Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is a highly qualified food and nutrition expert who translates the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living.
Getting Started
How to Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
At 6 years to get started, this is typical for Master's Degree-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Master's Degree (typically 6 years) at an estimated cost of $70k–$105k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for registered dietitian nutritionist practice.
Begin Working
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist earn a median salary of $70k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Do?
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is a highly qualified food and nutrition expert who translates the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. The terms 'Dietitian,' 'registered dietitian,' 'RD,' and 'RDN' are legally protected titles used interchangeably to refer to the same credential. RDNs are vital members of the healthcare team, providing evidence-based nutritional guidance and medical nutrition therapy for disease prevention, treatment, and recovery.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Make?
At $70k/yr, registered dietitian nutritionist earn less than the $101k/yr average for Master's Degree-level careers.
$70k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Registered Dietitian Nutritionist | $70k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 7.1% growth over the next decade — slower than the 17.8% average for Master's Degree-level careers.
10-Year Growth
7.1%
Faster than average
Current Employment
80,600
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Significant Risk
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist roles face significant AI automation risk — below average among Master's Degree-level careers. Several core tasks could potentially be automated or substantially changed by AI. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Assisting and caring for others
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
- +Coaching and developing others
- +Resolving conflicts and negotiating with others
- +Developing and building teams
What Could Be Automated
- −Getting information
- −Documenting/recording information
- −Working with computers
- −Making decisions and solving problems
- −Analyzing data or information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12