Steps to Become a Registered Dietitian in South Dakota

South Dakota requires licensure for both registered dietitians and nutritionists to practice legally. Under South Dakota Codified Law § 36-10B, no person may offer nutrition or dietetics services or use titles such as “nutritionist,” “dietitian,” “licensed nutritionist,” or the abbreviations LN or LD unless licensed by the state (unless exempted under § 36-10B-15). If you’re considering a career in nutrition, it’s essential to understand the differences between RDs and nutritionists.

The path to becoming a registered dietitian combines rigorous academic training, supervised clinical practice, and national credentialing. The South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE) oversees the licensing of both dietitians and nutritionists. The practice of nutrition and dietetics involves the integration and application of scientific principles from biochemistry, physiology, management, behavioral science, social science, food, and nutrition to maintain population health. View how to become a health coach in South Dakota here.

Follow the step-by-step process or choose the situation that best describes you:

1. Complete Registered Dietitian Education in South Dakota
2. Apply for Your Dietetic Internship in South Dakota
3. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
4. Apply for Licensure as a Registered Dietitian in South Dakota
5. Maintain Your Registration and License in South Dakota

Complete Registered Dietitian Education in South Dakota

Your journey to becoming a registered dietitian begins with completing the proper educational foundation. The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) sets the standards for dietetics education programs nationwide. To sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) examination, you must complete an ACEND-accredited program.

Meaningful Change for CDR Exam Eligibility: As of January 1, 2024, ACEND requires a graduate degree (master’s or doctoral) for eligibility to take the CDR examination. This is a national credentialing requirement and does not necessarily change South Dakota’s statutory licensure requirements. You’ll need to complete both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from ACEND-accredited programs, or enter directly into a combined degree 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.

ACEND-Accredited Program in South Dakota

South Dakota has one ACEND-accredited education program for aspiring registered dietitians:

South Dakota State University, Brookings
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics

This program provides comprehensive coursework in nutrition science, food systems, biochemistry, and clinical nutrition. Students gain the theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in supervised practice and prepare for the national credentialing exam. Discover more about the education requirements for registered dietitians and how to select the ideal program for your career goals.

Alternative Degree Pathways

If you can’t attend the South Dakota State University program or prefer online education, several accredited institutions offer distance learning options:

Educational Requirements for South Dakota

According to the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners, to become licensed as a dietitian in South Dakota, you must complete a bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited college or university in one of the following areas:

• Dietetics
• Food service management
• Food and nutrition
• Nutrition education
• Human nutrition

Apply for Your Dietetic Internship in South Dakota

After completing your educational requirements, you must apply to and complete a dietetic internship (DI) accredited by ACEND. Dietetic internships typically require approximately 1,200 hours of supervised practice, although state law and program policies may establish minimums as low as 900 hours. This supervised practice is where you’ll apply your academic knowledge in real-world clinical, community, and foodservice settings.

Dietetic Internship Program in South Dakota

South Dakota has one ACEND-accredited dietetic internship program with two options:

South Dakota State University, Brookings

The 22-month degree program is particularly valuable because it allows you to meet the new graduate degree requirement while completing your supervised practice. Both options emphasize community nutrition, preparing you for diverse career opportunities in public health, wellness programs, and community education.

Dietetic Internship Application Process

Competition for dietetic internships can be intense, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 40% to 60% nationally. To strengthen your application:

• Maintain a strong GPA throughout your undergraduate coursework, particularly in science courses
• Gain relevant experience through volunteer work, part-time positions, or research in healthcare or foodservice settings
• Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors, preceptors, or supervisors who know your work well
• Prepare a compelling personal statement that demonstrates your passion for dietetics and commitment to the profession
• Apply to multiple programs through the centralized DICAS (Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System)

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

Once you complete your dietetic internship, you’re eligible to take the CDR examination. This national credentialing exam assesses your knowledge and competency to practice as an entry-level registered dietitian. Learn more about the registered dietitian certification process and exam preparation strategies.

Exam Registration Process

Your dietetic internship program administrator will provide you with the information needed to register for the CDR examination. They may contact CDR on your behalf. You’ll receive instructions to register for the exam and pay the application fee of $200. You have one year from the date of your DI program completion to register and take the CDR exam.

After registering, you’ll receive an email from Pearson VUE Exams, the company that oversees the testing centers nationwide. Candidates may take the CDR exam at Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide; one commonly used location in South Dakota is Sioux Falls, though you may use any Pearson VUE testing center that’s convenient for you.

Exam Day Requirements

On the date of your examination, you must bring:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Confirmation email from Pearson VUE

Pearson VUE provides you with a computer and a simple calculator to take the exam. You may not use your own calculator or bring personal items into the testing room.

Exam Format and Content

The CDR exam format, number of questions, time allowed, and passing score are set by CDR and may change over time. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions divided among four domains. Refer to the current CDR candidate handbook for detailed information on exam format and scoring.

Note: Exam specifications are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with CDR before scheduling your examination.

If You Don’t Pass

If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you may retake it. You must reauthorize to test again by emailing [email protected] or calling (312) 899-4859. You must wait at least 45 days before retaking the examination. There’s no limit to the number of times you can take the exam, provided you reschedule and pay the examination fee each time.

Apply for Licensure as a Registered Dietitian in South Dakota

After passing the CDR exam and earning your RD credential, you must obtain licensure from South Dakota to practice legally in the state. Both dietitians and nutritionists require licensure in South Dakota, and the Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners oversees this process.

South Dakota Licensure Requirements

To apply for licensure as a registered dietitian in South Dakota, you must:

• Hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited institution in a nutrition-related field
• Have completed an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship
• Have passed the CDR examination
• Submit a completed application through the South Dakota online system
• Pay the application fee (verify current fee amount with SDBMOE)

Application Process

Complete your application for dietitian/nutritionist licensure using the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners online system. You must first register with the system by creating a username and password. The site includes a secure credit card payment system for the application fee. You can also use this system to check the status of your application and view any additional instructions that may be required.

Once you complete the application and pay the fee, you’ll receive instructions regarding any additional verification required by the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners. This may include documentation of your education, supervised practice, and CDR credential.

Timeline for Licensure

The licensure process typically takes 4-6 weeks after a complete application is submitted. Processing times may be longer during peak application periods. You can check your application status through the online system at any time.

Maintain Your Registration and License in South Dakota

Maintaining your credentials requires ongoing commitment to both your state license and national registration. South Dakota has specific renewal requirements that you must meet to continue practicing legally.

State License Renewal

You must renew your South Dakota RD license every two years, with renewals due by May 31 of odd-numbered years. The biennial renewal fee is $100. South Dakota does not currently require separate continuing education beyond maintenance of CDR registration to renew the state license. However, you must maintain your current registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration to qualify for renewal. Always verify current renewal requirements with SDBMOE, as the rules are subject to change.

CDR Registration Renewal

To maintain your RD credential with CDR, you must recertify every five years and provide documentation of at least 75 hours of continuing professional education (CPE). These CPE hours must be earned through approved providers and activities. The CDR offers various ways to earn CPE credits, including:

• Professional development through conferences, workshops, and webinars
• Self-study programs and online courses
• Academic coursework at accredited institutions
• Professional publications and presentations
• Precepting dietetic interns or students

Staying current with continuing education ensures that your knowledge remains up-to-date, enabling you to provide the most current, evidence-based nutrition care to your clients and patients.

Nutrition Careers in South Dakota

Registered dietitians in South Dakota work in diverse settings and enjoy rewarding careers helping individuals and communities achieve better health through nutrition. Salary data varies depending on the source and timing. As of May 2025, Salary.com lists the average RD salary in South Dakota as $65,480, with a typical range of $59,344 to $72,491. Early-career professionals typically earn around $57,740 to $59,344, while experienced professionals can earn $72,491 or more.

Salary varies by location and practice setting. Sioux Falls, the state’s largest city, reported an average salary of $62,840 in recent data. In contrast, the rural eastern part of the state reported an average salary of $64,900 for dietitians and nutritionists.

Practice Settings for RDs in South Dakota

Dietetic and nutrition professionals in South Dakota work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals and healthcare systems providing clinical nutrition therapy to patients
• Long-term care facilities and nursing homes manage nutrition care for elderly residents
• Community health agencies and senior centers promote wellness and disease prevention
• School districts managing food service programs and nutrition education
• WIC programs supporting maternal and child nutrition
• Private practice offering nutrition counseling and consulting services
• Colleges and universities teach future nutrition professionals
• Government agencies conducting nutrition research and developing public health policies
• Food and pharmaceutical companies in product development and consumer education roles
• Health clubs and wellness centers provide fitness and nutrition guidance

Professional Development Opportunities

The South Dakota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics provides networking opportunities, continuing education, and professional support for RDs practicing in the state. Membership in professional organizations helps you stay connected with colleagues, learn about job opportunities, and advocate for the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in South Dakota?

The typical timeline is 4 to 5 years. This includes a four-year bachelor’s degree (or completion of required coursework), followed by a dietetic internship that can range from 6 to 24 months, depending on whether you choose a full-time or part-time program. With the new graduate degree requirement, students entering combined bachelor’s/master’s programs may take 5 to 6 years to complete all requirements.

What’s the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, both registered dietitians and nutritionists are required to be licensed to practice their profession. Under South Dakota law § 36-10B, only authorized individuals may use the titles “nutritionist,” “dietitian,” or “licensed nutritionist” or the abbreviations LN or LD, unless exempted under § 36-10B-15. Registered dietitians complete ACEND-accredited programs and pass the CDR exam. Licensed nutritionists must have a master’s or doctoral degree in a nutrition-related field, complete 1,000 hours of supervised practice with specific requirements, and pass the CBNS Certifying Examination to receive the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) designation. Both credentials allow you to practice nutrition therapy in South Dakota, but RDs and CNSs have different educational pathways and scopes of practice.

Do I need to complete a dietetic internship in South Dakota?

No, you don’t need to complete your internship in South Dakota. You can complete an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship in any state and then apply for South Dakota licensure. However, completing an internship in South Dakota can help you build professional connections and become familiar with healthcare systems in the state where you plan to practice.

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

The total cost varies significantly based on your educational path. Expect to pay for tuition (which ranges from $40,000-$100,000+ depending on the institution and degree level), CDR exam fee ($200), and South Dakota licensure application fee ($70). Some dietetic internships are paid positions, while others may require tuition—factor in living expenses during your education and internship as well.

Can I practice as an RD in other states with South Dakota licensure?

South Dakota licensure only allows you to practice within the state of South Dakota. If you plan to work in another state, you’ll need to apply for licensure there. Many states have reciprocity agreements that simplify the process for individuals who’re already licensed and credentialed in another state. Your CDR credential is recognized nationally, which facilitates the process of obtaining licensure in multiple states.

What specialty certifications can RDs earn?

After gaining experience as an RD, you can pursue specialty certifications in areas like pediatric nutrition, renal nutrition, sports dietetics, gerontological nutrition, oncology nutrition, and diabetes education. These advanced credentials demonstrate expertise in specific practice areas and can enhance career opportunities and earning potential.

Are there job opportunities for RDs in rural South Dakota?

Yes, rural areas in South Dakota often have a strong demand for registered dietitians, particularly in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings. The salary data shows that rural eastern South Dakota actually offers slightly higher average salaries ($64,900) compared to Sioux Falls ($62,840), potentially reflecting the demand for professionals in underserved areas.

Key Takeaways

• South Dakota requires licensure under § 36-10B for both registered dietitians and nutritionists to practice legally and use protected titles.
• The RD pathway requires an ACEND-accredited graduate degree (for CDR exam eligibility as of January 2024), completion of a dietetic internship (typically 1,200 hours), passing the CDR exam, and obtaining state licensure.
• One ACEND program is located in South Dakota at South Dakota State University in Brookings, offering a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics.
• The dietetic internship at SDSU offers both degree and non-degree options, with the 22-month master’s program meeting the graduate degree requirement for eligibility to take the CDR exam.
• CDR sets the CDR exam format and requirements, which are subject to change. Always consult the current CDR candidate handbook for specific details.
• South Dakota licensure requirements should be verified with SDBMOE, as fees and application procedures may be updated.
• RDs in South Dakota earn approximately $64,210 (May 2024, NutritionED) to $65,480 (May 2025, Salary.com), with ranges varying by experience and location.
• The total timeline to become a practicing RD in South Dakota is typically 5-6 years from starting your bachelor’s degree through obtaining licensure.
• No separate continuing education is currently required for South Dakota state license renewal beyond maintaining your CDR credential, which requires 75 CPE hours every five years.
• Career opportunities exist in diverse settings throughout South Dakota, from hospitals and schools to private practice and public health agencies.

Important: Licensure rules, exam eligibility, program requirements, and fees are subject to change. Always consult the South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners (SDBMOE), ACEND, and CDR for current regulations before making educational and career decisions.

Ready to Start Your RD Career in South Dakota?

Becoming a registered dietitian offers a rewarding career path that allows you to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives through evidence-based nutrition care. Whether you’re passionate about clinical nutrition, community health, sports performance, or wellness, the RD credential opens doors to diverse career opportunities in South Dakota and beyond.

Explore accredited RD programs to find the educational pathway that fits your goals and start your journey toward this fulfilling healthcare profession.

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 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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