educational path, consider becoming a Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR). DTRs complete 2-year associate degree programs and 450 hours of supervised practice, then pass the DTR exam.
While Louisiana doesn’t have DTR programs, nearby states offer accredited options, and several distance education programs are available for Louisiana residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Louisiana?
Typically 5-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 10-18 months for dietetic internship, plus time for exam and licensure applications. Master’s degree requirements may extend this timeline.
Can I practice as a nutritionist in Louisiana without RD credentials?
No. Louisiana requires all nutrition professionals to be licensed as LDNs, which requires RD credentials from CDR. View our guide on how to become a nutritionist in Louisiana for complete requirements.
What’s the difference between RD and RDN?
Both credentials are identical and interchangeable. The Commission on Dietetic Registration allows practitioners to use either “Registered Dietitian (RD)” or “Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)” – it’s personal preference.
How competitive are Louisiana dietetic internships?
Very competitive. Louisiana programs typically receive 200-300 applications for 8-12 positions. Strong GPA (3.5+), relevant experience, and well-written personal statements are essential.
Can I complete my dietetic internship in another state?
Yes. ACEND-accredited internships from any state qualify for Louisiana licensure, as long as you meet all other CDR and state requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana requires both CDR registration (RD/RDN) and state licensure (LDN) to practice
- A master’s degree is now required for new dietitians starting the credentialing process
- Seven dietetic internship programs in Louisiana offer various specializations and formats
- Louisiana dietitians earn competitive salaries with a median income of $72,790 annually
- A strong job market exists across clinical, community, and foodservice nutrition settings
Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career?
Take the first step toward becoming a registered dietitian in Louisiana. Research accredited nutrition programs and start planning your educational pathway today.
Find Accredited Nutrition Programs
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.
