Frequently Asked Questions

What if I complete the degree in nutrition, but choose not to do a dietetic internship? What are my career opportunities?

Our undergraduate Human Nutrition and Dietetics program, like others throughout the United States, is designed to meet the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) requirements for entry into a dietetic internship program and pursuit of the RDN credential. Forgoing the dietetic internship means you haven’t completed your education in dietetics/nutrition and job opportunities are limited in many instances. However, it must be noted that this degree is an excellent foundation for pursuing post-baccalaureate education in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, other biomedical professions, as well as graduate study in nutrition and related areas leading to a research-focused career either with or without the RDN credential.

How do I become A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist?

1 – Complete A minimum of a master’s degree

Complete a minimum of a master’s degree granted by a college or university accredited by a US Department of Education recognized accrediting agency or foreign equivalent, and coursework through an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited Didactic, Coordinated, Graduate or International Program.

2 – Complete a supervised practice

Complete required supervised practice/experience through an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program or Graduate Program.

3 – pass the national registration exam

After meeting all requirements (above) and receiving notification of eligibility from the Commission on Dietetic Registration, you can schedule the national registration exam.

4 – Meet requirements to practice in your state

Many states, including North Carolina, require licensure to practice. Refer to the CDR licensure map and our University Professional Disclosures dashboard for details.

What is a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement?

It is a signed document verifying that you have completed a DPD program and met all education requirements. This statement is needed to apply to an accredited Dietetic Internship (DI) program.

What if I completed a bachelor’s degree in a major other than foods and nutrition? What do I need to do to become an RDN?

You can still become an RDN through UNCG, even if you did not major in Nutrition or if you graduated at another accredited university. Two pathways are listed below.

Path A: Second Bachelor’s Degree (DPD Only)

• Apply to UNCG as a second-degree student in Human Nutrition and Dietetics
• Complete required DPD coursework (at least 12 credit hours must be taken at UNCG)
• A full second degree is not required — only the DPD courses
• Receive a DPD verification statement
• Apply to the Combined M.S./DI Program
• Upon completion, you are eligible to sit for the registration exam

Path B: Master’s Degree with DPD Coursework

• Apply directly to UNCG’s Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition
• Complete DPD course requirements alongside graduate coursework
• Receive a DPD verification statement
• Transition into the Dietetic Internship while continuing the M.S. program
• Upon completion, you are eligible for the registration exam

I have a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement and a bachelor’s degree

You need to complete a graduate degree. You also need to complete a supervised practice program such as UNCG’s Dietetic Internship (DI).

I have a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Verification Statement and Graduate degree

You need to complete a stand-alone supervised practice, such as the Dietetic Internship (DI) program, to become eligible to take the dietitian nutritionist registration exam.

Why become a Registered Dietitian?