What is a RD?

RD is the credential for Registered Dietitian. Registered Dietitians are food and nutrition professionals who help translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. To obtain the credential of RD one must meet the following criteria:

• Complete a bachelor's degree at a university or college with course work approved by Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Course work includes classes in food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems, foodservice systems managements, business, sociology, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology and chemistry.
• Complete an accredited, supervised practice program at a a health-care facility, community agency and foodservice corporation. This program must be 1200 hours and can be completed during or after receiving your degree. It usually takes six to twelve months to complete these hours.     
• Must pass a national examination administered by the Commission of Dietetic Registration.
• Must complete continuing professional education credits to keep registration as a dietitian.