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Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.)

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RDN Job Outlook

Job Growth by 2030

11%

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average for all occupations is 8%.

Job Need in SD

14 New RDN's Every Year

Accreditation

The South Dakota State University Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). ACEND is the accrediting agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Graduates who successfully complete the ACEND accredited Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) program at SDSU are eligible to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Phone: 800-877-1600, ext. 5400 Mail: 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995 ACEND

Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics Logo

State Licensure

In most states, graduates also must obtain licensure or certification to practice. For more information about state licensure requirements, visit Commission on Dietetic Registration State Licensure.

South Dakota (SD) is among 46 states that have enacted legislation regulating the practice of dietetics. State licensure and state certification are separate from the registration exam by CDR. The SD codified law and administrative rules regarding dietetics and nutrition and the state licensure process are found at SD Legislature Legislative Research Council. Application information for the SD Licensed Nutritionist process is available at the SD Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners. Graduates of the Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) who are issued a verification statement are eligible to apply for a temporary SD Licensed Nutritionist license which is good for 1 year. Successful passing of the CDR examination for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists is required for application to be issued permanent SD Licensed Nutritionist status.

While state interpretations of statutes may vary, it is ACEND's considered opinion that the program meets the educational requirements for dietetics licensure and certification in all states. However, completing an ACEND-accredited academic program alone does not qualify an individual for licensure or certification as a dietitian in any state. Individuals should review their state's licensing statutes and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice and examinations, needed to obtain a dietetics license. More information about state licensure and certification can be found at this link: State Licensure.

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