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What is an RDN or DTR?

What is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist? 
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is a food and nutrition expert who has met the minimum academic and professional requirements to qualify for the credential “RDN.” In addition to RDN credentialing, many states have regulatory laws for Dietitians and nutrition practitioners. State requirements frequently are met through the same education and training required to become an RD. 

• Complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. regionally accredited university or college and course work approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
• Complete a CADE-accredited supervised practice program at a health-care facility, community agency or a foodservice corporation or combined with undergraduate or graduate studies. Typically, a practice program will run six to 12 months in length.
• Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
• Complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.
• Some RDs hold additional certifications in specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric or renal nutrition, nutrition support and diabetes education.

Registered Dietitan Nutritionists work in a variety of environments including:

• Hospitals and other health-care facilities
• Community and public health settings
• Research
• Education
• Private practice
• Corporate wellness programs
• Sports nutrition
• Food service
• Schools
• Business
• Journalism
• Pharmaceutical companies
• The Military

What is a Diet Technician, Registered?
A Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) is a food and nutrition practitioner, often working in conjunction with a Registered Dietitian, who has met the minimum academic and professional requirements to qualify for the credential “DTR.” In addition to DTR credentialing, some states have regulatory laws for Dietetic Technicians, Registered.

Dietetic Technicians, Registered must meet the following criteria to earn the “DTR” credential:

• Complete at least a two-year associate’s degree at a U.S. regionally accredited university or college and course work approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, which must include 450 hours of supervised practice experience in various community programs, health care and foodservice facilities.
• Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
• Complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.