A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a professional who has met the educational and professional requirements to practice nutrition and dietetics. Becoming a Registered Dietitian requires a significant commitment of time and energy, but the rewards of being a respected healthcare professional are worth it. This article will provide a step-by-step guide for becoming a Registered Dietitian.
Step 1: Complete Undergraduate Education
The first step in becoming a Registered Dietitian is to complete the required undergraduate education. The minimum requirement for becoming a Registered Dietitian is a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, food, nutrition, or a related field from an accredited college or university. The program should be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
The undergraduate program should include coursework in medical nutrition therapy, food science and nutrition, foodservice systems management, and community nutrition. In addition to coursework, students must also complete a minimum of 900 hours of supervised practice in a variety of settings such as hospitals, foodservice establishments, community nutrition programs, and public health departments. This supervised practice experience is typically completed in the last year of the undergraduate program.
Step 2: Pass the Registration Examination
The second step in becoming a Registered Dietitian is to pass the registration examination. The registration examination is administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). It is a comprehensive exam that covers nutrition, foodservice management, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice and essay questions.
In order to be eligible to take the registration examination, applicants must have completed an accredited undergraduate program and completed their supervised practice experience. It is important to note that only graduates of accredited programs are eligible to take the registration examination.
Step 3: Complete Continuing Education Requirements
The third step in becoming a Registered Dietitian is to complete the continuing education requirements. The CDR requires that Registered Dietitians complete a minimum of 75 hours of continuing education every five years in order to maintain their registration. The continuing education should focus on areas such as medical nutrition therapy, foodservice management, and nutrition education.
Continuing education can be completed through a variety of activities such as attending conferences, taking online courses, or participating in webinars. It is important to note that the CDR requires that all continuing education activities be approved by the CDR in order to qualify for continuing education credit.
Step 4: Obtain Professional Experience
The fourth step in becoming a Registered Dietitian is to obtain professional experience. Although the registration examination and continuing education requirements are important for becoming a Registered Dietitian, it is also important to gain experience in the field. Experience can be obtained through internships, volunteer work, or paid employment in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, nursing home, or community health center.
It is important to note that experience is not required for becoming a Registered Dietitian, but it can be helpful for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the field. Experience can provide valuable insight into the field and help applicants stand out from the competition.
Step 5: Obtain Licensure
The fifth step in becoming a Registered Dietitian is to obtain licensure. Licensure is not required for becoming a Registered Dietitian, but it can be beneficial for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the field. Licensure provides additional recognition and credibility for Registered Dietitians and can open up career opportunities.
In order to obtain licensure, applicants must complete a state-approved program and pass a competency exam. Each state has its own licensure requirements, so it is important to check with the state board of dietetics for more information.
Conclusion
Becoming a Registered Dietitian requires dedication and commitment, but the rewards of being a respected healthcare professional are worth it. The steps outlined in this article provide a guide for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the field. With the right education, experience, and dedication, anyone can become a Registered Dietitian.