Embarking on a career in dietetics is an exciting journey, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers incredible resources to support you every step of the way. For aspiring and newly credentialed Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTRs), navigating the initial stages of your profession can be both thrilling and challenging. The Academy understands this and provides valuable programs and support systems to help you thrive.
Your Path to Becoming an RDN or NDTR
The first step in your dietetics career is understanding the educational pathways available. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) provides comprehensive information on accredited programs nationwide. Whether you are interested in coordinated programs, didactic programs, dietetic internships, or dietetic technician programs, the Academy offers resources to guide your educational choices. Explore your options for becoming an RDN or NDTR here.
Financial Support and Recognition
Recognizing the importance of financial assistance, the Pennsylvania Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (PA Academy), a state affiliate of the national Academy, offers scholarships and awards specifically for student members. These opportunities can significantly ease the financial burden of your education and recognize outstanding achievements. Available scholarships and awards include:
- Outstanding Dietetics Student Award: Recognizing exceptional dietetics students.
- General Scholarship: Providing broad financial support to deserving students.
- Diversity Scholarship: Promoting diversity within the field of dietetics.
- Billye June Eichelberger Scholarship: An Academy scholarship for Pennsylvania residents.
- Sara Parks Scholarship: An Academy Foundation scholarship for Pennsylvania residents.
- Annual Meeting & Exhibition stipend: Supporting student attendance at professional events.
Learn more about PA Academy Scholarships and Awards and how to apply.
Preparing for Your Credentialing Exam
Once you’ve completed your education, the next critical step is preparing for the credentialing exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The Academy provides resources and information to help you understand the exam process and prepare effectively. Access exam information and resources from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
Navigating Your Newly Credentialed Career
Congratulations on achieving your RDN or NDTR credential! The Academy continues to support you as you begin your professional practice. Understanding Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) requirements and continuing education is crucial for maintaining your credentials and advancing your career. The CDR offers a Universal Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) Guide to assist you in this process. Explore the Universal Professional Development Portfolio (PDP) Guide Resource page.
For professionals practicing in certain locations, licensure may be required. The Academy provides information and resources to help you understand licensure requirements and consumer protection related to dietetics practice. Find information about licensure requirements.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Career Starter Dues Program: Your Financial Bridge to Success
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is committed to making membership accessible and beneficial for newly credentialed professionals. That’s why they offer the Career Starter Dues Program, a fantastic initiative designed to ease the financial transition into your dietetics career.
The Career Starter Dues Program provides significantly reduced membership dues for the first five years of your Active category membership eligibility. Dues are incrementally increased each year, allowing you to gradually adjust as you become established in your profession. This tiered structure provides financial flexibility and empowers you to fully utilize the Academy’s diverse services and benefits during your crucial early career years.
Key Benefits of the Career Starter Dues Program:
- Reduced Dues: Enjoy significantly lower membership fees for the first five years post-credentialing.
- Gradual Increase: Dues increase incrementally, making membership more affordable as you build your career.
- Full Access to Benefits: Receive complete access to all Academy member benefits, including resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tools.
- Automatic Enrollment: Student members who become newly credentialed are automatically enrolled in this program upon transitioning to Active membership.
If you are a student member who has recently become eligible for CDR credentials, you will automatically be moved into the Career Starter Dues Program during your next membership renewal cycle and transition to Active category membership.
For any questions regarding the Career Starter Dues Program or your membership, please email the Academy’s Member Service Center or call 800/877-1600, Option 1. Representatives are available weekdays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Central time) to assist you.
For comprehensive details about the Career Starter Dues Program and other membership benefits, visit the Academy’s Membership site: https://www.eatrightpro.org/member-types-and-benefits. You can also access a PDF version of the program information.
Maximize Your Membership and Career Growth
Beyond the Career Starter Dues Program, the Academy offers numerous avenues for professional growth and engagement. Actively participate in networking events, explore volunteer opportunities within the Academy, and leverage the wealth of resources available to members.
And when you are ready to take the next step in your career, don’t forget to explore the Academy’s Job Board for exciting employment opportunities in the field of dietetics. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is your partner in building a successful and fulfilling career in dietetics.
