How to Become an RDN
To be eligible to complete the Dietetic Internship at Montclair State University, you must first complete the academic requirements known as the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) and hold the minimum of a Master’s degree. This can be done through programs at Montclair State University via our Didactic Program in Dietetics (MS DPD) or Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) Certificate program, or at another institution.
Next, you would apply to and complete the ACEND-accredited Montclair State University Dietetic Internship program. The Dietetic Internship provides supervised practice for students who are interested in pursuing the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD/RDN) credential. Graduates who successfully complete the Dietetic Internship at Montclair State University are eligible to apply to take the CDR credentialing exam to become an RDN.
The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) requires that individuals complete coursework and supervised practice in programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) in order to be eligible to take the exam. This credential is conferred by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) after passing the RD/RDN examination.
**Please note**
Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) will require a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). For more information about this requirement, visit CDR’s web site. In addition, CDR requires that individuals complete coursework and supervised practice in program(s) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Graduates who successfully complete the ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship Program at Montclair State University are eligible to apply to take the CDR credentialing exam to become an RDN.
In most states, including New Jersey, graduates must also obtain licensure or certification to practice. Learn more about state licensure requirements.