To become a registered dietitian in New Jersey, complete an ACEND-accredited nutrition degree, finish a 1,200-hour dietetic internship, pass the CDR exam, and obtain mandatory state licensure. A master’s degree is required for all candidates taking the CDR exam after January 1, 2024.
New Jersey requires mandatory state licensure for all practicing registered dietitians, making it essential to understand both national registration and state-specific requirements. Under Statute 45:168-1, effective January 2021, all dietitians must be licensed to practice legally in New Jersey. However, holding a current CDR registration as an RD/RDN automatically qualifies you for state licensure. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step to become a registered dietitian in the Garden State, from education through professional practice.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose what situation that best describes you:
- Complete Registered Dietitian Education in New Jersey
- Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in New Jersey
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
- Pursue Membership in Professional Dietary Organizations in New Jersey
Complete Registered Dietitian Education in New Jersey
Both the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and the New Jersey State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition have educational requirements for aspiring registered dietitians. All candidates taking the CDR examination after January 1, 2024, must hold a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program.
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 New Jersey
Coordinated Programs in Dietetics (CP)
Coordinated programs combine academic coursework with supervised practice experience, totaling at least 1,200 hours. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the CDR examination without additional internship requirements.
| Institution | Program Type | Specializations |
|---|---|---|
| Rowan University, Glassboro | Bachelor’s to Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics | Exercise Science and Dietetics |
Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD)
Didactic programs provide the academic foundation but require separate completion of a dietetic internship. New Jersey offers several accredited DPD programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
| Institution | Degree Offered | Program Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Montclair State University | BS/MS in Nutrition and Food Science | Dietetics Concentration |
| Rutgers University, New Brunswick | BS in Nutritional Sciences | Dietetics Option |
| Saint Elizabeth University, Morristown | BS/MS in Foods and Nutrition | Dietetics Concentration |
Alternative State Education Requirements
New Jersey also recognizes degrees in human nutrition, foods and nutrition, dietetics, food systems management, or related fields from regionally accredited institutions. However, this path only qualifies for state licensure, not CDR registration.
Apply for your Dietetic Internship (DI) in New Jersey
Following completion of your didactic program, you must complete a supervised practice experience totaling at least 1,200 hours. New Jersey offers several ACEND-accredited dietetic internship programs with different specializations and formats.
Available Dietetic Internships in New Jersey
| Program | Format | Duration | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Komplete Business DI, Turnersville | Distance Education | Variable | Student-Identified Practice |
| Montclair State University | Full-Time | 10 Months | Nutrition Therapy |
| NutraSource DI, Holmdel | Full-Time | 9 Months | Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy |
| Saint Elizabeth University | Full-Time with Degree | 24 Months | Entrepreneurial Nutrition Practice |
Each internship program requires completion of rotations through clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management. Competitive application processes typically require strong academic performance, relevant experience, and professional references.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
Upon completing your education and supervised practice requirements, you become eligible to sit for the CDR registration examination. This computer-based exam is administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout New Jersey.
New Jersey Testing Locations
- Princeton Testing Center
- Piscataway Testing Center
- Atlantic City Testing Center
- Jersey City Testing Center
Exam Details and Preparation
| Exam Component | Percentage | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Dietetics | 25% | Nutrition Science, Research Methods |
| Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups | 40% | Assessment, Diagnosis, Intervention |
| Management of Food and Nutrition Programs | 21% | Program Planning, Quality Management |
| Foodservice Systems | 14% | Food Safety, Service Management |
The exam consists of 125-145 scored questions plus 25 non-scored questions. Candidates have 2.5 hours to complete the examination and must achieve a minimum score of 25 on a scale of 0-50 to pass. The current exam fee is $225.
Maintain Your Registration and Apply for Specialty Certifications
After successfully passing the CDR exam, you’ll receive your RD/RDN credential and must apply for New Jersey state licensure. Current CDR registration automatically qualifies you for New Jersey dietitian nutritionist licensure under state statute 45:168-1.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your RD/RDN registration, you must complete 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) every five years. New Jersey may implement additional state-specific continuing education requirements for licensure renewal.
Popular Specialty Certifications
- Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) – Advanced diabetes management
- Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) – Specialized nutrition support
- Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) – Sports nutrition expertise
- Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP) – Pediatric nutrition specialization
Pursue Membership in Professional Dietary Organizations in New Jersey
Professional organization membership provides networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and advocacy support for registered dietitians practicing in New Jersey.
Key Professional Organizations
- New Jersey Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – State affiliate providing local networking and advocacy
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – National organization offering resources and certifications
- New Jersey Center for Nutrition Advocacy – Policy and advocacy organization
- Community Food Bank of New Jersey – Community nutrition focus
- New Jersey School Nutrition Association – School-based nutrition programs
New Jersey Registered Dietitian Salary and Job Market
According to the Commission on Dietetic Registration, there were 3,456 registered dietitians and registered dietitian nutritionists in New Jersey as of 2024. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that dietitians and nutritionists in New Jersey earned an average annual salary of $79,240 as of May 2024, ranking among the top-paying states nationally.
New Jersey RD Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $65,000 – $72,000 | $31.25 – $34.62 |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $75,000 – $85,000 | $36.06 – $40.87 |
| Experienced (8+ years) | $88,000 – $102,000 | $42.31 – $49.04 |
Popular Employer Types in New Jersey
- Hospitals and healthcare systems (Robert Wood Johnson, Atlantic Health)
- Long-term care and rehabilitation facilities
- Outpatient clinics and private practice
- School districts and universities
- Corporate wellness programs
- Government agencies and WIC programs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in New Jersey?
The typical timeline is 5-6 years, including a bachelor’s degree (4 years), a master’s degree (1-2 years), and a dietetic internship (6-24 months, depending on format). Some coordinated programs can reduce this timeline by combining education and supervised practice.
Can I practice as a nutritionist in New Jersey without RD credentials?
Yes, but with restrictions. Nutritionists in New Jersey can practice under different credential requirements, but registered dietitians have a broader scope of practice, especially in clinical settings and insurance reimbursement.
Does New Jersey require state licensure in addition to CDR registration?
Yes, New Jersey implemented mandatory licensure in January 2021. However, current CDR registration (RD/RDN) automatically qualifies you for state licensure as a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist.
Does New Jersey require state licensure in addition to CDR registration?
Yes, New Jersey implemented mandatory licensure in January 2021 under Statute 45:168-1. However, current CDR registration (RD/RDN) automatically qualifies you for state licensure as a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, making the process seamless for registered dietitians.
What’s the job outlook for registered dietitians in New Jersey?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth for dietitians and nutritionists nationally through 2032, faster than average for all occupations. New Jersey’s aging population and focus on preventive healthcare create strong demand.
Can I complete my dietetic internship outside New Jersey?
Yes, ACEND-accredited internships from any state meet New Jersey requirements. Many students apply to multiple programs nationwide to increase acceptance chances.
Are there online nutrition degree programs that meet New Jersey requirements?
Yes, several regionally accredited online programs meet educational requirements. However, ensure the program is ACEND-accredited if you plan to pursue CDR registration for the broadest career opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Master’s Degree Required: As of 2024, all CDR candidates must hold a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program
- State Licensure Mandatory: New Jersey requires licensure for all practicing dietitians, but CDR registration automatically qualifies you
- Strong Job Market: New Jersey ranks among the top-paying states for registered dietitians, with diverse employment opportunities
- Multiple Pathways Available: Choose from coordinated programs, didactic programs with separate internships, or distance education options
- Continuing Education Essential: Maintain registration with 75 CPEUs every five years and stay current with state requirements
Ready to Start Your RD Journey in New Jersey?
Take the first step toward your rewarding career as a registered dietitian by exploring accredited nutrition degree programs that align with your goals and timeline. With New Jersey’s strong job market and competitive salaries, now is an excellent time to pursue this growing healthcare profession.
Explore Accredited Nutrition Programs
View how to become a nutritionist in New Jersey 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
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.
