The short answer is that Registered Dietitians are Nutritionists, but not all “Nutritionists” are Registered Dietitians.
There is no legal definition for “Nutritionist” so technically anyone can give themselves this title. Because of this, people with little or no formal education can call themselves “Nutritionists.” It is a case of “buyer beware.” In Washington State, to be a Certified Nutritionist one must only possess a master’s degree in Nutrition. While this may sound good, it does not ensure the “Nutritionist” has a degree from a credible university or that he/she has any clinical training to prepare him/her to work with patients. Nor does it ensure that the nutritionist has a good understanding of the science behind current research. Also, there is no requirement for continuing education for Certified Nutritionists in the state of WA. While there are some good “Certified Nutritionists” the Registered Dietitian credential helps ensure a defined level of education, expertise, and current training.
A Registered Dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who has met the minimum academic and professional requirements to qualify for the nationally recognized credential “RD.”
Educational and Professional Requirements for a Registered Dietitian
Registered Dietitians must meet the following criteria to earn the RD credential:
- Receive 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 of the American Dietetic Association. Students wishing to become registered dietitians study subjects including food and nutrition sciences, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, anatomy and chemistry, foodservice systems management, business, economics, computer science, culinary arts, sociology, communications, and education.
- 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. It is this clinical internship experience which sets the RD aside from other nutrition professionals. This is where the RD gains knowledge and experience about interpreting medical labs, assessing patient needs, understanding food and medication interactions, and working along side other medical professionals as part of a health care team.
- Pass a national professional examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- Complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration. (In Washington state a Certified Dietitian must be a Registered Dietitian. To maintain “RD” status, the professional must meet professional continuing education requirements (75 units/ 5 years) to help ensure they are current with their education and information.)
- Though not required, many Registered Dietitians also have master’s degrees.
Some Registered Dietitians hold additional certifications in specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric or renal nutrition, sports nutrition, nutrition support or diabetes education. These certifications are awarded through CDR, the credentialing agency for ADA and other medical and nutrition organizations and are recognized within the profession but are not required.
