Your Path to Becoming an RDN
Steps to Take Before and After BYU-Idaho
While BYU-Idaho does not offer an accredited dietetics program, it prepares you to transfer competitively and continue your path toward becoming an RDN.
- Pre-Dietetics Coursework:
- Chemistry
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- Foods & Nutrition courses
- Other key prerequisites to complete a bachelor's or associate's degree
- ACEND-accredited coursework:
- Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Dietetics Management
- Foodservice Systems
- ACEND-accredited Internship
- Master's degree
- National RDN Exam
Enrolling in the Pre-Dietetics Program
Choose a Major
Start your bachelor's degree and complete your prerequisite coursework at BYU-Idaho. You must declare a major for Financial Aid.
Aligned with Idaho State University prerequisites
Strong backup career option
High employability + competitive salaries
Excellent preparation for graduate school
Aligns with many prerequisites
Less direct backup career option at bachelor’s level
Requires careful planning with advisors
Identify Transfer Schools Early
You don’t need a final decision right away—but narrowing options early helps you:
- Take the right prerequisites
- Avoid extra classes
- Save time and money
There are 600+ ACEND-accredited programs nationwide, each with different requirements.
Browse programs here: https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend/accredited-programs/program-directory
Why many BYU–Idaho students choose ISU:
- Affordable
- Close to Rexburg
- Smooth credit transfer
- Online coursework options (Idaho Falls)
That said, students successfully transfer across the country.
Get Advising Help
You are not expected to figure this out alone.
Meet Our Team
Choose a Pathway After BYU-Idaho
Determine if you will transfer early and complete ACEND-accredited DPD program followed by an internship and master's degree or complete a bachelor's degree at BYU-Idaho and transfer to a coordinated master's program.
Review the Pre-Dietetics Advising Sheets for more information.
Pathway 1: Transfer Early (Most Common)
Best for students who want a traditional route
Step-by-step:
- Complete 2–3 years at BYU–Idaho
- Finish prerequisites
- Earn an associate’s degree (important for transfer + financial aid)
- Typical associate degrees: Allied Health or General Studies
- Transfer to an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)
- After your bachelor’s degree, apply to a:
- ACEND-accredited dietetic internship
- Complete a master’s degree (often integrated with the dietetic internship)
- Pass the RDN exam
Nearby programs:
- Idaho State University (ISU)
- Utah State University (USU)
- BYU–Provo (transfer earlier if choosing this route)
Pathway 2: Finish at BYU–Idaho, Then Go to Graduate School
Best for students who want to complete a full bachelor’s degree at BYU–Idaho
Step-by-step:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree at BYU–Idaho
- Complete all required prerequisites
- Apply to a coordinated graduate program that includes:
- Dietetics coursework
- Supervised practice
- Master’s degree
- Pass the RDN exam
Nearby programs:
- University of Utah
- University of Idaho
Fewer programs exist for this pathway, so planning is important.
Complete Your Dietetics Coursework
Complete your additional coursework through an ACEND-accredited DPD program or coordinated master's program.
There are 600+ ACEND-accredited programs nationwide, each with different requirements.
Browse programs here:
https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend/accredited-programs/program-directory
Why many BYU–Idaho students choose ISU:
- Affordable
- Close to Rexburg
- Smooth credit transfer
- Online coursework options (Idaho Falls)
That said, students successfully transfer across the country.
National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Exam
The National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Exam is the final step in becoming a registered dietitian. After completing your ACEND-accredited coursework, supervised practice, and master's degree, you will take this exam to demonstrate your knowledge and readiness for professional practice.
The exam is administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and covers key areas such as clinical nutrition, foodservice management, community nutrition, and nutrition care processes. It is a computer-based exam with a mix of question types, and it adapts to your performance as you progress.
Students can expect to prepare through coursework, practical hands-on experience, and dedicated study time. Passing the RDN exam is required to earn your credential and begin practicing as a dietitian.