anne mauney
May 21, 2020 (Updated June 16, 2021)

How to Become a Dietitian (+ How I Did It!)

by Anne Mauney, MPH, RD

320 comments

One of my most frequently asked questions on this blog is how to become a dietitian.

You might be confused (like I was) about how it all works, especially if you are starting from scratch with the prerequisites, and don’t already have a nutrition undergraduate degree.

Many of you seem to be in the same boat that I was in 2009. After getting an unrelated undergraduate degree and years of office work in an unrelated field, I decided to make a career out of nutrition.

I’m honored to know that I’ve inspired some of you to follow your own dreams, and happy to be able to help you out along the way!

Here is my step by step guide to becoming a Registered Dietitian. I hope it’s helpful!

how to become a dietitian

**Just a note: I do not work for the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, and I won’t be able to answer any questions you have specific to your own back to school to become an RD journey. Please don’t email me with those sort of technical questions!

How to Become a Registered Dietitian (RD)

The process sounds scary and complicated, but it’s really not when you understand it. And it will definitely be worth it – it was for me!

Here’s everything you need to know about going back to school to become an RD, right on one easy page.

I wish I’d had this on hand when I started my own journey! 🙂

To become a dietitian, you need to do 3 things:

  1. Take the specific set of courses outlined by the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (AND). This can be completed at the undergraduate OR graduate level as of now, but starting in 2024 a graduate degree will be required to sit for the RD exam. 
  2. Complete the required internships, also outlined by AND. This can be done separately or at the same time as the coursework, depending on your program. (See the researching programs section for more details).
  3. Take the RD exam (and pass it!).

Now, let’s break this down. How do you actually do it?

Steps for Applying to School to Become an RD:

  1. Research programs. Online options are available as well as in person.
  2. Take the GRE (if applying at the graduate level).
  3. Take the required prerequisites. (This can be done online, or at a community college to save money.)
  4. Apply to your chosen programs. (This can be done while finishing prerequisites. I was only half way through when I applied!).
  5. Get accepted to the school of your choice and rejoice!

Here are more details on each step:

1. Research Registered Dietitian Accredited Programs

The first thing you should do if you want to go back to school to become an RD is to research the offered programs.

Click here to view AND’s accredited programs.

You can narrow it down based on location, whether it’s graduate or undergraduate, etc.

As of now you can do the coursework at either the undergraduate or graduate level. But, as I mentioned, starting in 2024, a graduate degree will be required to sit for the RD exam.

Since I already had a bachelors degree, I choose to apply to only graduate programs. 

(There are also a few online-based programs, but I don’t know anything about those because I didn’t research them personally.)

Coordinated programs mean you do the coursework AND internship all at once, in one program.

If it’s a coordinated masters program, it will typically be 2 to 2.5 years.

The MPH-Nutrition program at UNC (where I went) is like this, so our internships were set up for us and dispersed throughout the 2.5 years of school. (This happened in the two summers in between classes, and in the final fall semester).

Didactic coursework and internships, on the other hand, means you complete the coursework and the internships separately. You’ll have to apply to both programs separately as well.

I would recommend applying to coordinated programs if possible, as internship programs in particular can be hard to get into.

Hot tip: if you need help with the internship application process, check out All Access Dietetics – they have a Get Matched Course that I’ve heard is really helpful! Use my affiliate code FANNETASTICFOOD for 20% off the Get Matched Course (pay in full option).

2. Take the GRE (if you are applying at the graduate level)

Enough said.

You’ll be fine — just buy a study guide book and use it. 🙂 Especially for the math and vocabulary sections! 

I recommend this study book (affiliate link) from Kaplan.

3. Take the Required Prerequisites to Become a Dietitian

Most of the prerequisites (at least for the MS and MPH programs I looked at) are similar, although there are a few higher level differences, which is annoying.

I took the courses I knew I absolutely needed first. I saved the last one or two for the summer before I started, when I would know which program I was attending.

(You don’t have to have all the prereqs finished when applying to programs. You just have to indicate how you plan to complete all the prereqs by the time the program starts.)

To save money, these prereqs can be taken online or at a community college.

To determine the exact prerequisites you need, check the websites for the programs you are interested in, or call their admissions office.

Prerequisites You’ll Definitely Need to Take:

  • Chemistry 1 + lab
  • Chemistry 2 + lab
  • Biology 101 + lab
  • Organic Chemistry + lab
  • Anatomy & Physiology + lab (you’ll definitely need A&P 1, and you might also need 2)
  • Human Nutrition (or something similar — an intro to nutrition)
  • Intro Biochemistry

You may also need (depends on program – check with them directly):

  • Microbiology
  • Intro to Psychology
  • Intro to Sociology
  • etc.

I took all of the courses in the first list, plus Microbiology. Psychology and Sociology were covered from my undergraduate coursework — I was a Sociology major!

When taking prereqs, I’d recommend starting with Chemistry 1 and 2 and going from there.

The other courses all include some general Chemistry so it will help you to have taken that first!

Also — don’t be overwhelmed by this list. I was totally overwhelmed and scared about all the hard science (that I avoided in undergrad). But it was over before I knew it and actually fun to be learning again, especially since it was working towards a goal that really mattered.

The prerequisites took me a full year to complete on a part time basis, while also working part time.

I took nearly all of them at community college to save money. I recommend you do the same, but check with your programs first to make sure the credits transfer!

For those who are local to the DC area and curious: I took most of my prereqs at Northern Virginia Community College and had a great experience.

Starting in the summer of 2009, I took Chem 1 and 2. In the fall I took Organic Chem and Bio 101. In the spring I took Human Nutrition and Anatomy & Physiology, and, finally, in the summer just before beginning my graduate program I took Microbiology and Biochemistry.

how to become a dietitian step by step guide

4. Apply to Your Chosen Program to Become a Registered Dietitian

Most applications are due sometime between December and February to start the following fall. 

It’s fine to apply to schools before you’re done with the prerequisites. You’ll just send updated transcripts as you complete courses.

When I applied to schools, I had only completed about half the prerequisites. So I just outlined my plan for completing the rest (e.g. I will take these courses in the spring and these courses in the summer) at the end of my personal statement.

5. Get Accepted and Rejoice!

You did it! Time to get out there and start changing the world. 🙂

I hope you guys found this helpful! I remember it being kind of a nightmare trying to figure all this out on my own, so hopefully I’ve spared some of you the same fate.

Is a Nutritionist the Same thing as a Registered Dietitian?

No! A Registered Dietitian (RD), or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), has to go through years of science-based schooling, many hours of technical internships, and pass a national exam. Anyone can call themselves a “nutritionist” – it doesn’t mean much except that the person may have taken a short online course. 

One more thing: RD and RDN is the same thing. Interchangeable. In case you were confused. Also, it’s spelled dietitian with two T’s, no C! 

Lastly, I want to give a shout out to my friend and fellow dietitian blogger Kath, who was really inspirational to me on my journey to become an RD as she did it a couple years before me! Here’s her blog post on the topic which you may also find useful: The Makings of a Registered Dietitian. 

Update on My Path to Becoming a Dietitian

After how to become a dietitian, the second thing I have been getting TONS of emails about is follow up questions for me now that I’m actually an RD.

I’m happy to answer your questions, but as my email inbox is completely out of control, here is some information that might answer the questions you have.

Please check this out before emailing me. 🙂

Info specific to my masters program + internships:

I started my Masters of Public Health in Nutrition from UNC-Chapel Hill in the fall of 2010. I graduated in December 2012 after completing the coursework, internships, and writing/presenting my masters paper.

An MPH-RD program is basically a Masters of Science in Nutrition plus extra public health coursework (about a semester worth) so that we got the MPH-RD instead of an MS-RD. So, we didn’t take any less science classes than an MS-RD program would require.

I loved UNC and highly recommend it. I really miss Chapel Hill, too – here’s a post all about my time there.

how to become a registered dietitian - finishing my masters degree in nutrition

Dietetic Internship Details

Here’s more information on what I did for my internships.

These internships were done during/as part of UNC’s program, since it is coordinated.

I don’t know anything about the separate formal internship application process since I didn’t do it, but if you need help with the internship application process, check out All Access Dietetics – they have a Get Matched Course that I’ve heard is really helpful! Use my affiliate code FANNETASTICFOOD for 20% off the Get Matched Course (pay in full option).

If you are doing a program where you find your own internships, or if you want some volunteer experience before applying to programs, check out preRD.org – they connect nutrition students to dietitians that can provide mentorship and/or volunteer, internship, and job opportunities.

Dietetic Internship #1:

I spent the first summer (2011) between classes doing my community/public health rotation at the NC Cooperative Extension.

Here’s a post about one of my days there: A Day with the NC Cooperative Extension. We taught cooking classes for kids, led community events, taught adults about hypertension and eating healthy, made healthy eating materials (see How to Make a Recipe Healthier), and more. It was a lot of fun!

Dietetic Internship #2:

My second summer (2012) internship was clinicals, where we all interned in hospitals.

Most of my classmates interned in NC, but I was able to come back up to DC to intern at Washington Hospital Center.

I wrote a little about it in this post: First Week at My Hospital Internship!

Dietetic Internship #3:

My final internship was in the fall of 2012, and we were able to basically create our own internship. (Your third internship in a Masters of Science program is normally a food service rotation, but since I was in a Masters of Public Health Nutrition program, it was different)

Classmates did a variety of things, interning in hospitals, at public health organizations, food service, etc.

I broke mine into three mini-internships and interned with a corporate wellness organization and two private practice dietitians, all here in the DC area.

You can read more about my corporate wellness internship in this post.

Interning with private practice RDs was really helpful when it came to starting my own practice later!

What I’ve been up to since becoming a Registered Dietitian

Ever since graduating, I have been working for myself full time. I do a combination of nutrition counseling, blogging, and freelance writing and nutrition corporate presentations. (I contract with corporate wellness companies to do these).

You may be interested in this post: How to Start a Blog on WordPress.

As well as this post: How to Make Money as a Blogger. 

After I studied for and took the RD exam in February 2013 (more details on how I studied: how to pass the RD exam), I started my own nutrition counseling private practice here in the Washington DC area (www.AnneTheRD.com).

a registered dietitian providing nutrition coaching

If you’re interested in started your own practice, please check out this post: How to Start a Nutrition Counseling Private Practice.

I counsel clients using an approach called Intuitive Eating. We work together to improve their relationships with food in a way that has them eating food that makes them feel good, but still allows for indulgence, too.

If you’re interested in learning more about intuitive eating, check out this book: Intuitive Eating: A Revolutionary Program That Works. 

I also taught the Basic Nutrition course to undergraduates at The George Washington University in DC in the spring of 2013. And, I’ve developed a Nutrition for Runners Program with a running coach and a 6 Week Virtual Intuitive and Mindful Eating Program with other RDs who specialize in intuitive eating.

I either work from home or out of a co-working space, and my days are mostly a mix of computer work (blogging, client research/follow ups, freelance writing, emails) and client meetings (both in person at a coffee shop, and via phone or Skype). 

What is a Typical Work Day Like for a Registered Dietitian and Blogger?

Here are a bunch of “Day in the Life” blog posts: Day in the Life of a Dietitian Blogger (December 2016), April 2016, September 2015, February 2015, September 2014. You can see all my more recent posts here: Day in the Life blog posts.

I absolutely love what I do, and I don’t regret going back to school at all, even though it was a long process (and created a lot of expensive loans).

Follow your dreams – you won’t be sorry! Let me know if you have any more questions about how to become a Registered Dietitian that I didn’t already cover here!

- anne

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320 comments
  • Alysa Bajenaru, RD, CPT
    What a great resource! All the info in one place. I know this will be helpful to many people. Good job! And I second your suggestion of applying for a coordinated program if possible.
    Reply
  • Estela @ Weekly Bite
    Great info Anne! I get these questions all the time! I'm referring them to your post from now on :)
    Reply
  • Allison
    Great post! I have to admit... it brought back some "wonderful" memories of going through the process last year :) It's tough but TOTALLY worth it... I'm happier than I've ever been. To those that are considering this, definitely forge on! Although they all cover the same required courses, every school is slightly different so do your homework on which program is best for you. Yay future RD's of the world!!!
    Reply
  • Amanda
    Thank you for sharing this information Anne. This is something I have been thinking about for a long time. I've been searching for a new path that where I can focus on food and healthy living. I thought about going to culinary school, but after much debate, I think this is going to be a better choice. I got my transcripts from my undergrad today...the process starts now! Thanks again!
    Reply
  • Juliette
    Hi Anne! Thanks for this breakdown! Do you know much about the difference between the paths for becoming an RD vs a CCN (certified clinical nutritionist)? I'm interested in pursuing a degree in nutrition so I can integrate my background in journalism/communications with my interest in nutrition/wellness (especially from a holistic standpoint). I'm not sure that for me, becoming an RD is the right option based on what I want to do. Do you have any insight? Thank you!
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Being a "nutritionist" is a huge difference from being an RD - a nutritionist is usually just someone who has taken a brief online course, that's it. Way less credibility when compared to the massive amount of intensely science schooling that RD's go through, plus internships, etc.
      Reply
      • Lilly
        Hi Anne, Thanks for the information. Nowadays Professional Nutrition Certifications, especially in California where I am, are much more lengthy, (6-18 months long ) course intensive and specialized. The internship is usually not included tho. Although AND may not recognize these programs, major universities, local and state agencies as well as local school districts do. I found your recommendations spot on and extremely helpful to someone who needs a step by step as you have laid out. Thank you again for the time, energy and thoughtfulness that you have put into writing these articles to help so many others interested in this profession. Best to you.
        Reply
        • Anne
          Thank you Lilly! Happy to help.
          Reply
    • Robin
      Juliette and others reading, the ANA (American Nutrition Association) summarizes some of the differences between various health-related degrees on their website: http://americannutritionassociation.org/toolsandresources/descriptiondegreescredentials For some people, the RD path is exactly what they are seeking. For others (like me), the CCN path seems to cover my specific interests more. I am going through a journey of healing my gut and autoimmunity through food and holistic approaches, which involves understanding food intolerances that cause inflammation. But there are even wonderful allopathic MDs (Mark Hyman, Terry Wahls, Amy Myers, etc) that are advocating this concept of whole-body approach to healing through Functional Medicine and nutrition. It's an exciting time to enter a health-related profession!
      Reply
  • Jen @ Jen Is Green
    Helpful! I'm in the process of taking pre-reqs right now, but I'm working full-time and taking one class a semester (which is all my work will pay for) so it's going to be a SLOW process, but hopefully I'll get there! I just wish I had taken some science in undergrad! Haha. Thanks for the info! :-)
    Reply
    • Jackie
      I'm trying to do the same and finding it really difficult to find a program that has online or evening classes that is accredited! Any suggestions ?
      Reply
  • Rachel
    Hi Anne! I am a recent follower to your blog and a current sophomore at UW Madison in Pre-Dietetics. Seeing all your great experiences at your internship is helping me get through undergrad to get to the good stuff! Thanks!
    Reply
  • Linda - a Canadian RD
    Good luck everyone! You will enjoy your new career!
    Reply
  • Annie
    This is so helpful, thanks!
    Reply
  • Lauren
    I'm in a dietetics program now but and will be applying for internships next year. I am also kinda interested in public health. Do you know if there are many programs for combined internships/master's of public health? What extra stuff is required for the public health aspect?
    Reply
    • Anne P
      I think UNC is one of few (if not the only) MPH-nutrition coordinated program. Our program is 2.5 years instead of the regular 2 - the extra semester is the additional public health stuff (although it's sprinkled throughout the years) - biostats, epidemiology, public health mgmt, etc.
      Reply
  • Kath
    I'm planning to do this soon too and will put in a link to your page!
    Reply
  • Tay
    I'm in the process of applying to internships right now, and I was looking into masters/internship combined programs. However, I think I'm going to do an internship THEN get my masters in sports nutrition rather than in nutrition science (which is what most combined programs seem to offer).
    Reply
    • Anne P
      I'm pretty sure Colorado State has a coordinated sports nutrition program - or you can focus on it heavily or something? I was looking into it and debated going there. Check it out!
      Reply
  • Sarah @ See Sarah Graduate
    I'm debating on taking this route now too and wondering--do you need two semesters of organic chem & bio chem? Or just one?
    Reply
    • Anne P
      I just took one of each - but these prerequisites vary slightly by school!
      Reply
  • Paige
    Ahhhh thanks so much! I totally forgot about this post. This was 100% more helpful than any other information I've seen about applying for the Masters (as someone with no science background). The ADA should link to this on their website!!! (sorry to harass you on gchat while you're studying!)
    Reply
  • Gretchen @ Honey, I Shrunk the Gretchen!
    Anne, I keep coming back to this page over and over again - it's such a wealth of information! Evidently my mom's new dream is for me to follow in your footsteps and become a dietician -- she even said she'd be willing to pay for it! An offer like that makes a girl really think... though I would be starting from zip, zero, and zilch like you did. Plus, there aren't any schools in the DC area, are there? Food for thought...
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Well damn... a full ride? What the hell?! :) But you're right - no schools in DC area for masters programs. Closest is JHU! And it's definitely a long process (will have taken me 3.5 years, start to finish, including all summers) and includes a TON of science, med-school type stuff, etc. But it's worth it if you think it's really what you want to do!
      Reply
      • Sandi R
        I also live in Maryland just outside of DC. Why will it take 3.5 years at Johns Hopkins University but only 2-2.5 years elsewhere? What do you think about online accreditation? I have a BFA & years of restaurant experience but I have a passion to want to help people learn to eat better for improved health & disease prevention.
        Reply
        • Anne
          Sorry, I don't know anything about the Johns Hopkins program, or about online programs!
          Reply
  • Jem
    I just wanted to say thank you for this information. I have been wanting to do the big career jump and needed some motivation. You definately inspired me and I just wanted to say Thank You! Good luck on your journey!
    Reply
  • Leslie
    Thank you for this break down! I graduated with a Political Science degree and now I'm considering becoming an RD. I wish I would have followed my heart earlier in life, but like you mentioned, a slew of office jobs made me realize that: 1. Law school wasn't for me and 2. I love the healthy living world and want to be part of it full time! I still have not made any decisions about going back to school (due to current loans), but this blog entry is really encouraging! Leslie S.
    Reply
  • Abby
    I've read through this post about five times in the past week. I'm about to finish a degree in education... but I'm seriously considering pursuing this as my long term career instead. I don't have any of the pre-reqs and the amount of science is super intimidating... but I can't stop thinking about it!
    Reply
    • Anne P
      If you really think it's what you want to do, don't let the amount of coursework intimidate you... it'll be over before you know it! And the science really isn't that scary :)
      Reply
  • Alex
    This is so helpful. Thank you so much! It is definitely scary going back to school (I am in a very similar situation as you - but also did not have an amazing undergrad GPA so definitely will NOT be getting into UNC's amazing program). I am definitely considering a MPH, most likely in nutrition, but am not sure if I am interested in becoming an RD. Do you know if most people in your program intend on becoming an RD as well- or any are using their MPH for other careers?
    Reply
    • Anne P
      I'm glad it was helpful! :) UNC's MPH in Nutrition is specifically geared towards the ADA's requirements for becoming an RD, so all of us are doing this program to become RD's. But I'm sure other schools have just general MPH programs (maybe in nutrition or just more general) that aren't geared towards becoming an RD!
      Reply
      • Claudia
        Anne, thank you so much for the information. I have a bachelor's in business and in April I started my MPH, general for now. After taking some of the classes, I wrote a paper on malnutrition in children and stunt growth and loved learning about nutrition and how important it is for good health and development. That said, now I want to become a RDN, just starting to research what I'm supposed to do and learn all the acronyms. So, my question to you is, is the RD and RDN the same thing? Also, if I want to be come a RD, should I stop taking my MPH classes and go to community college for the prerequisites I need and then finish my MPH? The only problem I have is that I have to take the Masters online because of family and work responsibilities. I'm a mother of 2 :) therefore even though NCU's MPH-Nutrition program sounds amazing, I am afraid I would have to stick with a general MPH since they don't offer it online. So, I wonder if having the RD and MPH would be considered a plus when finding a job? or would employers prefer an MPH-Nutrition like yours? Thank you so much for your help. Claudia.
        Reply
        • Anne
          Yes, RD and RDN is the same thing. As for the rest, it will be up to you! Might make sense to finish the MPH and explore the RD route later...
          Reply
    • Anne P
      Oh and one more thing - even if your undergrad GPA wasn't amazing, it might not matter if you still have a ton of prerequisites to make up. They will basically only be looking at the grades for the relevant prereqs, so you can always take those classes now and blow them out of the water :)
      Reply
      • Alex
        Thank you again!!! UNC is an amazing program as you know, and looks sooo nice from your pics!! If you dont mind I have one more question :) Did you take the pre-reqs at a community college, or a real school? I am undecided about that (though I know higher level classes are not usually offered at CC's).
        Reply
        • Anne P
          I took almost everything at a community college - I'd definitely recommend doing that if you can, it's WAY cheaper! Everything you need as a prereq should be offered at a community college near you - it's not too high level!
          Reply
          • Alex
            Great to know, thanks again :)
            Reply
  • Leslie
    I keep coming back to this post. It is so helpful! I'm working on taking pre-reqs right now. Did you take Anatomy & Physiology + lab in a combined course or separate? Thanks! Leslie
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Yay, good! It was a combined course - I'd recommend doing that since it's better to have the same teacher at the same time for lecture and lab so it goes together well!
      Reply
  • Jessica @ For the Fun of Fit
    I'm so happy I came to your blog today. I really need a career change and have been wondering what it would take to be an RD / what an RD actually does day-to-day. This is inspiring me even more to get out of the cubicle that I'm sitting in. Thanks!
    Reply
  • Caitlin
    Did you have any experience related to nutrition/dietetics prior to deciding to apply to your program? I have a completely unrelated degree (Sociology as well) and my current job is not remotely related to dietetics! thanks!
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Nope! Unless you count the blog, which I did include in my application essay :)
      Reply
  • Phi Nguyen
    Anne, since you were out of school for a few years, how difficult was it to get letters of recommendation for grad school. Did you revisit old professors or made connections with new professors? For me the most difficult part is figuring out who to ask for recommendations–been out of school for 2 years!
    Reply
    • Anne P
      If I remember correctly, 2 of my 3 references were from previous bosses at my jobs, and then I asked 1 of my prerequisite professors that I had that semester. Since I'd been out of school for so long I hardly even remembered who my professors in college were and I'm sure they wouldn't remember me, either!
      Reply
      • Phi Nguyen
        I'm sure people wouldn't forget you! :P Thanks for the reply; it is much appreciated!
        Reply
  • J
    Hi Anne! Wow, this post is exactly what I needed... I was starting to get so bogged down and confused with what my next steps would be! Same story, stuck in a cubicle job and looking to change careers :) I've been considering this for a long time now but I have a concern... it is a bit scary to me going from working full-time to school and making no money. I know this is a personal question (sorry, you can email me and also be vague!!) but has that been stressful? 2 1/2 years seems like a really long time to make my husband bear all of the financial brunt, but I don't want that to be the only reason to not pursue my goals. Again, sorry if this is personal, but were you able to get financial aid to cover living expenses? A final question, and I apologize since I'm new to your blog that I don't know this - have you decided ultimately what you want to do once you're an RD? Private practice, etc.? Thanks for your time :)
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Just emailed you! :)
      Reply
      • Amber
        Hi Anne! I just found your blog and, like the person above, this is exactly what I was looking for. However, I recently paid off about $60k in student loans from undergrad, so the thought of going back to school and not working for a few years is terrifying! How hard is it to get scholarships or financial aid, and how were you able to make it work? I'd love to get your perspective :)
        Reply
        • Anne
          Totally get it. One of the reasons I chose UNC is because I got in-state tuition there (because of the Academic Common Market -- no equivalent program in VA where I am a resident), so that helped big time. I didn't get any scholarships (well, a couple for a few hundred), so I took out loans for nearly all the tuition (federal loans). I did work part time while taking my prereqs (as an editor) and then while in grad school (my blog was my part time gig since it was making money by that point), as did most of my friends, to pay for living expenses. Good luck!
          Reply
    • Danita
      Hi! I'm looking at the same situation with full time job currently and trying to figure out if it would be possible to pursue school. I have nothing higher than a high school diploma, so I would be starting from square one. I have been teaching at a local gym for several years now and also do some personal training. This has always been a passion of mine. I'm curious as well about the financial aspect. Thanks!
      Reply
      • Anne
        Hi Danita -- sounds like you'd want to do an undergrad nutrition program, then. I'd recommend following the link I shared in the post to search for programs on the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics website. Regarding cost, it will totally depend on the program. Good luck!
        Reply
  • Lindsay @ biking before bed
    This is an awesome post Anne. I recently decided to go back to become an RD as well. I found a few programs that you can complete almost entirely online. Some of the pre recs with labs you have to do at a community college. Its another great option for people who may want to still work full time. I love your blog
    Reply
    • Anne P
      Thanks, Lindsay! Good luck with your program!
      Reply
    • tawana
      Hello, where online college did you attend? I would love to do the majority online with the exception of labs, etc.
      Reply
    • Jackie
      Hi Lindsay! I am looking into doing this but feel like I still need to work full time.... Any suggestions as to online programs?
      Reply
    • Kevin Mazariegos
      Hi Lindsay, Thank you for your input. Do you mind sharing which programs can be done mostly online? I am looking for some in CA as I plan on working full-time while taking the pre-reqs and doing the masters program. Your advice will be greatly appreciated!
      Reply
  • Cait
    Does becoming an R.D. involve a lot of math? I have taken Algebra and Pre-Calc in hs and Stats in college (and was not a fan of any of it)! Just curious. thanks
    Reply
    • Anne P
      It involves some, especially when clinical nutrition is involved (calculating amounts for tube feedings, etc.), but it's nothing too crazy. If you've done all those classes you'll be fine!
      Reply
  • Kylie@OhsoMiscellanea
    Anne, This is great! I'm finishing my undergrad as we speak in public health and am looking for a more nutrition based graduate program. Wonderful and informative resource!!
    Reply
  • Carissa
    Great post! I'm midway through my junior year. All our internships are last and I start those next January. I think your tip about the prereq's not being scary is key...especially if you already have a degree. I changed my mind about school so many times bc of those classes...but I'm so happy I made the decision.
    Reply
  • Amber
    Hi Anne! I just read this, and I feel like I’m reading about my own life! I am 22 years old, and I graduated in May 2012 with a bachelors degree in Public Relations and Marketing. I’m currently living in Auburn, AL where my fiance is attending graduate school for Landscape Architecture. At the moment, I’m working part-time (days) at an event center and part-time (nights) as a waitress. I’ve always been fascinated with the human body and nutrition, and I feel like being and staying healthy is my passion! I was to learn more about nutrition and be able to share my knowledge with other people and communities. I’m also very savvy in the kitchen and I’m constantly trying to figure out ways to modify recipes to make the healthier but still delicious. I’ve recently started toying with the idea of going back to college to get a second degree (either another bachelors or a masters) in Nutrition. Don’t get me wrong, I love PR. But I feel like I’d excel in Nutrition, and both degrees could go hand-in-hand. You’re an inspiration! Based on your list, I've already taken 4 of the pre-req's during my undergrad career, so I think I'd only need 3 or 4 more. Do you know which programs take the least amount of time? Please let me know if you have any advice! Thanks so much
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'm so glad you found this page helpful! An MS in Nutrition would take less time than the MPH program that I did... they will probably all be about 2 years (not including prereqs). Best of luck!
      Reply
  • Gabriel
    Hi Anne, I have a BS in psychology and went back last year to school to apply for RD program. I took all the prerequisites and did very well. But unfortunately here in NY only a couple of colleges offer RD program. Needless to say I was not accepted to the program, bummer! They claimed that my record was blemished because I went back to school for one semester to get an MS in psychology but I decided not to pursue that and dropped the course. This was like 7 years ago. What are my chances or what do you advice if I still want to pursue becoming an RD. Gabriel
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Gabriel, bummer about what happened! I'd recommend talking to some of the admissions staff at schools you want to go to - they could probably give you some good advice. I'm sorry I can't be of more help!
      Reply
  • Chels
    Hi Anne, I am truly glad I stumbled upon your page today. I'm stuck in life right now and would be thrilled if you could offer some advice for me. I am 22 years old, graduated from University of Toronto in BComm last summer in 2012. For a year now since I have graduated, I decided to spend another 3 years completing a Bachelor's degree in nutrition in U of T. However, I found the courses quite difficult and managed to complete the basic nutrition and another nutrition course (nutrition & community). I know according to your guidelines, I would have to take the chemistry and biology courses. So I'm wondering would it be easier and smarter to take it at a university like Ryerson which is less harsh or even a college like Sheridan (less well-known but guarantee better marks). I have also found a list of accredited universities in Canada: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_with_accredited_dietetic_programs This scares me since U of T isn't on the list and render me thinking that the past year's credits wouldn't count towards becoming a RD. I'm full of confusion as to what I should do. It would be fantastic and a lot of help if you could give me some advice as to what my next steps should be through email! THANKS A LOT IN ADVANCE!! :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Chels! That's great you want to go back to school for nutrition, too! I so wish I could help but I'm really not an expert on which courses give you credit and which don't. I'd recommend contacting the admissions team at the schools you're interested in - they can help you! Best of luck!
      Reply
  • Rachel
    Hi Anne! I've been mulling over different masters programs as a route to RD... This page really helped. My problem is that there aren't really any programs where I live (Richmond, VA), and moving isn't likely to be an option. Do you know anyone who has done the program as an online course of study? I have studied that way in the past and I am quite comfortable academically (my bachelor degree is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and I am also a paramedic), but I'm not sure about the quality of the online programs...
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hey Rachel! Unfortunately I don't really know anything about online course options... I'm sorry I can't be of more help! Best of luck!
      Reply
    • Marjorie
      Hi Lindsay - was wondering what you ended up doing and what online programs you found that you though we're good? Looking at the career change, too!
      Reply
    • Kari
      Hi Rachel! I was wondering what you ended up doing? I'm in Hampton Roads and am considering becoming an RD. Thanks for your answer! :)
      Reply
  • Lisa
    Hi Anne, Just came across your blog, I love it! I too would like to become an RD; I have an undergrad degree in Neuroscience so I have a lot of the science prereqs, just not the nutrition background. I currently work in a public health job and my ultimate goal is to do nutrition-related research, but I also want to practice as an RD (private practice or clinically) because I love working with people and can't be behind a desk all day! Just wondering if you know of anyone who has done the RD requirements (I will be doing them as part of an MS program most likely), started working as an RD, and then done an MPH? I love the sounds of an MPH/RD combined program but unfortunately there are none near where I live (MA). So I am thinking of doing the MS/RD, then pursuing an MPH on a part-time basis once I start working as a dietitian. Any insight on this? PS: In post 41 above you had provided the person with info about going to school full-time and not making money during that time...can you tell me about your experience with that as well? Thank you :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hey Lisa! There were actually a few people in my MPH program at UNC who already had their RD - they just did a much shorter version of the program (I think it was 1 year?). So definitely do-able! Although time-wise it might make more sense to just do it all together. :) Regarding school full time, I made enough money from blogging and freelance writing to cover living expenses while I was in school and took out loans for all the tuition costs. I got in-state tuition at UNC so it wasn't too bad, although obviously going from making a full time salary to paying tuition/taking out loans kind of sucks. But you just have to decide if it's worth it for you! Best of luck!
      Reply
    • Claudia
      Hi Lisa, just wondering what you ended up doing? did you go for the MS/RD and MPH? that's what I'd like to do, except I didn't realize it until now, when I have already taken 5 courses towards my MPH. Thanks in advance for your reply. Claudia.
      Reply
  • Megan Lyons
    Hi Anne, I will be graduating fromWest Virginia University with a B.S. in Human Foods and Nutrition. in December (yay me!) Unfortunately, the program at WVU is not a combined program so to become a R.D. after I have my B.S. degree, I have to complete the dietic internship process and then the R.D. exam. Can you give me any tips on applying to the internship program or if its better (or easier) to find a masters program that offers both (MSRD). I live in Southern California. Thanks!!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Congrats on graduating soon! I don't have any internship application tips since I did a coordinated program and didn't go through that process. But if you've already done all the coursework, I would go ahead and just do the internship program and then take the RD exam! No need to get a masters unless you really want to. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Franteon Johnson
    Hi Anne, Thank you so much for this awesome info, it has really helped me map out my journey to becoming an RD. The silly issue that I am trying to figure out is, whether to go for a graduate degree or a 2nd undergrad degree? Currently, I have a degree in Information Technology, so I too would need to complete all of the science prereqs. Since I live in Baltimore (Maryland), I have few options but I just want to make a good decision for the long term. If you could share some thoughts or opinions, that would be much appreciated. Again, thanks for this wonderful post. Have blessed one!!!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Franteon! I'm glad it's been helpful. Regarding your dilemma, I would recommend going for a graduate degree - at least for me, it was honestly going to be about the same amount of time so it just made more sense that if I invested all that time I should at least come out with something at the masters level! Obviously it's up to you and your goals though - good luck!
      Reply
  • Fiona
    Anne, I started reading running/food blogs in May and found them inspiring and engaging but nothing relating to my future (I will graduate in Spring '14 with a BS in biochemistry). Earlier this spring I found myself considering an MPH and feeling less certain about my medical school goals. This morning I found your blog and found myself SO inspired! I'm not sure that I would want to become and RD specifically but I am very passionate about spreading the word about the importance (and fun!) of eating well and exercising. I am wondering if you have done any related work in the DC area and/or know of any person or organization that does that sort of work. Again, thank you so much for being so inspiring, I look forward to following your blog!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Thank you for reading, Fiona! There are hundreds of organizations related to health in the DC area! A simple Google search will lead you to a ton - there are corporate wellness companies, tons of government organizations dedicated to health, a lot of community organizations that help with food insecurity, etc. etc. Good luck and have fun! :)
      Reply
  • cecyll
    Thanks so much for this info. I have a B.S. in biology and have been out of the workforce for a while, but I know my passion lies in health and nutrition. I just recently started researching how to become an RD and there's so much information online that it's overwhelming. Thanks for breaking it down. My big decision now is do I get a second B.S. in Nutrition or get my Masters. What will be easier, cheaper, and take less time?
    Reply
    • Anne
      What's easier/cheaper/shorter will depend on how many prereqs you have done, etc. For me, it was going to be around the same amount of time so I decided I'd rather have a masters, but it will be up to you to decide what's worth it for you! Good luck!
      Reply
  • Marjorie
    Fantastic site! At the age of 47 and having a successful and fulfilling career am looking at a second career in health and wellness. Some great tips and advice in this post. Thank you!
    Reply
  • Lauren Seeley
    Thanks so much for your ideas and guidance to becoming an RD Anne! All of the information you posted is extremely helpful!!!! I work full time and I'm looking into programs that will allow me to continue to work full time. :) If you know of any, in particular and don't mind sharing, that would be great!,
    Reply
    • Anne
      Thanks for reading! :) I wish I knew of some off the top of my head, but I don't as I was researching full time programs. I'm sure there are a bunch that let you continue to work full time, though! Good luck!
      Reply
    • Cecilia
      If you go check the Applicant Guide to Supervised Practice - each program states if they recommend outside employment or not during the internship. I am on my final year for undergrad in nutritional science and have been looking for internship programs where I can work at least part time in California. (I'm working 26 hours a week during school) There are some that do but most do not recommend outside employment during internship. Link: http://nfs.tamu.edu/students/undergraduate-dietetic-program/applicant-guide-to-supervised-practice/. Hope this helps.
      Reply
  • Laura @ She Eats Well
    Hi Anne, Thanks for this very helpful post. I am in a similar situation as you were in and need my pre-reqs (7 of them including chem). I am finding I can take everything but Chem online. And with Chem, each class at community college has its own pre-req - adding 2-4 additional classes to take before I can even take the ones I need. Did you run into this? For ex, I am finding Chem 1 requires certain math courses, etc...Just wondering if there is a way around this for someone who's been out of college for 6 years. Thanks, Laura
    Reply
    • Laura-Ashley
      Laura - I'm currently looking into switching careers to become and RD and would like to start taking some of the pre-reqs while I work full-time. I've been looking all over for on-line/distance learning options for the pre-reqs. Do you mind sharing where you were able to take your on-line pre-reqs? Sorry to jump on your post! Thank you, Laura-Ashley
      Reply
      • Laura @ She Eats Well
        Sorry Laura- Ashley, I just rechecked this so I apologize for the delay!!! :) I am in your same situation! I live in the bay area and am able to take Chemistry and Ochem through UC Berkeley Extension. For Microbiology and BioChem - you can take it online via University of New England. For Algebra, LSU offers it online. I was looking at a combo Masters/RD program, but ended up only going for the RD for now due to location. Feel free to email me with questions. I know different programs require slightly different pre-reqs but I researched extensively. Best of luck!!!!
        Reply
  • Anna
    Dear Anne, thank you for your post! I am interested in nutrition and plan to apply for MPH in UNC. Did you have relevant work experience before applying? I contacted admissions and they say that relevant work experience (paid or volunteer) is highly recommended. Were there any international students? Thank you! Best regards, Anna
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Anna, Great to hear you are interested in UNC! The only work experience I had that was relevant was my blog, which apparently the admissions committee really liked. Most of my friends had some internships or volunteer work in their nutrition area of interest, though. And yes, we had one international student from Ghana. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Chrissie
    Hi Anne, I'm a new follower and interested in becoming an rd. I'm in a unique position in that I might be living in Colombia next year which means I can't fully dive into a program but looking to start taking prereqs next spring to get a start. The prereqs are all at undergrad level right? And since I woulnt be able to finish them in the spring before Colombia do you know if prereqs transfer easily and I can pick it up at another school if I end up living somewhere else when I return? Any help is appreciated! I really like your blog.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Thanks for reading! Yes, all the prereqs are done at the undergrad level. And I assume the prereqs are transferred easily - I did mine at a few different schools. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Renee
    I'm thinking about relocating to North Carolina. Was UNC a good school? I know there are some other programs in NC, but I don't know which 1 is best (easy to understand professors, moderate difficulty level, low tuition, done the quickest). I'm also worried about paper writing... was there a lot of 5+ page papers required? Finally, if I want to open my own business for nutrition coaching, do you think the RD is a good choice or would I be okay with 1 of those cheap online certificates + lots of reading on my own? Thank you!
    Reply
    • Anne
      UNC is an amazing program (it's the top MPH program in the country tied with Harvard), but I wouldn't say it's easy in terms of difficulty level (you have to do 3 extremely challenging biochemistry courses, etc.), and the low tuition thing will depend if you get in-state tuition or not. And yes there was some paper writing since it's an MPH program, so our public health courses required that. We also had a big end of program masters paper. If you want to do your own business for nutrition counseling, I'd make the effort and get an RD.
      Reply
  • Eva
    Anne, thanks so much for helping to clear up all the complicated info out there. I need to take all the prerequisite classes and i am wondering, besides the cost of the actual program, how much investment is roughly required to complete the prerequisites?
    Reply
    • Anne
      It will totally depend where you take the prerequisites... I'd contact the school where you plan to take them for pricing!
      Reply
  • Christian
    Hi, my name is Christian and I am currently a sophomore at Northern Kentucky University. I am majoring in Exercise Science, but I would really like to become an RD. I have already taken the Bio and nutrition courses. I just finished Anatomy and Physiology (but didn't do so well). I will be taking chemistry next semester. I didn't know if there was a way for me to finish my Exercise Science degree and then do an internship and then the other steps to become a RD, I wasn't really sure how all that works?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'm sorry, Christian, but I think your school's registrar or your advisor would be able to better help with this. If they don't know, I'd call the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics for more info. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Samantha
    I came across your article after doing a lot of research on changing my career and it's been really helpful! I'm currently just waiting tables as I lost my job earlier this year. Part of me keeps thinking I should continue looking for a job in my field (marketing) but another part of me thinks now is the time to make a change. I think my big concern is the money and all the science classes! Any advice?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Ultimately you just have to decide if you'll be happy in a few years if you're still in the marketing field. If the answer is no, might be time for a change! Sure, it's a lot of money, and the science is hard, but if you really want it, you'll make it work. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Beth
    Hi Anne - So glad I just stumbled across your blog - maybe you can answer a question for me. My daughter is a senior in a Dietetics program at well regarded midwest University and will be graduating in May. She is in the process of applying for an Internship and was recently told (beginning of December) that there is tuition associated with the internships which might be as much as $30,000. I am astounded that she was never told this before. Can it possibly be true? If that's the case, wouldn't a Masters program be a better choice to pursue? Thank you -
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Beth, I wish I could help, but I never did the internship program since my grad program included the interships. I knew it cost money but that sounds REALLY high - I'd research it a bit more? If it really is that much, then yes, a masters program that includes the internships might be a better call!
      Reply
      • Beth
        Thank you very much.
        Reply
  • Janet
    Hi Anne, Could I graduate with an Associates in Culinary and get into Univeristy for the BS nutrition program? Or do I have get in undergraduate associates degree and transfer to univerisity? Its a little confusing to me..
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'm sorry, I'm not sure - you'll have to ask the universities directly!
      Reply
  • Cindy
    Started my 2 nd career after getting msw in 2004. Work with HIV+ clients. Started thinking about some level of dietician degree/ credential- see a real need tied into social work. Glad to see some support while I kick this around. Hoping my local community college might help. My BA in sociology...
    Reply
  • Jess
    This was incredibly helpful, thank you!!
    Reply
  • Gail B.
    Hi Anne, First I would like to thank you for all you do for up and coming RD's!! My daughter is a junior in a health promotion/disease prevention undergraduate program. She is also a D1track athlete on partial scholarship. (Or otherwise she would have done the accredited RD undergraduate route.). She hopes to redshirt a year to retake chem and anatomy to get A's or B's (she has C's) to become more marketable to apply for graduate coordinated RD programs. Her GPA has been in the 3.25-3.3 region. She practices 20 hrs/ week for track. Here are my questions. Do you think the lower GPA in light of her sport will damage her chances of getting into a grad program? Do you think it is wiser to stick strictly to coordinated programs considering the uncertainty of getting an internship? How can she open up lines of communication with program directors most efficiently? She has tried calling and has not had much success with return calls. Are there any experiences she should persue to give herself better odds of getting accepted into a program? She does work as a food prep person in a nursing home kitchen during summers and breaks. She has also volunteered in the college dining hall assisting the RD occasionally when she has time. Thanks so much for any advice you have. -Gail
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Gail! Great to hear your daughter wants to become an RD, too! I'm not sure about the GPA stuff, since I don't know what admissions is looking for, but obviously the higher grades the better, particularly in any of the science/nutrition prereq classes. I'd definitely recommend she do some volunteering, maybe with some other RDs, just to get something to put on her resume and also an idea of what the job is like. Coordinated programs are awesome but really competitive, so she might want to apply to a mix of didactic and coordinated. In terms of trying to reach the program directors, perhaps she can visit some of the schools she's interested in and set up meetings? Good luck to her!
      Reply
  • Brittany
    Anne or others: Has anyone had any luck with finding a reputable online masters program yet that will lead to RD?? I have searched but am not sure if I have come across anything legitimate..I am like many, bachelors in psych.. Looking to get masters online..plan on taking prerequisites at local community college..
    Reply
    • Jeff
      I'm wondering the same thing. Would love to go online full-time. Have you find any programs that offer this?
      Reply
      • Anne
        I didn't research any online programs - sorry!
        Reply
  • Jason
    Does anyone know how long after graduation I have to fulfill my dietetic internship? I graduated in 2008 w/ a BS in Nutrition & Foods Science w/ an emphasis in Dietetics. I never did the internship and am now (2014) I'm thinking about doing it, but wasn't sure how long I had. I thought it was 10 years. Thanks, Jason
    Reply
  • Stephanie
    I would like to become an RD. I'm currently attending a community college and getting my GE's out of the way. would you happen to have any advice for me? Or can you tell me how to go about it, so I don't waste any time.
    Reply
  • Jeff
    Hey Anne, You keep saying that the science prerequisites aren't that big of a deal. What about the actual classes when you get into the program? Are they heavily science-based or are they more application based? Also, to be a RD, does the degree have to be in nutrition science, or can it be in dietetics, public health, etc? And if so, what is the big difference between them? Basically, i'm more into the application of healthy eating than the science behind it all. Would love to take courses that focus on fad diets, food intolerances, food addiction, eating disorders, diabetes, eating for optimal healthy, chronic diseases, gluten intolerance, and so on. Any advice?
    Reply
    • Anne
      The actual programs are definitely science-heavy. No matter what your degree is in you will still need to get in basic biochem, medical nutrition, etc. It's a necessary evil to make sure you understand the fully mechanics behind all those fad diets/intolerances!
      Reply
    • Amy
      Nutrition is heavily based on science. You need to understand the scientific mechanisms behind food allergies, fad diets (metabolism), supplement dosages, etc. If you're more interested in the application of healthy lifestyles, you might consider a career in health promotion or something similar. However, I would definitely be hesitant to receive nutrition advice from someone that doesn't understand the science behind it all.
      Reply
  • Ashley W
    Hi Anne, I'm interested in applying to the UNC program to become a rd. For the required prereqs, did you have to take any prereqs just to take the required ones for UNC? Ive noticed that I'm having that issue & was wondering if you came across that & were able to get those classes waived.
    Reply
  • Renee
    Thank you for the great info.. I am thinking of going to school for an RD. I have worked with food my whole life, in the hospitality industry. I like organic foods and am a fairly healthy person. My family and I eat lots of veggies and grains and very little meat. I like knowing when I eat something, what does this veggie do? Detox? Helps blood pressure? I look up lots of things on what veggies do for your body and watch a lot of bios on natural foods. Sometimes I even give ideas to people who would like to try to lose weight... Tell them about detox veggies or even sometimes cleansing your body with natural foods. Thank you again!!! I am very inspired and it helps me a bit better on what i need to take for schooling.
    Reply
  • Sweety
    Hi Anne, I am a Post Graduate from India and have about 4 years of work experience in Food Service Department and also Weight Loss Management as a Chief Dietitian/Dietitian. However there has been a gap in this field as I had switched over to another industry. Right now, I'm really keen in moving to Canada, being such a beautiful place and also a country which offers growth opportunities in the field of nutrition. I want to get licensed as a Dietitan/Nutritionist in Canada. I currently do not hold a licence in India. Are you able to advise me how to become a Registered Dietitian in Canada? Really eager to hear from you for an honest guidance.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'm sorry, but I don't know anything about the Canadian requirements!
      Reply
  • Kayla
    Thank you for this incredibly helpful post-- I'm in the process of figuring out if I want to apply to grad school for MPH programs in nutrition and it's nice to see it all broken down. Did you take A&P as 1 course? I'm trying to find courses like that in NYC and most of them are 2 semesters courses or just anatomy / just physiology.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yes, mine was just one semester!
      Reply
  • Kim
    Hi Anne! This article has been so helpful. I graduated in 2012 with a degree in English (ha!). Since about 2010, I have lost a bunch of weight and have become very fascinated with health and nutrition. I've been working at an office job for almost two years, and am struggling to look for a next job because I can't stop thinking about the Dietetics field. The problem is, I have none of the prerequisites. The bigger problem is, I've always been pretty awful at science (probably because I was never interested in it while in school). Do you think someone who has never really enjoyed science could be successful in this program? I can be very motivated, but I don't want to set myself up to fail. I always had my mind set on being a writer, so I don't think I ever gave science a fair chance. Also, I'm a little confused about the prerequisites since I already have a Bachelor's degree. If I took the prereq's at a local college, would those courses just be add-ons to my existing degree, then I'd be able to start up a Master's program? Or would I have to get a second Bachelor's degree? Please feel free to email me in response, as I will probably have more questions. I hope this all makes sense!
    Reply
    • Sarah
      Hi Kim! I am pretty much having the same predicament. I barely have any (or no) prerequisites for a bs or ms in nutrition/dietetics. I just received a bachelor of fine arts in acting so I'd definitely have to start all over again. Also math and science courses are challenging for me, but I have a good work ethic and think I might be able to handle it. If anybody has any advice for someone starting from the beginning (with a completely unrelated bachelors degree) I'd really appreciate it!
      Reply
    • Claudia
      Hi Kim, I have the same questions you did on your post. Just wondering if you got any answers? if so, could you share with me by email please? Thanks in advance. Claudia.
      Reply
  • Nicole
    Hi Anne! I am in a similar situation that you were in. I am from West Virginia and have a Marketing degree, but I have actually been considering taking prereqs here and then applying for the RD program at UNC. I am 23 and married, so the one question I have would be, where were your internships and how long was each one? Were they local? I think I recall reading that you had three? The only thing that would hold me back would be having to move away for an internship for a summer. Thank you so much for this post. It has been so inspirational and encouraging!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Nicole! My internships were interwoven into my program since it was coordinated, so I did one summer at a public health organization in NC, one summer at a hospital here in DC, and a fall "create your own" internship working with RDs that have private practices. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Lindsay
    Hi Anne! Thank you so much for this post. I graduated in December with a BA in Psychology, and am considering getting a graduate degree in Nutrition, MPH, etc. I've been so discouraged by all of the pre-reqs, but this post really inspired me. Did you take your pre-reqs at a local community college? I tried to take some pre-reqs this spring semester at my local community college, but all of the classes I needed filled up before I could enroll. Also, most of the classes have pre-reqs and need to be taken in a specific order. Do you have any advice for how to make it through the pre-reqs in just a year?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yes, I did almost all the prereqs at a community college. I recommend starting with Chem 1 since you'll need that for everything else! I did 2 over the summer in compressed summer sessions (chem 1 then chem 2), 2 in the fall (bio 101 and organic chem), 2 in the spring (human nutrition and anatomy & physiology), 2 in the summer (microbiology and biochem 1), then started my program in fall. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Gita
    I actually graduated in 2000 with a BS in Sociology :) and now after 13 years of working in Marketing I decided to become a Nutrionist/RD. Anne, I took all the required science classes such as Chem, Bio and so on, but what I wanted to know is if there are any major nutrition classes I would have to take. Also, did you go for an MS program? I heard that if you didn't major in Nutrition in your undergrad you would have to take several more classes to be qualified for the Didactic program in Dietetics. I have tried calling several advisors at schools but I rarely get a call back and most of the time no one picks up the phone. I just became a mother 8 months ago so my husband and I are willing to make the move to any school that I get into.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Gita! Prereqs will depend on the school, but I just had to take Basic Nutrition before starting my program - I did the MPH-RD program at UNC Chapel Hill. It's basically an MS + public health coursework and is coordinated so it includes the internship. Good luck!!
      Reply
  • Jenn
    I just turned 40, I'm very interested in nutrition and how people react to the food they eat. Last July I became violently ill and had to eliminate gluten from my diet. I feel sooooo much better. This has sparked my interest in investigating what I eat and how I respond to it. I'd like to do the same for others. My question is....do you think a 40 year old can start from scratch to become a RD? Or is it too long of a process?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't think it's ever too late to follow your dreams. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Sofie
    Thank You so much for sharing this!
    Reply
  • Lauren Sanders
    Hi, I'm Lauren! I am currently a sophomore in high school. I am hoping to go into nutrition and dietetics when I enter into college in the fall of 2016. I am faced with a decision that will further impact my field of choice; does taking Spanish or Latin help me more in the years to come of my learning and in my future job? I am in my second year of Spanish right now, planning to switch to Latin for my junior year. My Spanish teacher believes that proceeding with Spanish will benefit my career if I need to interact with non-native patients. Also, I have come to realize that the Latin language will help when learning the root words in my science courses. I do not have space in my schedule to take both languages, though it would be helpful. In addition, I am faced with choosing band or science courses that could prepare me for college and also get college credits. Which is more valuable in this case? I just want to do what is in my best interest and could really use some help, as it would be much appreciated! Thank you for your time.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would go for Spanish and science. Good luck!
      Reply
      • Diana Vasquez
        Hello Anne, Thank so much for all the info you provided is extremely helpful I recieved my bachelors in Spanish. I want to become and RD , I currently have a desk job and was wondering about how long it will take if I could go to school part time ? I would defenelty take my pre-requesites in a community college near my home. Thank you! Diana V
        Reply
  • Amy
    Anne, I just stumbled upon your site and would love some info from you! I've been a massage therapist for the past 5 years and have decided to get a degree in Dietetics. I have to start from square one (minus a few units from a previous go at a college education), but the problem I'm having is that there is no program for this where I live. Is there a transferable major that I can start with in the mean time? Just an AS that covers the basics needed to transfer to the right university with a Dietetics program? Any insight you have will be so appreciated! Thank you! :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would probably go with Chemistry and Biology, since you'll need chem 1, 2, biochem, bio 101, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, etc! Good luck! :)
      Reply
  • Melissa
    Hello Anne, I'm not sure if you would know, but if i got a Bachelor of Health Science, would that qualify me become a RD, or do I need to be in a nutrition program? Thanks in advance!
    Reply
    • Anne
      It would depend if you have taken all the specific courses (science, nutrition, etc.) you need - I'm sorry I can't be of more help! Probably a better question for someone at eatright.org
      Reply
  • Taylor
    Hi Anne, I'm about to graduate from a private art school and my degree program has left me pretty unsatisfied. I decided to start looking into being an RD, but since my school is private I'm in a tough spot. Because none of my course credits will transfer, I don't have any prerequisites to use and honestly am unsure where to start (since I don't have any of the basic college classes out of the way, I have to start all over!). Can you possibly point me in the right direction? I would really appreciate some help. Thanks!
    Reply
    • Anne
      It sounds like you'd need to apply to a Bachelors in Nutrition degree program? I would search for programs on eatright.org. Best of luck!
      Reply
  • Norma
    Hi Ann! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with all of us. Reading everyone's posting I can relate to what they are saying. Sometimes we get stuck in a career that we never intended to do and as a result we are so unhappy! I am at a point where I am ready for a career change and coming across your blog tonight was like God's send. May God richly bless you for sharing your knowledge with all of us!!!
    Reply
  • Alisa
    Hi Ann, It's encouraging to see you have continued to reply to comments even years after writing this post! I'm an almost mother of 2 with a BS in Biochemistry and a cert in fitness nutrition. I run my own personal training business and would really like to increase my credibility (and BE MORE HELPFUL) in nutrition. I know you said you didn't have a science-related degree but I'm curious if you know the answer to this or can direct me to someone who does: Since I have a degree in a nutrition-related field, is there a way to become an RD without getting the masters? I keep trying to research it and it seems a BS is enough but I would maybe need a few classes that I didn't take previously (intro to nutrition, psychology) but then I don't know what to do from there. As a stay-at-home mom with young kids (2 year old and my second is due in September), I need to bypass as many unnecessary steps as possible. So, any advice? I know it will likely be a slow process for me but I have some resources that will expire soon so I want to think about classes before that happens.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Alisa -- you can definitely become an RD without doing a masters! You just need to take any of the required courses you haven't done yet, apply for/do the internship program, and take the RD exam. I would talk to someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for more help. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Rebecca
    Hi Anne, I found your post to be very helpful. I live in California and have a BS in an unrelated field. It seems that I am in a "no man's land" if you will of available programs, unless I relocate myself to Los Angeles or Loma Linda. I'm wondering if you took your prerequisites at a community college? We have one near my home and they do offer quite of few of the courses you listed. I called ACEND, and the woman I spoke to suggested the coordinated program, however, like I mentioned above, those are both hours away from me (4-5) and I have a family/life where I am now (San Luis Obispo) and cannot relocate. Do you have any suggestions for me? I'm just unclear on what my first steps in this process should be. Thanks, Rebecca
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yes, I did take my prereqs at a community college! It sounds like you might want to look into online RD programs -- you can search on eatright.org for distance programs. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Molly
    I'm in such a similar situation as well. I graduated with a B.S. in Business Marketing and a minor in Psych in December 2012. Since being in sales, I've realized this isn't what I want to do and I would love to be an RD and fulfill my real passion. I have a question regarding the GRE: why did you take the GRE before the prerequisites? I agree that it makes sense to get my masters rather than a second undergrad degree, but wouldn't you take the GRE's after/during completing the prerequisites? Thanks!!
    Reply
    • Anne
      I took it during my prerequisites. I was in the middle of Chem 2 when I took it!
      Reply
  • Jason
    How long do I have to take the RD exam after I graduate? I graduated in 2008 with a BS in Nutrition & Food Science w/ an emphases in Dietetics. I have not done any internship yet. Thanks
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'm not sure -- I'd ask someone at AND!
      Reply
  • Priyanka
    Did you take the pre-reqs at a community college? Will grad programs accept that?
    Reply
  • Fatima
    Hi Anne.I'm a university student of nutrition sciences in Iran.My English isn't perfect.I have same question as Juliette.Do you know much about the difference between the paths for becoming an RD vs a CCN?I know Rd,but I don't know about CCN and the difference.I'm so lucky to know you and I ask my question from you because I want to migrate to America for PHD course. I'll thank you if you answer my question and guide me.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Fatima! I wish I could help but I really don't know much about the CCN credential. I'm sorry! :(
      Reply
  • Missy
    Hi Anne, Once you were excepted to your coordinated Masters program did you continue to work full time? How?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I worked part time in an office during my prerequisites. Once I started my full time masters program, my blog was my part time job. I didn't work full time during the program.
      Reply
  • Shelby Hjort-Michel
    Hi there! I'm about to embark on the journey of building my own fitness business. However I've been considering going back to school for my master's in a couple years and following these steps to become an RD, just in case my business ever fails and also to be more knowledgeable in my field. Could you tell me, if I were to become an RD in say, two years, do I have to re-certify at any point, or is it good for life? Thanks!
    Reply
    • Anne
      It's good for life as long as you keep up with continuing education credits!
      Reply
  • Serenity
    Hi Anne, Thanks for all your wonderful info. I recently graduated with a Bachelor's in Communications and have been looking into getting my Master's in Food Studies. I love the anthropological/cultural side of gastronomy but at the same time I would like to have a RD degree as well. So, for finance & time sake, I'm considering taking as many pre-reqs at my community college while I work on my Master's in Food studies. I would like to find the shortest (and cheapest) route of getting my RD license. Any recomendations would be helpful!
    Reply
  • sharon
    Hi Anne: I just found your page. Do you need to have good math skills to be a RD and can you tell me if all the chemistry classes are hard. I will have an associates degree after this year and want to become a Nutritionist but am not sure how intense the courses are. Thanks.
    Reply
    • Anne
      It's pretty intense, to be honest, especially once you get to biochem. Maybe start with chemistry and see how it goes? Good luck!
      Reply
  • Jessica Alden
    Hey thank you so much for posting this! I am taking my pre reqs now and it is nice to see all of this in one spot! :) Good luck with everything!!
    Reply
  • Tiana
    Thank you I have been looking through college catalogs trying to figure out exactly what courses to take. Quick question I have previously recieved a certificate of completion in dental assisting but finally realized that I had a passion in nutrition as well, since I want to grow in education and knowledge have you seen people become hygienist and dieticians? I am just asking since some of the classes are the same. Also, in your field do you see a lot of competition for job placements as like in other medical fields?! Just thoughts I was wondering before I make a final decision on what I decide to do.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't know of anyone in both hygienist and dietetic fields, but I'm sure it's been done before! And I think the competition in the field is just like any other... seems to be plenty of jobs though. Nutrition is booming!
      Reply
  • Taylor Downing
    Hi Anne, I wanted to thank you so much for posting the information on this site. It's been very helpful. I also have a B. A. in Psychology whihc I received in 2004 and in 2006, I was going to school to get my M.A. in Counseling but things didn't work out. Then I considered going into nursing, but my heart just isn't there. But now, I found a career, I'm truly interested in . My question for you is how is the job market for RD's?
    Reply
    • Anne
      It's great, as far as I can tell - nutrition is booming right now!
      Reply
  • RJ
    Hi Anne: Thank you so much for this life-saving info.GOD bless you! I am a middle aged man with an MBA in Health Care Management and an NASM-CPT. But my passion is in nutrition. I think that I would love to pursue an MPH-RD program and earn my RD credential. However, currently as a CNA, I am a caregiver for my Mother with. Alzheimer's. I am thinking, how do I pull this one off? Any suggestions? Thanks Anne!
    Reply
  • Jessica
    Hello! As a budding Dietetics student and a fellow runner, I am so glad I found this website! The 'recipes' and 'running' tabs are my favorite :) So much new information on the overall site! Thank you so much for this!
    Reply
  • Brittney
    Hi Anne, This site was so helpful, I have looked at it multiple times because I keep finding myself coming back to the desire to learn more about becoming and RD. I graduated last year from college with a BS in Biology and have worked since at as a dental assistant as well as a front office receptionist in an orthopedic surgeon/physical therapy office in Washington, D.C. I was looking for some help in learning the process of becoming and RD. I am not sure EXACTLY what courses are required by AND, I was hoping you possibly know?? Any other advice you may have would be so greatly appreciated! Thanks, Brittney
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would talk to admissions at the schools you are interested in since requirements vary slightly! Good luck!
      Reply
  • Kassandra
    This was super helpful and resourceful!!! Thanks for the great information~ :)
    Reply
  • ASHLEY P
    Hello, thank you so much for this post! I decided RD would be best since I love food and I'm a fitness nut. I went from being weeks away from starting classes in a culinary Bachelor's program to (now) being a year away from graduating in a BS in business mgmt program, before fully realizing I prefer a career in fitness and nutrition. Anywho, my question, after reviewing schools is I see UNC has Master of Public Health with Registered Dietitian Training. Is this a different program than yours? Doesn't the Registered Dietitian Training part mean they offer an internship now? Thanks!
    Reply
  • Annah H.
    Thank you for the breakdown! I'm a high school graduate and I'm very interested in nutrition (and health in general). Is there something similar to a RD that would not require a degree? (Maybe an accredited program or tradeschool that would cost less?) I'd really appreciate any thoughts you all have. Becoming an RD sounds great, but I don't want to have to get deep in debt.
    Reply
  • Amanda
    Thanks for this info! I do have one more question however. Say I live in California, but I want to get my MS in Nutrition in Illinois. Once I graduate and pass the RD examination, would I need to take another RD examination if I wanted to move back home and work in California?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Nope! It's a national certification. You just might need to pay a fee to be licensed in your state - it doesn't require a test though. Each state varies so you'd have to research what is required, but generally, fill out a form, prove you passed the RD exam, pay a fee, done.
      Reply
  • Kelly
    Hey Anne, Your story is so inspiring. My undergrad degree is in Communications and Psychology and I've been working in Marketing for 5 years. I'm now choosing to go back to the RD program. My greatest concern at the moment is passing the prerequisites when I can't remember anything I learned in high school bio and chem. Do you have any advice? I'm trying not to get discouraged, but I also don't want to set myself up for failure. Thanks, Kelly
    Reply
    • Anne
      Just start with Chem 1 and go from there. One day at a time!
      Reply
    • Devon
      Kelly - Wow. I am literally in the same boat as you. My undergrad is in Marketing and Management and I've been in the field for about 4 years now. I'm just exploring my options right now but I really believe I want to go through with a RD program. Have confidence that we are actually adults now and are a lot smarter than our high school and early college counterparts. When your passionate about something, it makes it a lot harder to fail.
      Reply
  • Cassie
    Hello, How long after graduation can you wait to fulfill a dietetic internship?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I have no idea, I'm sorry. I'd reach out to someone at the academy of nutrition and dietetics.
      Reply
  • Katie
    Hi Anne! I'm currently a high school senior looking to become a Registered Dietitian and was wondering if it was possible to do this in my undergraduate years. My ultimate goal would be to be able to complete my undergraduate work, complete an internship and then take the test. Do you know how long this will take because I'm "starting from scratch?" It seems like everywhere I look it's different information!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yes, just go to a school with a nutrition major. The admissions team would be able to help more than I can regarding course requirements etc. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Brenna
    Love this post! I'm finally making the jump into going back to school and changing my career. I'll have to spend the next year or so completing the pre-reqs and I'm curious if you have any suggestions for things I can do to boost my resume in that time. I currently volunteer at a soup kitchen and at a cooking class for disabled adults but I'd really like to use this time before applying to get more involved in the nutrition field.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Sounds like you are on the right track! The more shadowing/volunteering you can do in the nutrition field (especially with dietitians) the better. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Kelsi
    Anne, Thank you so much for this information! It's been invaluable to me while trying to decide to take the plunge into becoming an RD. I graduated with a BA from a small liberal arts school in MA in 2013 and now, in 2015 I've decided I want to become an RD and the thought of another 3.5 years is daunting especially since I will be attending UNLV (in-state tuition) and it doesnt offer a Master's or coordinated program. So, it will be a BS and RD but, it is way more cost effective so I am praying it works out. I just have a couple questions I was hoping you could help me with since I cannot find the answer anywhere on the eatright website or UNLV's website. 1. Why did you choose an RD over a certification in nutrition or just a Master of Science? Is the RD the most prestigious or most recognized for employment afterwards? 2. Is this qualification recognized globally? (Im an expat and always lived abroad so I want a qualification that can travel with me though I intend on being in the US for a while) 3. If we DON'T do a coordinated program and have to apply to internships after we have finished our coursework- are we able to do these internships anywhere? Or is it on a case by case basis? I see you did a couple of yours in DC. 4. Finally, was all this worth it financially? Not that I believe in going into a profession solely for the money- but I do want to make sure that I will at least be able to pay back loans and lead a comfortable life. Looking through some research it seems the job market isn't amazing for nutritionists despite gross rates of obesity. I know you created your own job but did you find that there was a need for nutritionists out there? Did you find that they pay was adequate? I hope this questions isn't too invasive! Thanks in advance for taking the time to read through my post and answer my questions! You have no idea how helpful this blog alone has been. Thanks and all the best, Kelsi
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Kelsi, Glad this helped! Here are the answers: 1) I chose the RD because it's the most prestigious/most recognized by others. A Masters of Science in Nutrition would have been great, but I wanted to have the extra credential, and it didn't make sense to just do the MS without getting the RD, too, since the coursework wouldn't be that much different (although of course then I had to do the internship - still worth it). Regarding "nutritionist" certificate type programs, honestly, they aren't that well respected. 2) I'm not sure. That would be a question for someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). 3) Also not sure on this, since I didn't do the separate internship program. I think you can do them anywhere, but again - better question for AND. 4) Absolutely. There is a huge need for RDs. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Brittny Alexander
    This was very helpful ! Thank you soo much ! You also were encouraging and reassuring to me and I appreciate you so much !
    Reply
  • Lauren Porochonski LMT
    Hi there, thank you so so much for this post. You are such an inspiration for me on my path to wellness. So, I'm currently doing my pre-reqs for my BA in nutrition. My dream school is Bastyr University, which im sure you know, takes a holistic view on nutrition. I became kind of upset though (ok, very upset) when i saw in Fall of 2015, you can no longer complete their BA in nutrition and sit for the RD exam!! Now they require you do their masters in nutrition program to be eligable for a dietitian internship. I'm so confused!! Are the requirements changing across the board? Do i need to get my Masters now to become an RD? Or can i still apply for an internship through another program and sit for the exam. Sorry to bombard you with all of these questions, but i really look up to you and i love your blog, so i finally got up the courage to ask! Thank you so much for your time! -Lauren Porochonski LMT and Herbal practitioner. <3
    Reply
    • Anne
      Thank you, Lauren! As far as I know, you can still become an RD through a bachelor's program + internships, but you'll want to double check with someone at the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. Good luck! :)
      Reply
  • Monica
    This information was very helpful! I am currently a nanny with a BA in English and am highly considering going back to school to be a RD. I have been researching masters programs and am not finding anything that is near me (Tampa Bay). Miami and Tallahassee are the closest I have found, and am not at a position that I could relocate. Are there any online things that you know of that I can do to further pursue this career choice?? I plan on taking the pre reqs at the local community college here. But passed that, I'm not sure what to do.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I wish I could help but I don't know anything about the online program options... I'm sorry!
      Reply
  • Alex Haniford
    Hi Anne, Great information! I'm so lucky you wrote this article and went the school I'm looking at! Do you know if Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry can be a combined course. I cannot find a CC in my area in NC that offers Biochemistry seperately, and they all offer organic chem as a two part course with lots of prereqs before you can take it... Any information you can provide is much appreciated. Thanks! Alex
    Reply
    • Anne
      As far as I know they need to be separate courses, unfortunately, but I'd ask the admissions officer at the schools you are applying to!
      Reply
  • Sandy
    Hello! If you don't mind me asking... how did you go about financing your graduate school education? Did you take out loans or apply to fafsa? Were there assistantships available? Would someone going back to get their masters degree expect to take out many loans?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yep, I took out federal loans (FAFSA). I also got in-station tuition through something called the Academic Common Market, so that helped too. The amount of loans you'll need totally depends on how expensive the program you do is!
      Reply
  • Tierra
    Hey Ann I read your post and you are sooo inspiring, I want to become an RD but it is so hard for me to find time to do so. I am 29 married with 6 kids ranging from 1-11 years, oh and did I mention I have a full time job. I already feel like I cant spend enough time with them already. I really feel that I will take time away from my family if I try to add one more thing to my plate. There is so much more to say but dont want to bombard you with all the things I have going on. What can I do?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Tierra, I would love to tell you to go for it, but it sounds like you have a ton on your plate... perhaps you could start with 1 class at a time and see how it goes? Or volunteer/shadow a dietitian to make sure it's what you'd want to do? Best of luck to you!
      Reply
  • Joy
    Hi Anne, My name is Joy and I graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 2014 with a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Nutrition and Food Science. After reading your blog, I was so inspired. When I was in college, my goal was just to learn how to cook, learn anything about food, and work at any foodservice establishment. JWU offers the nutrition and food science program so I decided to get my degree on both programs just to have a background. I had no plans on becoming a dietitian just because I prefer to work in the kitchen instead of healthcare facilities or just doing bunch of paperworks in the office. After college, I ended up working at a nursing home (long term and rehab) as a dietary chef and I loved every minute of it. But now I am thinking more about actually getting my RD since our Resident RD is trying to convince me everyday she sees me. Although its been over a year since I graduated, I forgot the process on getting an RD in with having a Bachelor's in Culinary Nutrition. Do I have to get a Masters in able to do a DI then take the board exam? Can I take an online course on prerequisites and do my DI at the nursing home where I currently work? What other steps do I have to do? Please and Thank you!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Joy! I would reach out to someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics because I'm not sure of the answers here. You don't need a masters to be able to do a DI, but you will need to make sure you have the required coursework completed before applying to the DI and then taking the exam. I don't know anything about the official DI program because I did a coordinated program that included my internships. Good luck!
      Reply
  • Carrie
    Hi Anne, I'm curious if you have any colleagues with graduate degrees from an integrative nutrition program and CNS certification? Do you find that a graduate degree in nutrition as a CNS or the RD licensure/programs are equally respected in the Nutrition education world?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't know of anyone with that, no. If it's on the graduate level, I would assume it's respected. I will say that the short certificate programs to become a "nutritionist" are not as well respected, though, since they are so easy/short compared to all the time and schooling/internships that go into becoming an RD.
      Reply
  • Shelby
    First off, thank you for this post! It gave me slight relief after researching schools and my options and what exactly I'd be getting myself into! The part that actually makes me feel the most relieved is I also have my bachelors in sociology and have been wondering if I can use that to enter a masters program. I'm sure that totally varies by school, but it makes me hopeful!! The scariest part, besides the toughness of the classes, is going back to school after 2 years when I NEVER thought I would... Any suggestions for me as I look further into this journey?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Just stay positive, enjoy the journey, and remember that even though it's a long haul, it will be over before you know it. Good luck! :)
      Reply
  • Pri
    Thank you for sharing. I work at a major hospital in the Washington DC area that has a major Transplant department. I will be spending sometime with an RDT for the next few months. I decided to shadow her since becoming a Dietician/Nutricionist is a dream to me but I also want it to make sure that I would actually enjoy and make the best of it. I have an associate degree in Design yes I know nothing to do with healthcare but 4 years later I worked in 4 different departments and Dietician will be a dream.
    Reply
  • Sabz
    Thank you. This is a great article and just what I was looking for.
    Reply
  • Emily W
    Hi Anne, Your blog has been so inspiring to me. I've been on the fence about transitioning into becoming an RD but reading your journey that you've shared on you blog helps me to be more determined about my future career. I have a culinary background and want to apply to my school's masters program for registered dietitian but am a little stressed about being accepted because it's so competitive. I was wondering if there was anything you did to help make your application stand out or if you have any advice about that?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'd try to get as much experience in the nutrition realm as you can! That's great that you have a culinary background already, but I'd also volunteer or intern with dietitians, shadows dietitians, etc. And of course get As in your prereqs. :) Good luck -- and I'm so honored to hear I've inspired!
      Reply
    • Taylor
      I'm a culinarian too, looking to become an RD! :) I love the fast -paced work of the industry - it's so much fun! - but I want to have a career that I know will suit me for my whole life - as I get older, have a family, etc. And one thing I don't like about the restaurant industry is that there is generally no interest or accountability for offering great-tasting, beautiful, AND nutritionally benefical foods despite the fact that there is definitely a market for it. I would like to be involved in educating others about nutrition and hopefully also make a business out of working with food myself - whether in a restaurant or catering. Good luck on your studies!
      Reply
  • Taylor
    Thank you for this insightful blog post. I'm also interested in becoming an RD. I, like yourself, have an undergrad degree in sociology and worked in an office right out of college (graduated in 2010). I started culinary school in 2013 and will graduate this December with an associate's degree in Food Service Management. I've greatly enjoyed the fast-paced work of the restaurant industry but I want to qualify myself for a long-term career that will also work with having a family and getting to do the things I love, execially traveling. I would like to counsel individuals in healthy food and lifestyle choices and, mainly, use my more natural abilities (communication, counseling, listening, encouraging) in my career to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me. Maybe it's because I'm a millennial that I've found difficulty in figuring out what I should do for work. I think the best and wisest thing to do is get more education and specialization and my hope is that all of this preparation will serve as guidance and provide more open doors for a career I can be proud of. Thank you for posting all of this info. I had not yet considered a coordinated masters program - the only nutrition programs available in my state with a pathway to becoming an RD are at the undergrad level. I'm inspired to look around nationally.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Best of luck to you, Taylor! Hope you find your passion. :)
      Reply
  • Kassandra Abarca
    Hello Anne! So happy I stumbled upon your blog. I am currently a health science student in my undergrad and have no idea what I want to do but I do know one thing, I love food! And cooking and helping others with food ideas. I do have a question I understand the requirements to becoming an RN and receiving your degree but are there any post degree requirements in your field? Or continuing education that is recommended to keep your certification up to date? Thank you again for your story!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Yes, you have to do a certain number of continuing education hours to retain your RD credential.
      Reply
  • Anne
    Hi Anne, Love your blog and this is so helpful! I started researching some coordinated graduate programs, and I'm seeing that the prerequisites vary between programs. The ones you listed that you'll definitely need are always required, but the others seem to vary pretty greatly. Some require sociology, physiology, or anthropology and some require all three, some require multiple nutrition courses and some require just one. I assume the programs are fairly competitive and I would apply to multiple, but looking at all those additional prereqs seem to be adding up. Would you recommend applying to programs with similar prereqs or how would you (or did you) handle that? Thanks so much!
    Reply
    • Anne
      The ones I applied to had mostly similar prereqs - the main differences were the more advanced classes, so I waited until finding out which program I'd be going to to take those classes (took them the summer right before starting). Good luck!
      Reply
  • Ambar
    Hi, I am ph.d in food and nutrition. Have 25 years of teaching nutrition and dietetics at college and university level at INDIA Now I'm at Toronto and my credential is approved phd. What course is require for me to get job as college teacher/dietitian or realeted field? Ambar
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't know, I'm sorry!
      Reply
  • Tori
    Hi Anne! I wanted to say thank you (with a whole bunch of other people, I see) for outlining what you did so clearly. I'm quitting my office job of 3 years in early January 2016 to start my pre-reqs (at community college, thank you!) and hopefully starting a post-baccalaureate R.D. program in Fall 2016. It's scary starting over, especially looking at Organic Chemistry in my future (I'm a history major...) but seeing that you made it work really gives my confidence a boost. Thanks so much for being an inspiration!
    Reply
    • Anne
      You've got this, Tori! Good luck and enjoy the journey! :)
      Reply
  • Joe
    thanks for the concise page of what's needed. I don't live near any community colleges or major university. Can an RD path like this be accomplished online almost completely?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I think so, except for some science labs and your internships... but I don't know much about the online route - sorry!
      Reply
  • Ashley Rieger
    Hi there! Your blog is so amazing and informative! I love it! I currently work in the corporate world and have been feeling a bit deflated lately. I have been exploring career alternatives for my future life. I have also been very passionate about nutrition and the way our bodies process food. I am interested in pursuing further education and potentially a career, but I want to make an educated decision before my pursuit. Do you have any suggested reading material/books about the dietitian world or nutrition that would help me gain a base understanding of the science. I'd like to be well informed about what I might be getting into before I establish a definitive path for my future. Kind regards,
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would recommend trying to shadow a dietitian... or take a basic nutrition course to see how you like it!
      Reply
  • Michelle
    Hi Anne, I'm new to your site and found it by googling dietitian and nutritionist and found you. Very informative. I am seriously thinking about abandoning my secretarial job, to go back to school (after obtaining my BS in Biology in 1993 !) I'm so scared. I have kids and a husband and a support network in my corner, but concerned that I won't remember 1 thing from all my science classes from '89-'93 ! Just want to say thanks for your insight! I aspire to be like you ! Michelle
    Reply
    • Anne
      Best of luck, Michelle, in following your dreams!
      Reply
  • Erin
    Hi Anne! I now realize i am not the only one considering a career change. I have a BA in Graphic Design and have been working in natural product development management and eCommerce design for 11 years. I am interested in becoming an RD with additional certification in plant based nutrition. My question is.. My undergrad is from The Art Institute of Phoenix and the accreditation for my school is nationally, not regionally as its an arts and design focused college. Everything I've read states you have to have an undergrad from a regionally accredited school for your BA credits to count towards a new degree for an RD. Does this mean my BA counts for nothing and I would literally have to start over from scratch? I find it ironic if its worthless since that BA cost me 96k. Starting from scratch does not sound appealing, as I'd be working at least 40 hours a week still (single, 35, with a mortgage) so the degree would be slower paced. So I guess my second question is.. . If indeed i would have to start from scratch, could you recommend another approach to a career in the nutrition field that wouldn't be as lengthy? I know i can get the plant based certifications (eCornell) regardless of what education precedes it. For me its not about the income, as i believe most RD salaries I've seen pay less than i make now, but its about the fulfillment and passion and wanting a career that i love and just not pays the bills. I appreciate any guidance you may have. Erin
    Reply
    • Anne
      This is a better question for someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as I don't know about whether classes will count or not -- I'm sorry I can't help!
      Reply
  • Julia
    Hi Ann, After finishing my undergraduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics I decided to take a gap year and do service instead of applying right away to internships. I really love what I am doing so I am planning on doing a second year of service. Do you know how many years before applying to the internship that your undergrad degree is valid? Eventually I do want to do internship, but I don't want to wait too long and have to start retaking classes before applying. I haven't been able to find a clear answer searching on the web, so hoping you can offer some guidance. Thanks so much!
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't know, sorry! I would ask someone at the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics.
      Reply
  • stefan
    I'm studying to become a plant based RD. Can you shed some light on market restrictions I may encounter due to challenges associated with the vegan message?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I can't, as I'm not vegan - I'm sorry! I would reach out to a vegan dietitian.
      Reply
  • Mr. Thomas
    Good Evening!!! I have spoken to two Directors of the Nutrition Programs at Morgan State University, and the University of District of Columbia and both told me that I have to obtain a BS in Nutrition in order to 1, enter into a Masters program for Nutrition and Dietetics, and 2, in order to become an RD. I have 88 credits with 32 credits left to obtain an BS but I haven't claimed a major so the credits are a mix of business and criminal justice. I want to take the remaining of my 32 credits in as many nutrition requirements as possible and maybe get a BS in General Studies. With that being said, can I somehow get into a nutrition program to become an RD and/or a coordinated Masters Program. If so could you please help me with a starting point. Thank you so much for your time and assistance.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I have no idea, sorry -- I'd continue speaking directly with representatives from the schools you want to attend.
      Reply
  • sravz
    Hi Anne, I am done with submitting DICAS application, and currently in the process of preparing for interviews. I live in NY. I have my first WebEx interview for an out of state program on this monday, and am really nervous. Could you please give some suggestions for this situation? How to prepare for such online interviews, etc? Thank you for reading my comment and any effort you take in replying to me. Sravz.
    Reply
  • Phoebe
    Hi Anne, I am starting from scratch ( I am foreigner and only have GED), I am currently in Arizona right now with my husband and we move place to place likely every year so I can't take in-person class, I wonder if you know any online program for RD that I could take to start with the prerequisites? Thank you Phoebe.
    Reply
  • Ana
    I am a sophomore at Mississippi Sate University, studying Food and Nutrition. I plan on attending graduate school and getting my masters in Nutrition then culinary school. I also plan on owning my own food counseling business. As an undergrad, any suggestions on what should I do to get my "feet wet"? I want to job shadow a local dietitian but I do not know how to go about it, especially since I am only a sophomore. Any tips on how to ask? ( I am writing them a letter). You have encouraged me, I must say, because I am taking chemistry 1 and I am feeling like "what does this have to do with nutrition?" haha plus, chemistry is NOT my greatest subject.
    Reply
  • Anna
    I am wondering the same thing as the question above... Do you know of any online schools that offer this program?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I didn't research online schools, I'm sorry!
      Reply
  • Jason Zinser
    Anne, Thankyou so much for posting this all. What an invaluable resource! Quick questions; 1. How many hours were you taking per semester in this program? 2. When you were in your internships did these amount of hours decrease? 3. Were there students that worked full or part-time on top of these responsibilities and was that possible or wise? Thanks Jason
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Jason! In my UNC MPH-RD program we took 4 classes per semester. Not sure on hours... for internships, it was full time and we just had 1 class going along with each internship. It was lower credit. Students worked part time during the program but not full time. Once we started the full time internships it was hard to have a side job, though.
      Reply
  • Firuza
    Hello Anne, thank you for this post. Your reply to my comment will be especially valuable comment. I am studying currently Economics, and recently realised that I want to be an RD. I have some concerns regarding education. Some people suggest to take internal medicine course, i.e. Bcs Gastroenterology first, and then take Dietetics and Nutrition as master degree. They say only this way one can really get a good understanding in Dietetics. However there also are 4 year bachelor programs, what confuses me. Based o your experience, what would u suggest me to do? Do I need to apply for four yea Dietetics program, or first take general medicine (which will take around 6 years)? Advice of an experienced RD is highly important for me!
    Reply
    • Anne
      I don't think you need general medicine to be a knowledgeable RD!
      Reply
  • Katheryn
    Hi. I took a Bachelor of Science with a major in Nutrition and Dietetic through a university program with ADA approved standards. I did not have the money then to do an internship and attempted to set up a supervised program under the R.D.s in my place of employment following school--but it came back rejected because these R.D.s had been grandfathered in themselves. I then went on to supervise and direct two different community nutrition programs in NYState before relocating to Hawaii due to my husband's failing health. There I studied Public Health Administration. Fast forward, after his death I remarried, had kids, moved a lot (including internationally), homeschooled for a good 15 years before finally re-entering the paid workforce roughly 10 years ago in my mid-50's. Recently while visiting that NY community I was asked to consider completing my R.D. and coming to work for them again, in that capacity. I am 64, but I am interested. I also am studying through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition to reacquaint myself with the many variable diets that are commonly adopted by the public and their strengths and weaknesses nutritionally, as well as supervised dietary counseling practices. Some schools are accepting this program for up to 40 hours credit. Anyways--long story short, how do I go about figuring out exactly what I need to do to complete the R.D.--who do I need to contact? Will this vary by state?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Contact someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The requirements are national, not by state, though you may need to fill out paperwork to be recognized by your state once you have your RD. Good luck!
      Reply
      • Katheryn
        Thankss.
        Reply
  • Ebonee'
    Your story is amazing first off all!!! I have a Bachelor's in Nutrition/Dietetics but after graduation I went straight to work. I have worked in almost every area that nutrition and dietetics covers from Bariatrics, Enteral and Community Nutrition programs. With that being said I haven't found my niche yet. I currently work as a Child Nutrition Manager for the school system in Charlotte, NC. I'd like to go back and get my master's degree but I graduated in 2004 and still have my Verification Statement where can I go from here? Thanks in advance for any suggestions!!!
    Reply
  • Taylor Webb
    This is my second comment. I'm inspired by your blog. Thanks so much for all the info you share! I would still feel a little lost without it. I also have a BA in Sociology and graduated from culinary school at a local community college in Birmingham, Alabama where I live. I'm making my way through prerequisites - I think all I have left is Biochemistry and taking the GRE. I took "intro to inorganic" and "intro to organic" chemistries which I hope will suffice for all the schools I'm applying to (UNC-Chapel Hill is one!) - I'm getting in touch with advisors to find out. I've felt discouraged lately because I keep hearing how few students are accepted to these programs and how many apply to them. I feel like I'm fighting for one spot with a hundred competitors. I am a decent student - I finished my undergrad at a private university ranked no 1 in Alabama with a 3.49 (I was sad to miss that 3.5 just barely). I got a 3.3 at culinary school and I'm ramping it up to make all A's in my pre-reqs. I specifically want to do MPH-RD programs. I'm interested in the interplay of nutrition and society and how to increase nutrition balance and knowledge, and general health well being for Americans - big pipe dreams. I want to make them more concrete one day but for now I'm in the dreaming stage. It seems like these programs have so few spots, they must accept the elite. How did you handle that pressure? Was that a concern for you? Why did you choose to do an MPH over a MS Nutrition? Do you feel like your sociology background gave you a leg up in your Master's pursuits? What were your classmates at UNC Chapel Hill like? Are they the "elite" students I'm dreaming they are? Less importantly... but still important: did you get student tickets for basketball games ? (oh fun to go to a school with such a great team!) :) Thank you!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Hi Taylor! Thank you for reading and great to hear you are following your dreams too! I was definitely nervous about getting into good programs but honestly stressing about it won't help - just do your best to crush your prereqs and the GRE and write a great statement, then it's up to the programs to decide! The MPH-RD program is basically an MS-RD with some additional public health classes. It's very similar. I chose the MPH-RD just because UNC was the best fit for me, and also because I had interest in learning more about the public health realm. I also really liked that the program was coordinated. I think my sociology background helps now in terms of counseling but it was pretty irrelevant to grad school. The program and my fellow students were great - it's an excellent program. And we did go to a basketball game or two, although we couldn't get tickets to the UNC-Duke game sadly! Good luck!
      Reply
  • Oluwaseun Adeyemi
    Thanks a lot, you are a godsend. what more steps do i have to take as an international student. thanks for your anticipated response.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'd contact someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to ask questions about international requirements - I have no idea, sorry!
      Reply
  • Jeri
    My son has his BS in nutrition and applied for 4 internships in NY 3 colleges and 1 hospital. He got 3 interviews out of 4 but did not get any of the internships. He has been looking for work and it seems without the RD there is little use for the degree. He is starting his masters and plans to re apply for the internship but now I am worried that there may not be a future here. Is the only way to become an RD through a paid internship? The hospital only takes 12 seems like very bad odds and now there will be more graduates flooding the market. Any advise? He worked so hard for this degree and it seems useless
    Reply
    • Anne
      As far as I know the internship program is the only way - I did a coordinated program though so I'm not familiar with the internship process. I'm sorry!
      Reply
      • Jeri
        what is a coordinated program? Are they still available as an alternative?
        Reply
  • Katie B.
    Thank you so much for the information! I am finishing up a BS in psychology this spring and have come to the realization that I want to pursue an RD career. I'm toying over whether to just go back and get a 2nd Bachelor degree or pursuing a masters of health sciences with a concentration in nutrition. If time and money isn't a factor would you recommend the 2nd Bachelor or the Graduate? The reason I'm asking is from looking at the program I want to go to the Bachelor has a lot more nutrition classes than in the Graduate program. Do you feel that you missed out on any nutritional information by not going to an undergrad nutrition program? Thank you so much for the help!
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would definitely recommend the graduate degree - always better to have that on your resume and after your name! I don't feel I missed out on anything - the requirements for becoming an RD are the same, so we took all the same classes (and then some) that those at the undergrad level did. I just had to do some extra prerequisites that might have been part of the undergrad program.
      Reply
      • Nicole
        Hi Anne, Thank you for this post. Very informative! I live in NC outside of Charlotte. I'm a special education teacher, mom of 3, and wife. I have a lot of student loans already, and lots going on with my home/work life. I say that to explain that I'll be taking prerequisites one at a time, which could potentially make this a lengthy process. Will doing this be a problem once I finally get into a program? What I mean is, you have to use it or lose it. I'm afraid I'll have forgotten all the prerequisite material by the time I get to the major courses that I need those prerequisites for!! Does that make sense? Do you foresee this being a problem? Last 2 questions: I don't want a masters due to the thesis work and GRE. Do you know if any NC undergrad programs offer coordinated programs? Are jobs available for RD's without a masters? Thank you, I love your blog!!
        Reply
        • Anne
          I don't believe you can do a coordinated program at the undergrad level, just masters. But yes there are certainly jobs available for those without masters. It may be tough to do the prereqs so spaced out but I'm sure it will come back to you if you review the content frequently. Good luck!
          Reply
  • Tommy
    Hey everyone! I am a male(yeah pretty rare I know) student almost finishing up an Accounting degree at a major state university...I have no debt luckily but am realizing that the corporate world is going to likely suck my soul and probably give me diabetes! My school is Rutgers University in New Brunswick and they do not seem to have a CP program which I believe means that getting an internship is going to be extremely competitive and not guaranteed. They accept 16 students to their internship program which is offered in house at Rutgers. I cannot transfer any more credits to my university so I would have to take the courses at my uni. They do have a Nutritional Science - Dietetics Option. My real concern is even they let students from all over the country apply for the internship offered at Rutgers and even students that perhaps did not even major in the nutritional sciences, but rather the more harder sciences such as Biology or Chemistry with exceptional GPA's. I feel like all hope is lost and that I probably should not even bother doing a 360 into trying to become an RD. I appreciate if anyone could give me some advice or hope! Thanks!
    Reply
  • Tommy
    I should also add that the school has a Masters program that incorporates an Internship, but only admits 4 students. So there are basically 2 tracks. The first track is if you are an undergrad and apply to an internship that competitively admits 16 students, and the 2nd track is graduate study plus guaranteed internship but only admits 4 students. Sounds like quite a gamble to me. I think it is too much out of the ballpark for me sadly.
    Reply
  • Gunja Banerjee
    I want to be a RD. I have been accepted in an Online MS in Nutrition program from a college that is not accredited by ACEND. If I continue with this degree, I am not sure if I'll be eligible for ACEND-accredited supervised dietetic internship program. I need guidance on what would be the steps that I need to follow if I do an MS in Nutrition from any non-ACEND college. Thanks a lot for your help and time. I highly appreciate it.
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would reach out to someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. I don't believe you'd be eligible but I'm not sure. Sorry!
      Reply
      • Gunja Banerjee
        Thank you Anne. I highly appreciate it. Please let me know if you get any feedback from someone at Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
        Reply
  • Khubaib
    Hi Anee, wonderful article, excellent resources you put. I wanted to ask that if I can use the information your provided here in my article? i would provide a back link to your blog as a reference ofcourse. Thanks :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      I'd prefer if you just link to this page vs. reposting the information. Thanks!
      Reply
  • Simone
    Hi Anne! I'm Brazilian and i came to NY recently. I want to be a RD but I wish I could study to be a Dietitian technician first to work and I can't afford to a 4 years college now... Can I become a RDT then apply for a 4years college and study 2 more years to become a RD? Thank you! Sorry for my bad English
    Reply
    • Anne
      I have no idea - contact someone at AND!
      Reply
  • Nick
    So, I'm 32 with a high school diploma. Pretty sure I'll be 36 by the time just the schooling portion is sufficient lapse to have a career in the field. :(. Any careers in the field where I can use my passion for nutrition without becoming a RD or nutritionist? Also, anything that has to do with starting my own business isn't a desire. Thanks for the ideas!
    Reply
  • Diana
    Thank you so much for that! Do you happen to know if all this info is still accurate?
    Reply
    • Anne
      I hope so - if it's not, please let me know and I'll update it!
      Reply
  • Misha
    Thank you for this! I was trying so hard to find any kind of information that can be broken down and you did just that! I was wondering if I have a bachelors in nutrition already and just want to do the internship, will I be paying out of pocket or do we get loans to cover for the costs? Thank you so much for you're blog and insights !
    Reply
    • Anne
      Happy to help! You will probably be paying out of pocket I believe, but there are some internships that pay. Since I did a coordinated program I'm not really familiar with the formal internship process - sorry! Good luck!
      Reply
  • Le
    Hi! Thank you so much for having this blog and this article especially. I am right now in the same situation where I'm having a bachelor's degree of an unrelated field and want to pursue a career as a registered dietitian. However, since I have some restriction on finance, I'm thinking of taking an online master program. I researched and found that North Carolina State University offers a online program in nutrition. I wanna know what your opinion on getting an online master's degree in nutrition. Thank you.
    Reply
    • Anne
      Unfortunately I didn't research online programs at all so I don't know anything about them! I'm sure they are fine as long as they are officially accredited, though!
      Reply
      • Le
        Thank you for your reply. I have one more question about the prerequisites. Do you think it is possible to take some of them online? I'm overseas and would rather save some time by taking them online than wait till get to the US.
        Reply
        • Anne
          Yes, definitely. I took my biochem prereq online!
          Reply
          • Le
            Oh really? That could be a solution for my situation. I have been searching for community college offering online courses and I am a little confused since there are a lot. If you don't mind, can I know where did you take your biochem prereq online?
            Reply
            • Anne
              I believe it was this one (it's been a long time, sorry): https://online.une.edu/science-prerequisites/online-medical-biochemistry/
              Reply
  • Katie S
    How did you manage to take Chemistry I and II in the same summer? Did you take the courses at the same time? I'm planning how I will take my prerequisites and I need some guidance. Thanks!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Most schools offer two summer sessions - so I took Chem 1 in the first summer session and Chem 2 in the second.
      Reply
  • Casey
    Hi Anne! I really appreciate this post because I am having so much trouble finding information on Master's programs to become an RD, it is beyond frustrating, so thank you! I am currently finishing up my undergrad as a junior health sciences major, but I really want to become an RD (unfortunately I realized it was my passion too late in my undergrad to switch to become a dietetics major). I have some of the pre-requisites already, given my major is closely related. Since I only have a year left in my undergrad, I am trying to take classes that will help me become an RD, though I won't be able to complete all of the pre-reqs before I graduate. I feel really stuck in where I should go from here (what classes to take/retake, what programs to apply to, when to apply, what i need...etc). I have tried seeking advice from my advisor at school, but she just told me to research master's programs, though there seem to be very few (which is also intimidating). If you have any advice for me on where to go from here, I would really appreciate it, thanks! (sorry for the long post!)
    Reply
    • Anne
      All my advice is in this post! Look at the prereqs I mentioned and take as many of those as you can. And don't stress, there are tons of masters programs - check out the website I linked to.
      Reply
  • Samuel
    So if I wanted to become a RD would I have to get a college degree or could I just take a course and call myself an RD.
    Reply
    • Anne
      You have to follow the steps outlined here - a bachelors degree in nutrition/science at a minimum to meet the coursework requirements, plus the internship hours, plus the national exam.
      Reply
  • Danielle
    Oh my gosh this was helfpul! You called it...i graduated with a degree and have done 14 years of paper pushing and now i want to have a career change! I have been finding it super challenging to get this process started after being out of school for so long. I did follow the link that you had and there are no programs i am finding in Oregon, which is a little discouraging. But, I am going to read your info again and keep searching how to get started. Thank you so much for writing this!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Glad you found it helpful, Danielle! There are lots of programs in Washington State and California... close! :)
      Reply
      • Tamika
        Thank you for this info I'm starting from scratch and this was very helpfull
        Reply
  • Joanna
    I relate so much to this. I'm in this same exact boat right now. Just graduated from UC, thought I wanted to work full time with another office job but I want to do something more. This was really helpful!
    Reply
  • Chelsea
    Thank you for this! I am so glad that I ran across your page. This is the information that I have been looking for!
    Reply
    • Swa
      Same here! I have my Bachelor's but this has been a calling that I've tried to silence for a long time. I wish each of us luck. Thank you for putting together this information.
      Reply
  • Jason
    Does anyone know how long after graduation I have to fulfill my dietetic internship? I graduated in 2008 w/ a BS in Nutrition & Foods Science w/ an emphasis in Dietetics. I never did the internship and now 10 year later am thinking about doing it, but wasn’t sure how long I had. I thought it was 10 years. Thanks, Jason
    Reply
  • Dee
    Anne, What a gem you are - your wealth of knowledge serves us all- can’t thank you enough as I also have a question. I have lived great as a type one diabetic who holds a BA and a few NCAA certs - I run a gym where I teach other diabetics and now because there is nothing specific to teaching exercise FOR diabetics in any industry per se I am eyeing the CDE- Diabetic educator but want to teach the fitness aspect especially - just can’t get there without a clinical but would I be wasting time doing an RD then CDE ?????? - just don’t know 20 plus years of well managed diabetes have given me a wealth of knowledge plus teaching it - do you think RD is my best route thou ?????.....
    Reply
    • Anne
      If you want to do medical nutrition therapy (aka working with diabetics), I would definitely do the RD and then go on to do more diabetes specific credentials. You can do it!
      Reply
  • ANAMIKA BACHKHETI
    i have completed my mscdfsm degree from ignou with the cfn certificate with it. My bachelors is from medical. I was interested to prepare my self for the rd exams but we ignou students are not eligiabile for writing the rd exams.is there any solution for ignou student so that we should be eligible for writing rd exams.
    Reply
  • Lemarc
    Hey Anne, I currently have a BSc in Chemistry and Molecular Biology. Do you think I would get exempt from certain courses if I were to try and enroll?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Maybe, if the coursework was less than 10 years ago. Call the schools directly and ask them!
      Reply
      • Lemarc
        Thanks for your response Anne, really appreciate it.
        Reply
  • PETRA STOFKOVA
    Hello Anne, This has been an extremely helpful resource for me, thanks so much for your work! I am planning to get a Masters in Dietetics and see on here that you recommend going to a school which is AND accredited. I wanted to ask about the different accreditation and how the difference might affect me. I have been looking into the online MA program with the University of North Dakota because it's about 1/3 the cost of any other program I have found. However, this school has an NCA HLC accreditation which states the following; "the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission which is a regional accreditation agency. Regional accreditation is the most prestigious form of accreditation. Credits will transfer more reliably from regionally accredited colleges than any others". My questions are 1) why do you recommend the AND accreditation and 2) do you think getting a degree with a different accreditation would not be as marketable or somehow not comparable to the AND accredited degree? Thanks in advance, Petra
    Reply
    • Anne
      My understanding is that if you do not do an AND accredited school, you will not be eligible to sit for the national RD exam to officially become an RD. I'm not 100% sure though - reach out to someone at AND!
      Reply
  • Miranda
    Hi Anne! Thank you for all the information it has been very helpful! I am finding myself in a similar situation where I have an unrelated undergraduate degree (BA in Communication Studies). I know that I want to be a career dietitian and am starting to take the necessary courses this January. I will only be able to take one class at a time and will need to continue working full time. Do you have any recommendations on jobs that could help boost a resume for applying to a Nutrition/Dietetics Masters program?
    Reply
    • Anne
      Anything nutrition related... if you are still working full time you could try volunteering a few hours a week in something nutrition-related (maybe a community program?) to boost the resume!
      Reply
  • Marisa
    Hi Anne! Thank you so much for this article, it was extremely helpful! I was wondering if you could give me anymore information. I am in a very unique situation. I have a very unrelated bachelor's degree (Economics) and I am currently in the military working full time. I would like to get out in a few years and pursue a career in dietetics but because of my situation, I have to do a program that is offered entirely online, which is nonexistent as far as I have seen. You mentioned taking the required courses in your article but I can't find those on the website. I'm wondering if it would be possible to enroll in a non-accredited online master's program in dietetics and then complete any additional courses required along with the internship separately after I earn my degree. As far as I have read, you need to be in an accredited program to apply for the exam, but I feel like there has to be a way to get there with a non-accredited Nutrition and Dietetics degree without having to start over and take a whole other program that has the accreditation. Sorry for all the rambling, but I appreciate any information you can give me! Thank you!!
    Reply
    • Anne
      I would reach out to someone at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics - they might be able to help! Good luck!
      Reply
  • Lindsay Ricart
    Thank you so much for writing this. I have honestly been looking into nutrition programs for 2 years, and had I just gotten started, I would be so far ahead at this point. I have 3 young kids and a law degree. The prerequisites were scaring me. :) Even though I have so much schooling, I did not take all of those sciences either. I have been part of a nutrition company for 8 years and have my health coach certification, but keep looking into masters programs to expand my scope of practice. I keep worrying about the sciences, but your words have inspired me! Was your program full or part-time? I have 3 young kids, so just curious. Thank you so much for writing this all the way down to how you tackled the pre-requisites! So helpful!
    Reply
    • Anne
      So happy to hear this was helpful and inspiring! I did my prerequisites part time while I was working part time (they took about a year), and then I did my masters program full time. It was before I had a child... would definitely be tough with kids, but I know there are some part time programs you can do if full time isn't doable! Good luck - you've got this!
      Reply
  • Rachael Jackson
    Hello! Thank you so much for sharing! I too have a similar background in that I have a degree in something totally unrelated. I’m curious, what was your degree in prior to becoming an RD? How did you discover you had this interest and that becoming an RD was for you? I’ve discovered I have an interest in nutrition and want to learn more for others as well as myself. I think the idea of dedicating you’re life to a journey of healthier living is incredible. I think it’s imperative for more people to know about the basic health benefits of food in order to promote a preventive approach to medicine and healing. I’m especially interested in nutrition in relation to hormones. But it all seems so daunting and expensive. I’m 22 and just graduated from college. I already have student loans so the idea of acquiring more is quite intimidating. Any advice? How long exactly did it take you?
    Reply
    • Anne
      My undergraduate degree is in Sociology! It's definitely daunting to think about acquiring more student loans, I feel you there. It's not a cheap or quick investment, but if it's your true passion, as it was for me, it will be worth it! It took me about 3.5 years (1 year of prereqs, 2.5 years of grad school which included my internships as well). Wishing you the best!
      Reply
  • Kelsey
    Hi! I have a silly question. Do you need to get the prerequisites done before applying to a program? Thank you!
    Reply
    • Anne
      Not a silly question! Usually you need to have most of the prereqs done before applying to a program, but not all of them. For UNC, I applied when I was partway through my spring semester of classes, and in my application I put my plan for finishing up the rest of the prereqs over the summer. They will just accept you on a contingent basis - meaning that you are accepted so long as you get a certain grade in all your prereqs (and complete them in time to start the program of course).
      Reply
  • Stephanie
    Thank you so much for writing this and including so much useful information. I have been thinking about starting my Master's for a while but was concerned that I haven't been working in the field up to this point. I found it so inspirational that you also worked an office job in an unrelated field. It makes me feel like I can do this and be successful at it.
    Reply
    • Anne
      You can do this! Good luck and enjoy the journey :)
      Reply
  • Robert
    Did you have to take a lab for each of the science classes you took or some you only had to take the lecture.
    Reply
    • Anne
      The earlier classes all had labs (like Chem 1, Chem 2, Bio 101, Microbiology, etc.) - but some of the later ones like more advanced Biochem did not have labs. Just depended on the class.
      Reply
      • Robert
        DID U NEED TO TAKE BIO 2 IN ORDER TO TAKE MICROBIOLOGY
        Reply
        • Anne
          I don't think so... but I'd call and ask whatever school you are looking at directly.
          Reply