To become a registered dietitian in New Mexico, you must complete an ACEND-accredited master’s degree (required as of 2024), finish a supervised dietetic internship with 1,200+ hours, pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and obtain state licensure through the New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board. The average annual salary is $68,830.
New Mexico requires all practicing dietitians to hold a valid state license through the Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 470 registered dietitians work in New Mexico, with strong career growth projected in the healthcare and public health sectors. The path to licensure involves a combination of rigorous ACEND-accredited education, supervised practice experience, and national credentialing.
Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:
- Complete ACEND-Accredited Dietetics Education in New Mexico
- Apply for and Complete Your Dietetic Internship (DI)
- Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
- Apply for New Mexico State Dietitian Licensure
- Maintain Your CDR Registration and State License
Complete ACEND-Accredited Dietetics Education in New Mexico
The New Mexico Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board requires a current Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credential to qualify for state licensure. To earn your CDR registration, you must complete a dietetic education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
Critical 2024 Requirement: As of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration requires all new registered dietitians to hold a minimum of a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program to be eligible for the CDR exam. If you’re starting your education now or graduated with only a bachelor’s degree, you must complete a graduate-level program before becoming eligible for credentialing and state licensure.
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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
ACEND-Accredited Programs in New Mexico
New Mexico offers ACEND-approved educational pathways at the undergraduate level, but you’ll need to continue to graduate education to meet current credentialing requirements:
Coordinated Programs (CCPs) combine graduate coursework with a built-in supervised internship component, fulfilling both educational and experiential requirements within a single, integrated program.
Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) provide academic coursework at the undergraduate level. After completing a DPD bachelor’s degree, you must complete a graduate program (which may be combined with your dietetic internship) before becoming eligible for the CDR exam.
| Institution | Program Type | Degree Offered | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Mexico, Albuquerque | DPD | Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics | Must complete a graduate degree and an internship after graduation to meet the 2024 requirements |
| New Mexico State University, Las Cruces | DPD | Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition & Dietetic Science, Dietetics Option | Prepares for graduate-level study and DI application |
Important Planning Note: While New Mexico’s universities offer excellent DPD programs at the bachelor’s level, these alone do not meet the current credentialing requirements for the profession. You’ll need to either pursue a coordinated master’s program elsewhere or complete your bachelor’s degree in New Mexico, then apply to graduate programs that combine a master’s degree with the required dietetic internship.
Alternative Path: Nutritionist Licensure in New Mexico
New Mexico also licenses nutritionists through the Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board. To qualify for a nutritionist license, you must possess a master’s or doctorate from a regionally accredited institution in human nutrition, nutrition education, foods and nutrition, or public health nutrition. You’ll also need a valid membership in either the American Clinical Board of Nutrition or the American Society for Nutrition. You must pass an examination related to entry-level nutrition practice.
Apply for and Complete Your Dietetic Internship (DI)
Upon successful completion of your ACEND-accredited degree program, you must apply for and complete a competitive dietetic internship. Your DI must be ACEND-accredited and include a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice in various nutrition and dietetics settings. This hands-on experience is where you’ll develop the clinical, community, and foodservice management competencies required for entry-level practice.
ACEND-Accredited Dietetic Internships in New Mexico
| Institution | Program Format | Duration | Degree Option | Emphasis Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Mexico, Albuquerque | Full-time | 9 months | Non-degree | Clinical dietetics |
| New Mexico State University, Las Cruces | Full-time | 24 months | Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences | Community nutrition in cooperative extension service |
The University of New Mexico offers a faster track for those who already hold a graduate degree. At the same time, New Mexico State University provides the opportunity to earn your master’s degree concurrently with your internship experience. Both programs offer excellent preparation for the CDR examination and professional practice.
Application Process: Most dietetic internships use the centralized D&D Digital matching system. Competition is intense, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 50% to 60% nationally. Strong academic performance, relevant experience, and compelling application materials are essential.
Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
Upon completing your dietetic internship, you become eligible to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination. Passing this national credentialing exam is required for both CDR registration and New Mexico state licensure.
CDR Exam Registration and Preparation
Your DI program director will notify the CDR of your eligibility once you complete your internship. Within a few days, you’ll receive an email from Pearson VUE, the company contracted to administer the CDR exam, with instructions for registering and paying the $200 examination fee. You have 365 days from the date of receiving this notification to schedule and take your exam.
Exam Preparation Resources:
- Comprehensive Study Outline and Study Guide from CDR
- Registration Examination for Dietitians Handbook for Candidates
- Review courses and practice exams from Jean Inman, Inman Review, or RD Exam resources
Exam Day Details
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based, multiple-choice |
| Number of Questions | 125-145 questions (25 are unscored pretest items) |
| Time Allowed | 2.5 hours |
| Scoring Scale | 0-50 scale |
| Passing Score | 25 or higher |
| New Mexico Test Centers | Albuquerque (additional locations in nearby states) |
| Required Items | Pearson VUE confirmation email, government-issued photo ID |
| Results | Immediate (view by clicking the “report” button after completion) |
If You Don’t Pass: You may retake the exam, but you must wait at least 45 days and receive reauthorization from CDR. Contact CDR at 1-800-877-1600 for retesting requirements and additional preparation guidance.
Apply for New Mexico State Dietitian Licensure
After receiving your CDR registration credential, you’re ready to apply for New Mexico state licensure. State licensure is legally required to practice as a dietitian in New Mexico. The Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board, within the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, oversees the licensing process.
Licensure Application Requirements
Complete the Licensure Application and have it notarized. Submit your application with the following:
- Application and Initial License Fee: $200 total ($50 application fee + $150 initial license fee), payable to the Nutrition and Dietetics Board
- Proof of CDR Registration: A certified copy of your current CDR credential card
- Notarized Application: Your completed application form must be notarized before submission
Mail completed application and supporting documents to:
New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department
Boards and Commissions Division
Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board
5500 San Antonio Drive NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109
For the most current application forms and detailed instructions, visit the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department Nutrition and Dietetic Practice Board website.
Maintain Your CDR Registration and State License
Both your CDR registration and New Mexico state license require ongoing maintenance through continuing education and periodic renewal.
New Mexico License Renewal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Renewal Frequency | Annual (one year from issuance date) |
| Renewal Method | Online or via a paper renewal form |
| Renewal Fee | $75 |
| Continuing Education | Minimum 15 clock hours annually |
| CDR Registration Proof | A current CDR credential is required for renewal |
| CE Carryover | Excess hours beyond 15 may be carried to the next renewal period |
CDR Registration Renewal
The Commission on Dietetic Registration requires 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) during each five-year renewal period. If you meet New Mexico’s 15-hour annual requirement (15 hours × 5 years = 75 hours), you’ll automatically satisfy the CDR renewal requirement as well.
Approved Continuing Education Examples in New Mexico:
- NaSCEND Essentials Conference by Kendra Schreiner (7.0 CPEUs)
- Nutritional Psychiatry: Your Brain on Food by MED 2000 (6.0 CPEUs)
- CDR-approved online learning modules
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics continuing education programs
- Professional conferences and workshops
Pursuing Board Certified Specialist Credentials in New Mexico
Many registered dietitians choose to pursue advanced Board Certified Specialist credentials to demonstrate expertise in specific practice areas. These specialty certifications enhance your marketability, often lead to higher salaries, and help fulfill your CDR continuing education requirements.
Requirements for all CDR specialist certifications:
- Maintain an active RD/RDN status with CDR for at least two years before application
- Document 2,000 hours of practice experience in the specialty area within the past five years
- Pass a specialty certification examination
- Recertify every five years (most require 2,000 additional practice hours, an application fee, and an exam)
Available CDR Board Certified Specialist Credentials:
- Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) – Focus on cancer care and nutrition support for oncology patients
- Board Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition (CSG) – Expertise in nutrition for older adults and aging populations
- Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSP) – Specialization in infant, child, and adolescent nutrition
- Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR) – Focus on nutrition therapy for kidney disease and dialysis patients
- Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) – Athletic performance, sports nutrition, and exercise metabolism (requires 1,000 hours for recertification)
Registered Dietitian Salary and Career Outlook in New Mexico
New Mexico offers competitive compensation for registered dietitians, with salaries reflecting the state’s cost of living and healthcare needs. According to the most recent estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 470 registered dietitians work throughout New Mexico in hospitals, outpatient clinics, public health agencies, and private practice settings.
New Mexico Dietitian Salary Data
| Location | Average Annual Salary | Entry-Level (25th Percentile) | Experienced (90th Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico (Statewide) | $68,830 | $59,480 | $87,730 |
| Albuquerque Metro Area | $69,710 | Data not available | Data not available |
| Las Cruces Metro Area | $67,200 | Data not available | Data not available |
For a broader context on the salaries of dietitians and nutritionists across the United States, compensation varies significantly by geographic region, practice setting, and specialty area. Registered dietitians working in hospitals, specialized outpatient care centers, and those holding board-certified specialist credentials typically earn at the higher end of the salary range.
Employment Settings in New Mexico
New Mexico registered dietitians find employment in diverse settings:
- Hospitals and medical centers – University of New Mexico Hospital, Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Lovelace Health System
- Outpatient clinics and dialysis centers – Increasing demand for chronic disease management
- Long-term care facilities – Growing need with aging population
- Public health and WIC programs – Community nutrition and maternal/child health
- School districts – Child nutrition programs and wellness initiatives
- Private practice and telehealth – Growing opportunities for entrepreneurial dietitians
If you’re interested in a less restrictive nutrition career path, view how to become a nutritionist in New Mexico to learn about alternative licensure options that may require different educational qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Registered Dietitian in New Mexico
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in New Mexico?
The complete process typically takes 6-7 years under current requirements. This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree in dietetics or nutrition, plus 1-2 additional years for the required master’s degree (which may be combined with your dietetic internship). The dietetic internship itself ranges from 9 to 24 months, depending on the program format. After completing your internship, most candidates take the CDR exam within one to three months. State licensure application processing typically takes 4-6 weeks once all required documentation has been submitted.
Is a license required to practice as a dietitian in New Mexico?
Yes, New Mexico law requires all practicing dietitians to hold a valid state license issued by the Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board. You cannot legally use the title “dietitian” or provide medical nutrition therapy without proper licensure. This protects public health and ensures practitioners meet established education and competency standards.
What’s the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, both dietitians and nutritionists are licensed, but through different pathways. Registered dietitians must complete ACEND-accredited education, a supervised internship, and the CDR exam. Nutritionists must hold a graduate degree in a nutrition-related field, be a member of specific professional organizations, and pass a nutrition practice examination. Registered dietitians can provide medical nutrition therapy in clinical settings, while nutritionists’ scope may be more limited depending on their specific credentials.
Can I complete my dietitian education online in New Mexico?
While some universities offer hybrid programs with online coursework components, the dietetic internship requires in-person supervised practice. You must complete 1,200 hours of hands-on experience in various settings, including hospitals, community nutrition programs, and foodservice operations. However, you can complete your didactic coursework at online ACEND-accredited programs before applying for an internship in or near New Mexico.
What is the total cost of the entire process in New Mexico?
Total costs vary significantly but typically include tuition for your degree programs ($40,000-$100,000+), depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, and whether the institution is public or private. Additionally, costs may include dietetic internship fees ($5,000-$20,000), the CDR exam fee ($200), and initial New Mexico licensure ($200). Many dietetic internships are unpaid, so you’ll also need to budget for living expenses during that time. However, some graduate programs offer stipends or assistantships that can offset costs.
Do I need to renew my license every year in New Mexico?
Yes, New Mexico requires annual license renewal. You must complete 15 continuing education hours each year, pay a $75 renewal fee, and maintain current CDR registration. The renewal process can be completed online through the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department portal. Set a reminder for your renewal deadline, as practicing with an expired license can result in penalties and fines.
Can I transfer my dietitian license from another state to New Mexico?
New Mexico participates in license reciprocity with other states. If you hold an active registered dietitian credential with CDR and a valid license in another state, you can typically apply for licensure by endorsement in New Mexico. You’ll still need to submit an application, pay the licensing fees, provide proof of your credentials, and meet New Mexico’s specific requirements. The process is generally faster than initial licensure since you’ve already met the core educational and examination requirements.
Key Takeaways: Your Path to Becoming a Registered Dietitian in New Mexico
- Master’s degree now required: As of January 1, 2024, you must complete at least a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program to be eligible for the CDR exam and state licensure.
- Comprehensive education and practice: The path includes earning your graduate degree, completing 1,200+ hours in a dietetic internship, passing the national CDR exam, and obtaining New Mexico state licensure
- Active licensing required: New Mexico law mandates licensure for all practicing dietitians through the Nutrition and Dietetics Practice Board
- Annual renewal obligations: Maintain your license with 15 continuing education hours and $75 renewal fee each year, plus CDR recertification every five years with 75 CPEUs
- Competitive compensation: New Mexico dietitians earn an average of $68,830 annually, with experienced professionals earning upward of $87,730 in the state’s growing healthcare market
- Multiple career paths: Consider pursuing board-certified specialist credentials in areas like oncology, pediatrics, sports dietetics, or renal nutrition to enhance your expertise and earning potential
Ready to Launch Your Registered Dietitian Career in New Mexico?
Start your journey today by exploring ACEND-accredited nutrition and dietetics programs. With strong career growth, competitive salaries, and diverse practice opportunities across New Mexico’s healthcare landscape, now is an excellent time to pursue your registered dietitian credential.
Explore The Very Best 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
The University of Texas at Austin offers an Online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences.
Grand Canyon University offers an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.
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.
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.
