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 the Knowledge and Coursework requirements needed to become a dietitian

This necessary theory and coursework may be taken through the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). The DPD must be completed at an ACEND accredited institution, such as UNCG.

2 – Complete a supervised practice program

The supervised practice, such as the Dietetic Internship Program (DI) offered at UNCG, must be accredited by ACEND.

3 – Earn a graduate degree

You must have a graduate degree (such as an M.S., M.A., M.Ed., or Ph.D.) to take the national registration exam. At UNCG, an M.S in Nutrition can be completed in conjunction with the supervised practice. This combined program is called the M.S./DI.

4 – Pass the national registration exam

After completing requirements (above) and receiving notification of registration eligibility from the Commission on Dietetic Registration, you may schedule the registration exam.  

5 – Obtain State licensure

Many states require that you obtain a license to practice. See licensure map and also our department’s Professional Licensure Disclosure State by State (PDF) document.

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.

2nd Bachelor’s Degree

• Students may apply as a second degree undergraduate student to the Human Nutrition and Dietetics concentration. Students complete DPD course requirements and receive the DPD verification statement.
  • Students must complete at least 12 credit hours of didactic coursework at UNCG.
  • Students do not need to meet graduation requirements for a 2nd degree to complete the DPD program and receive a verification statement.
• Students then apply for the Combined M.S./Dietetic Internship (DI).
• Upon completion of the M.S./DI program, students are eligible to take the dietitian nutritionist registration exam.

Master’s Degree

• Students may apply to the M.S. program and complete DPD course requirements while earning their master’s degree.
• On receiving their DPD verification statement, students are eligible to transition to the DI Program while continuing their M.S.
• On completion of the DI program, students are eligible to take the dietitian nutritionist 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?