The Highest Level of Nutrition Counseling

Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, but only a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has completed multiple layers of education and training established by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

All RDs or RDNs must:

• Get a four-year Bachelors degree in Dietetics or Nutrition from a university or college that offers an accredited nutrition curriculum.
• Complete an extensive supervised internship/clinical program at a health care facility, food service organization or community agency.
• Pass a rigorous board exam.
• Complete fifteen mandatory continuing education hours each year to stay accredited.