How to Become a Registered Dietitian in Vermont

Vermont offers a unique pathway for aspiring registered dietitians, combining rigorous education requirements with a distinctive regulatory approach. Unlike many states, Vermont uses an “advisor” model where licensed dietitians appointed by the Secretary of State provide guidance to the Office of Professional Regulation on matters affecting the profession.

The journey to becoming a registered dietitian in Vermont requires dedication, advanced education, and supervised clinical experience. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step of the process, from selecting an accredited program to maintaining your credentials in the Green Mountain State.

Vermont Registered Dietitian Career Overview

Vermont’s dietetics profession continues to grow as healthcare systems recognize the critical role nutrition plays in preventing and managing chronic diseases. As of June 2025, the Commission on Dietetic Registration reported 283 Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) practicing in Vermont.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, registered dietitians in Vermont earned competitive salaries. The data shows Vermont RDs earn slightly above the national average, reflecting the state’s commitment to healthcare quality and cost-of-living considerations.

These salary figures compare favorably with the national median of $74,770 for dietitians and nutritionists. For more detailed information, explore nutrition and dietetics salary trends across different specializations and geographic regions. Career advancement opportunities exist in clinical settings, public health agencies, private practice, and Vermont’s growing farm-to-table and sustainable food systems initiatives.

Vermont’s regulatory approach creates a supportive environment for dietetics professionals. The state’s certification process ensures practitioners meet national standards while maintaining flexibility to address Vermont’s unique rural healthcare needs and agricultural heritage.

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

1. Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Vermont
2. Apply for Your Dietetic Internship (DI)
3. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination
4. Apply for State Certification in Vermont
5. Maintain Your Registration and Certification

Complete Registered Dietitian Education in Vermont

Vermont requires aspiring registered dietitians to earn a graduate degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). This requirement reflects a national shift effective January 1, 2024, when the master’s degree became the minimum educational standard for RD eligibility.

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 programs combine rigorous coursework in nutrition science with practical applications. You’ll study biochemistry, medical nutrition therapy, food service systems management, community nutrition, and counseling techniques. Programs prepare you to translate complex nutritional science into practical solutions for diverse populations. Learn more about ACEND-accredited dietetics programs and national education requirements.

Understanding Program Types

Vermont offers two pathways through ACEND-accredited programs, each designed to meet different student needs and career timelines.

Coordinated Programs (CP) integrate academic coursework with supervised practice experience. These comprehensive programs allow you to complete both your degree and the required 1,000 hours of supervised practice in one seamless program. Upon graduation from a CP, you’re immediately eligible to sit for the CDR exam.

Didactic Programs in Dietetics (DPD) focus exclusively on academic coursework and culminate in either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. After completing a DPD, you must separately apply for and complete a dietetic internship to fulfill the supervised practice requirement before taking the CDR exam.

Vermont ACEND-Accredited Programs

The University of Vermont in Burlington serves as Vermont’s primary institution for dietetics education, offering both coordinated and didactic pathways.

The University of Vermont’s programs emphasize sustainable food systems and community-based nutrition, reflecting Vermont’s agricultural heritage and commitment to local food movements. Students gain hands-on experience working with Vermont’s diverse population, from urban centers like Burlington to rural mountain communities.

Additional Educational Options

Students seeking additional pathways to dietetics education can explore accredited online programs that complement Vermont residency. These programs offer flexibility for working professionals or those with geographic constraints.

Core Coursework

Regardless of program type, your education includes foundational and advanced courses:

• Nutritional biochemistry explores how nutrients function at the cellular and molecular levels
• Medical nutrition therapy teaches disease-specific dietary interventions
• Food service systems management covers institutional nutrition operations
• Community nutrition focuses on population-level interventions and public health
• Counseling and behavior change develop client communication skills
• Research methods build evidence-based practice capabilities
• Life cycle nutrition addresses needs from pregnancy through aging

Vermont programs often incorporate additional coursework in sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and rural health to prepare graduates for the state’s unique nutrition landscape.

Apply for Your Dietetic Internship (DI)

If you complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics, you must secure a dietetic internship to fulfill the supervised practice requirement. As of January 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice, an increase from the previous 900-hour requirement.

The dietetic internship combines hands-on clinical experience with rotations in community and food service settings. You’ll work under the supervision of experienced registered dietitians in various settings, applying classroom knowledge to real-world nutrition challenges.

The Matching Process

Most dietetic internships utilize a centralized computer matching system similar to those used in medical residency programs. You submit applications to multiple programs, rank your preferences, and programs rank applicants. The matching algorithm pairs students with programs based on mutual preferences.

Competition for dietetic internships remains intense, with acceptance rates varying by program. Strong academic performance, relevant volunteer experience, and compelling personal statements strengthen your application. Many students apply to 10-15 programs to increase their chances of matching.

Dietetic Internship Options Near Vermont

While Vermont doesn’t currently host ACEND-accredited dietetic internships, several quality programs operate in neighboring New Hampshire, within reasonable commuting distance for Vermont residents.

Both programs offer comprehensive, supervised practice across the required competency areas, including clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management. Their proximity to Vermont makes them practical options for residents seeking to complete their supervised practice hours while maintaining connections to the state.

What to Expect During Your Internship

Your 1,000 supervised practice hours typically break down across three main rotation areas. Clinical rotations place you in hospitals and medical centers where you’ll conduct nutrition assessments, develop medical nutrition therapy plans, and participate in interdisciplinary care teams. Community rotations involve public health agencies, WIC programs, and wellness initiatives where you’ll design and implement nutrition education programs. Food service management rotations provide exposure to institutional operations in settings such as hospitals, schools, or corporate dining facilities.

Throughout your internship, you’ll develop competencies in nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation. Preceptors provide regular feedback and document your progress toward meeting national competency standards.

Timeline and Financial Considerations

Full-time dietetic internships typically require 9-12 months to complete, though part-time options extend up to 24 months. Most internships are unpaid, though some offer stipends or reduced-cost graduate credits. Plan for living expenses during this intensive training period and research scholarships specifically designated for dietetic interns.

Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration Examination

After completing your ACEND-accredited education and supervised practice, you’re eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians. This computer-based exam tests your knowledge across the full scope of dietetics practice and serves as the national credentialing requirement for becoming a registered dietitian. Review the complete CDR registration examination requirements before scheduling your exam.

Registration and Eligibility

Your program director will provide you with a verification statement confirming you’ve met all educational and supervised practice requirements. You must register for the exam within one year of receiving this verification statement.

The examination fee is $200, payable upon registration through the CDR website. After submitting payment and registration, Pearson VUE, the exam administration company, sends you an authorization to schedule your exam at an approved testing center.

Testing Centers in Vermont

Vermont residents can take the CDR exam at the Pearson VUE testing center located at:

30 Kimball Avenue, Suite 202, South Burlington, VT 05403

The testing center offers year-round exam availability, allowing you to schedule a date and time that fits your preparation timeline. Book your exam slot early, especially during peak testing periods following graduation from dietetic internship seasons.

Exam Format and Content

The CDR exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice test containing approximately 125 scored questions plus additional pretest questions. You’ll have 30 minutes to review the tutorial and 2.5 hours to complete the exam.

Questions cover four major domains:

• Principles of Dietetics tests foundational knowledge of nutrition science, metabolism, and research
• Nutrition Care for Individuals and Groups assesses your ability to provide medical nutrition therapy across the lifespan
• Management of Food and Nutrition Programs and Services evaluates knowledge of food service operations, quality management, and program planning
• Foodservice Systems covers menu planning, food safety, procurement, and facility management

The exam uses a scaled scoring system ranging from 0 to 50. You need a minimum score of 25 to pass. The computer-adaptive format adjusts question difficulty based on your responses, ensuring accurate measurement of your competency level.

Preparing for the Exam

The CDR provides official study resources, including a comprehensive Study Outline that details all tested content areas. Many candidates use this outline to organize their review, focusing on areas where they feel less confident.

Practice questions help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify areas where you need improvement. The CDR offers a practice exam that simulates the actual testing experience. Study groups with fellow dietetic interns provide mutual support and shared learning opportunities.

Most successful candidates dedicate 6-8 weeks to focused exam preparation while their coursework and internship experiences remain fresh and relevant. Create a study schedule that systematically covers all content domains, rather than cramming in the final week.

Taking the Exam

Arrive at the testing center early with your government-issued photo ID and your Pearson VUE confirmation email. The testing center provides a basic calculator, scratch paper, and a secure locker for personal belongings. You are not allowed to bring phones, bags, or study materials into the testing room.

Once you answer a question, you can’t return to change your response. The computer doesn’t allow you to skip questions and return later. Read each question carefully and select your best answer before moving forward.

You’ll receive your preliminary pass/fail results immediately after completing the exam. Official score reports are sent via email within one week.

If You Don’t Pass

Candidates who don’t achieve a passing score can retake the exam after a 45-day waiting period. You must pay the $200 exam fee again and request reauthorization from the CDR by emailing [email protected] or calling (312) 899-4859.

Use the score report to identify areas of weak content and adjust your study approach accordingly. Many candidates who retake the exam pass on their second attempt after targeted review of specific domains.

Apply for State Certification in Vermont

After passing the CDR exam, you must obtain state certification from Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation to legally practice as a registered dietitian in the state. Vermont uses a certification model rather than licensure, but the credential is equally important for professional practice.

Vermont’s Unique Regulatory Model

Vermont employs an “advisor” model for dietetics regulation. The Secretary of State appoints two licensed dietitians who serve as advisors to the Director of the Office of Professional Regulation on matters relating to the dietetics profession. These advisors review applications, provide guidance on scope of practice questions, and help maintain professional standards.

Though Vermont uses the term “certification” rather than “licensure,” it functions similarly to licensure in other states. Vermont certification grants you the legal authority to practice as a registered dietitian and use protected professional titles. The distinction is primarily administrative rather than functional.

This collaborative approach ensures that regulatory decisions reflect current practice realities while maintaining public protection standards.

Application Requirements

The Vermont dietitian certification application requires several key documents and steps:

• Complete the online application through Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation portal
• Submit official transcripts from your ACEND-accredited degree program sent directly from your institution in a sealed envelope
• Provide your CDR credential verification, including your registration number and current status
• Pay the $100 non-refundable processing fee at the time of application submission
• Pass a background check if required by current Vermont regulations

The Office of Professional Regulation reviews applications on a rolling basis. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks from the date they receive your complete application with all supporting documentation.

Maintaining Good Standing

Vermont certification allows you to use the protected title “Certified Dietitian” and practice dietetics throughout the state. You must maintain both your Vermont certification and your CDR registration simultaneously. Let either credential lapse, and you can’t legally practice as a registered dietitian in Vermont.

Keep your contact information up to date with the Office of Professional Regulation. They send renewal notices and important updates via email and mail. Missing a renewal deadline can result in practice interruptions and additional reinstatement fees.

Maintain Your Registration and Certification

Registered dietitians must meet continuing education requirements to maintain both their national CDR registration and their Vermont state certification. These parallel but separate requirements ensure you stay current with evolving nutrition science and practice standards.

Vermont State Certification Renewal

Vermont requires certified dietitians to complete a minimum of 30 continuing education credits every two years to renew their state certification. You’re exempt from this requirement only when renewing your certification for the first time after initial certification.

All continuing education courses must carry CDR approval to count toward your Vermont renewal requirement. This ensures consistent quality standards and relevance to the practice of dietetics.

The biennial renewal cycle operates on a fixed schedule tied to your initial certification date. Vermont sends renewal notices approximately 60 days before your expiration date. You complete the renewal process online through the Office of Professional Regulation portal, paying the renewal fee and attesting to your compliance with continuing education requirements.

CDR Professional Development Portfolio

The Commission on Dietetic Registration requires all registered dietitians to maintain a Professional Development Portfolio documenting 75 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs) every five years. This national requirement operates independently from Vermont’s state certification requirements, though the same courses often satisfy both.

You must complete a learning plan within your CDR profile before beginning any continuing education activities. This plan helps you identify professional development goals and select relevant learning opportunities aligned with your practice area and career objectives.

Acceptable Continuing Education Activities

Multiple pathways exist for earning continuing education credits. The variety allows you to choose activities matching your learning style, schedule, and professional interests.

Finding Quality Continuing Education

The CDR website maintains a searchable database of approved continuing education providers and courses. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers extensive online learning opportunities, webinars, and annual conferences that provide substantial continuing education credit.

Vermont dietitians can also pursue continuing education through state and regional dietetics associations, which often offer programming focused on topics relevant to New England practice settings. Local hospitals, healthcare systems, and universities frequently host CDR-approved workshops and seminars.

Documentation and Compliance

Maintain detailed records of all continuing education activities, including certificates of completion, course descriptions, dates, and CPEU values. While Vermont operates on an honor system for initial renewal, the Office of Professional Regulation conducts random audits and can request documentation at any time.

The CDR requires you to upload documentation of your activities into your online Professional Development Portfolio. Keep backup copies of all certificates and completion records for at least six years beyond your current recertification period.

Costs and Planning

Budget for both renewal fees and continuing education expenses. Vermont’s biennial certification renewal fee plus the CDR’s annual registration fee totals several hundred dollars. Quality continuing education programs range from free webinars to multi-day conferences costing thousands of dollars.

Many employers provide continuing education allowances or paid time off for professional development. Investigate your workplace benefits and plan your continuing education strategically to maximize available support.

Career Specializations for Vermont Registered Dietitians

Vermont’s unique blend of urban healthcare facilities, rural communities, and agricultural innovation creates diverse career opportunities for registered dietitians. While all RDs share core competencies, many choose to develop specialized expertise aligned with their interests and Vermont’s distinctive needs.

Clinical Nutrition

Hospital-based registered dietitians provide medical nutrition therapy for patients with complex health conditions. Vermont’s major medical centers, including the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, offer opportunities to work with diverse patient populations. Clinical dietitians conduct nutrition assessments, develop individualized meal plans, and collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.

Specialization areas within clinical nutrition include critical care, oncology, pediatrics, renal nutrition, and diabetes management. The CDR offers board certification in specialized areas of practice for experienced practitioners seeking advanced credentials.

Community and Public Health Nutrition

Vermont’s strong commitment to public health creates opportunities in community nutrition programs. Registered dietitians work with state and local health departments, WIC programs, senior centers, and community health organizations to improve population-level nutrition outcomes.

Community nutrition roles involve program planning, nutrition education, policy development, and health promotion initiatives. Vermont’s focus on food security, farm-to-table initiatives, and local food systems provides unique opportunities to address nutrition access and sustainability simultaneously.

Sustainable Food Systems and Farm-to-Table

Vermont’s agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainable food production position the state as a leader in farm-to-table nutrition initiatives. Registered dietitians work with farms, food hubs, schools, and restaurants to connect local food production with nutrition education and access.

This emerging specialty combines traditional nutrition science with agricultural knowledge, food policy, and environmental sustainability. Vermont dietitians in this area may work on farm-to-school programs, develop community gardens, consult with local food businesses, or create educational materials that connect agriculture and nutrition.

Rural Health Nutrition

Vermont’s rural character presents both challenges and opportunities for registered dietitians. Rural areas often face limited access to specialized healthcare services, making dietitians essential members of primary care teams serving small towns and mountain communities.

Rural health nutrition emphasizes telehealth capabilities, community partnership development, and creative service delivery models. Dietitians must be generalists comfortable addressing diverse nutrition needs from prenatal nutrition to chronic disease management to elder care.

Private Practice and Consulting

Many registered dietitians in Vermont establish private practices, offering nutrition counseling, wellness coaching, and specialized services. Private practitioners may focus on areas such as sports nutrition, eating disorders, digestive health, or weight management.

Building a successful private practice requires business acumen beyond clinical skills. You’ll need to understand insurance reimbursement, marketing, client retention, and practice management. Vermont’s strong wellness culture and health-conscious population support a growing market for private nutrition services.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The complete process typically takes 5 to 6 years. You’ll spend 4 years earning your bachelor’s degree, an additional 1-2 years completing a master’s degree and supervised practice hours, and several months preparing for and taking the CDR exam. The timeline varies depending on whether you choose a coordinated program (which integrates supervised practice with your master’s degree) or complete a didactic program followed by a separate dietetic internship.

Do I need a master’s degree to become a registered dietitian in Vermont?

Yes, as of January 1, 2024, all individuals seeking to become registered dietitians must hold at least a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program. This represents a change from previous requirements and applies nationwide through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. If you completed your education before this date under the bachelor’s degree requirement, you may still be eligible if you met all requirements by the deadline.

How much does the CDR exam cost?

The Registration Examination for Dietitians costs $200 per attempt. This fee covers the exam administration but doesn’t include additional costs for study materials or test preparation resources. If you need to retake the exam, you’ll pay the $200 fee again after waiting the required 45-day period between attempts.

Can I practice as a registered dietitian in Vermont without state certification?

No, Vermont requires state certification through the Office of Professional Regulation to practice as a registered dietitian or use the protected title “Certified Dietitian.” Even if you hold the national RD credential from the CDR, you must obtain Vermont certification to practice legally in the state. Working without proper certification is a violation of state law and can result in penalties.

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

Registered dietitians have completed extensive education, including a master’s degree, 1,000 hours of supervised practice, and passed a national credentialing exam. They can provide medical nutrition therapy and work in clinical settings. Nutritionists in Vermont may have varying levels of education and aren’t required to meet the same rigorous standards. The term “nutritionist” isn’t protected in Vermont, so anyone can technically use it regardless of credentials. Always verify credentials when seeking nutrition services.

How much do registered dietitians make in Vermont?

According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, registered dietitians and nutritionists in Vermont earned a median annual salary of $76,520, slightly above the national median. Entry-level dietitians (25th percentile) earned approximately $66,270, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earned around $98,240. Salaries vary based on practice setting, specialization, experience level, and geographic location within the state.

Are there dietetic internship programs in Vermont?

Vermont currently doesn’t host any ACEND-accredited dietetic internship programs. However, two quality programs operate in nearby New Hampshire within commuting distance for Vermont residents. The University of New Hampshire in Durham offers a 21-month graduate degree program, and Keene State College provides 11-month full-time or 18-month part-time options. Both programs prepare students for the CDR exam and Vermont certification.

How often do I need to renew my Vermont RD certification?

Vermont requires biennial (every two years) renewal of your dietitian certification. You must complete 30 continuing education credits during each two-year cycle, except for your first renewal after initial certification. Additionally, you must maintain your CDR registration separately, which requires 75 CPEUs every five years through the Professional Development Portfolio. Keep both credentials up to date to practice legally in Vermont.

Can I transfer my RD license from another state to Vermont?

Vermont requires all registered dietitians to obtain state certification regardless of where they previously practiced. However, if you hold a current CDR registration and have met all national requirements in another state, you can apply for Vermont certification by endorsement. Submit your application with verification of your CDR credential, official transcripts, and the certification fee. The process is typically more straightforward than initial certification for new graduates.

Key Takeaways

• Vermont requires a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited program, 1,000 hours of supervised practice, CDR exam passage, and state certification to become a registered dietitian
• The complete process takes 5-6 years from starting your bachelor’s degree to obtaining full credentials
• Vermont uses a unique “advisor” regulatory model with two licensed dietitians guiding the Office of Professional Regulation
• The University of Vermont offers both coordinated programs and didactic programs in dietetics, with nearby New Hampshire institutions providing dietetic internship options
• Vermont registered dietitians earn a median salary of $76,520, slightly above the national average
• Maintaining credentials requires 30 continuing education credits every two years for Vermont certification and 75 CPEUs every five years for CDR registration
• Vermont’s agricultural heritage and rural character create unique opportunities in sustainable food systems, farm-to-table initiatives, and rural health and nutrition
• Career paths include clinical nutrition, community health, private practice, and emerging specializations in local food systems

Interested in exploring a different career path in nutrition? View how to become a nutritionist in Vermont for information about non-RD nutrition careers in the state.

Ready to Start Your Nutrition Career in Vermont?

Vermont’s combination of rigorous professional standards and innovative nutrition opportunities makes it an excellent state to launch your registered dietitian career. From clinical practice in major medical centers to pioneering work in sustainable food systems, Vermont offers diverse pathways for nutrition professionals passionate about making a difference. Take the first step by researching ACEND-accredited programs and connecting with Vermont’s dietetics community to begin your journey toward 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.

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

See Full Bio

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.