FAQ
Dietitian FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a dietitian.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a dietitian: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about dietitians
What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Registered dietitians meet education and exam requirements; nutritionist titles may be less regulated.
Do dietitians need a master’s?
Yes, new RDNs need a graduate degree since 2024.
Where do dietitians work?
Hospitals, clinics, schools, public health and private practice.
How much does a dietitian make?
The median annual wage for dietitians was $76,400 ($36.73 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $49,090 and the highest 10% earned more than $103,720.
How long does it take to become a dietitian?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus graduate program and supervised practice of training. New registered dietitians need a graduate degree, an ACEND-accredited program with supervised practice and the CDR registration exam. Most states require a license.
Do you need a degree to be a dietitian?
Yes. Since 2024, new registered dietitians need a graduate degree, an accredited supervised practice program and the CDR exam.
Is dietitian a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +7.7% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 5,700 openings each year. Upsides include help people through food; a common challenge is that requires a graduate degree.
What skills does a dietitian need?
Key technical skills include nutrition assessment, medical nutrition therapy, counseling, and menu planning. Employers also value empathy, communication, and motivation.
What certifications are available for dietitians?
Common credentials include Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), State dietitian license, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), and Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). Most states license or certify dietitians, usually requiring the RDN credential.
Still deciding?
Try the Dietitian fit quiz, compare with Exercise Physiologist, or explore Dietitian training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1031 (Dietitians and nutritionists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dietitians and nutritionists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.