2026 Steps to Become a Registered Dietitian in Colorado

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Aspiring nutrition professionals in Colorado often face uncertainty about becoming a registered dietitian. With obesity rates at 24.2%, demand for qualified dietitians is steadily rising, offering competitive salaries and strong career prospects.

This article, prepared by career planning specialists, outlines education, supervised practice, and certification requirements, providing practical guidance to help readers navigate the path to a successful career in nutrition.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Registered Dietitian in Colorado

A master’s from an ACEND-accredited program with supervised practice is required to become a registered dietitian in Colorado.
At least 1,000 supervised practice hours in clinical, community, or foodservice settings are needed to qualify for the RDN exam.
After passing the exam, dietitians maintain registration, complete continuing education, and can specialize across diverse nutrition fields.

What degree is required to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?
How many supervised practice hours are needed to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?
What are the eligibility requirements for the dietetic registration exam in Colorado?
How can you get a license after passing the dietetic registration exam in Colorado?
What types of dietitian specializations can you pursue in Colorado?
What is the average salary of a registered dietitian in Colorado?
What do you need to keep your dietitian registration active in Colorado?
How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?
What are the financial considerations and ROI for registered dietitians in Colorado?
Can international students qualify to become registered dietitians in Colorado?
What career paths can registered dietitians pursue in Colorado?
How can mentorship and networking improve your career prospects in Colorado?

What degree is required to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Colorado requires completing accredited programs that provide both academic knowledge and practical experience. Meeting these requirements ensures eligibility for professional registration and licensure. Below are the key degree requirements:

Master’s Degree in Nutrition or Dietetics: Completion of a master’s degree from an ACEND-accredited dietetics program in Colorado provides comprehensive training, preparing candidates for professional practice and licensure.
Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD): This undergraduate or graduate-level program delivers foundational coursework in nutrition and dietetics, serving as a prerequisite for supervised practice experiences.
Supervised Practice Program: Candidates must complete an internship or coordinated program offering hands-on experience under professional supervision. This practical training is essential for developing applied skills in clinical, community, and foodservice settings.
Registration Eligibility: Graduates of ACEND-accredited programs become eligible to sit for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam, a critical credential required for professional practice in Colorado.

Choosing your educational path through ACEND accredited dietetics programs in Colorado not only meets licensure standards but also opens doors to impactful opportunities in health and wellness. For those curious about career prospects, exploring what is the highest paying job in the medical field can provide additional motivation to pursue this fulfilling profession.

How many supervised practice hours are needed to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Colorado requires completing supervised practice hours through an ACEND-accredited program. These hours provide practical experience in clinical, community, and foodservice settings. Below are the key points regarding supervised practice hours in Colorado:

ACEND Accreditation Required: All supervised practice hours must be completed through an ACEND-accredited program to ensure educational quality and national consistency.
Minimum Hour Requirement: Candidates must complete at least 1,000 supervised practice hours, though some programs may require more.
Program Hour Variability: Certain programs, such as the University of Colorado Colorado Springs ISPP and Children’s Hospital Colorado, require between 1,200 and 1,266 hours to provide additional clinical experience.
Rotation Settings: Interns gain experience in clinical nutrition, community nutrition, foodservice management, and elective specialties for well-rounded professional development.
State Requirements: Colorado law aligns with ACEND’s minimum hour requirement, ensuring state licensure supports national standards.
Flexibility in Scheduling: Programs often offer full-time and part-time tracks, allowing hours to be completed over varied timeframes, including up to a year at UCCS.
Master’s Degree Integration: Most supervised practice hours are incorporated within a master’s degree curriculum, required to qualify for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam.

The chart below from Zippia shows the most common colleges for registered dieticians.

What are the eligibility requirements for the dietetic registration exam in Colorado?

To take the dietetic registration exam in Colorado, candidates must meet specific educational and program requirements. These ensure applicants are well-prepared with the knowledge and credentials needed to succeed as a registered dietitian.

Below are the key requirements:

Minimum Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a graduate degree, such as a master’s or higher, from an accredited U.S. institution or possess an equivalent foreign degree. This requirement is effective from January 1, 2024.
Required Nutrition Coursework: Completion of an ACEND-accredited dietetics program is mandatory. Acceptable pathways include a Didactic Program in Dietetics plus a Dietetic Internship, a Coordinated Program, or a Graduate Program integrating coursework and supervised practice.
Verification by Program Director: After finishing the accredited program, the program director submits documentation to the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), confirming completion of all requirements and enabling entry into the Registration Eligibility Processing System.
Registration and Exam Application: Eligible candidates must register through the CDR website and pay the exam fee. The computer-based exam is offered at testing centers in Colorado, including Westminster and Colorado Springs.
Passing the National Exam: The exam contains 125–145 multiple-choice questions, completed within three hours. A scaled score of 25 or higher is required to pass, with immediate score reporting and the option to retake after 45 days if needed.
State Licensure and Credential Requirements: Colorado does not mandate state licensure for dietitians, but the RDN credential is often required by employers and insurance providers. Candidates should review Colorado statutes for any additional requirements.

Following these steps will put you on a strong path toward becoming an RDN in Colorado. For those exploring a nutrition career path, understanding these eligibility requirements for registered dietitian exam in Colorado is a crucial part of the journey. To learn more about various opportunities and salary expectations in this field, consider visiting the nutrition career path.

How can you get a license after passing the dietetic registration exam in Colorado?

After passing the dietetic registration exam, candidates in Colorado must complete several steps to maintain licensure and ensure compliance with professional standards.

Below are the key steps:

Receive Your Registration Card: After passing the exam, the Commission on Dietetic Registration mails an official card confirming your status as a registered dietitian.
Maintain Active Registration: Renew your registration every five years to remain eligible to practice in Colorado without interruption.
Complete Continuing Education: Earn 75 continuing professional education units within each five-year cycle to meet CDR requirements and stay current in the field.
Follow National Ethical Standards: Adhere to professional and ethical guidelines established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the CDR to maintain credibility.
Consider Professional Memberships: Joining organizations like the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is optional but provides networking and professional development opportunities.
Verify Employer Credentials: Check workplace or insurance program requirements for additional credentialing to ensure full compliance.

What types of dietitian specializations can you pursue in Colorado?

Dietitians in Colorado can specialize in diverse fields that allow them to impact health and nutrition across clinical, community, and organizational settings. Each specialization provides opportunities to apply expertise and improve well-being for specific populations.

Below are the key dietitian specializations available in Colorado:

Clinical Nutrition: Focuses on medical nutrition therapy to manage conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease in hospitals or private practices.
Pediatric Nutrition: Addresses the nutritional needs of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare requirements.
Renal Nutrition: Supports patients with kidney disease through tailored diet plans, often collaborating in dialysis centers or nephrology clinics.
Gerontological Nutrition: Concentrates on nutrition challenges faced by older adults, including malnutrition and osteoporosis, in long-term care or community settings.
Oncology Nutrition: Provides specialized care to cancer patients, helping them maintain strength and recover during treatment.
Sports Dietetics: Advises athletes and active individuals on nutrition strategies to enhance performance and recovery, aligning with Colorado’s active lifestyle.
Obesity and Weight Management: Offers guidance on behavioral change and prevention of obesity-related health issues, with board certification options for advanced practitioners.
Foodservice Management: Oversees nutrition quality, menu planning, and food safety in institutions such as schools and hospitals.
Community Nutrition: Improves nutrition education and access through public health programs and nonprofit organizations.
Private Practice/Consulting: Provides personalized nutrition counseling and wellness coaching, offering flexibility and entrepreneurial opportunities.

23% of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists hold one or more specialty certifications.

What is the average salary of a registered dietitian in Colorado?

Registered dietitians in Colorado earn salaries influenced by location, experience, and work setting. Below are key factors affecting compensation:

Average Annual Salary: Dietitians in Colorado earn approximately $61,350 per year, with hourly wages ranging from $34.51 to $37.76.
Comparison to National Average: This salary is roughly 9% below the national average, though growth opportunities remain strong.
Location Variations: Urban areas like Denver offer higher salaries, averaging over $72,000, while rural regions align closer to the state average.
Experience Level: Entry-level dietitians start near $47,150, and seasoned professionals can earn up to $91,110 or more depending on certifications and expertise.
Work Setting Influence: Specialized roles in hospitals and NICUs generally provide higher pay than long-term care or school nutrition positions.
Demand and Regional Trends: Moderate healthcare demand supports steady salary growth, with Denver Metro offering the highest wages and rural areas generally lower. Expanding healthcare needs are expected to improve compensation over time.

What do you need to keep your dietitian registration active in Colorado?

Maintaining an active dietitian registration in Colorado ensures legal compliance and professional credibility. Staying current demonstrates dedication to the field and supports delivery of high-quality nutrition care.

Below are the key requirements:

Annual Registration Fee: Pay $80 yearly to the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). This fee increases to $90 in 2027. Payment is due by August 31 to avoid penalties.
State License Renewal Fee: Beginning fiscal year 2027-28, a $125 annual fee is required to maintain your state license.
Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Complete 75 approved CPE hours every five years. This requirement ensures ongoing learning and professional growth.
Active State License: Starting September 1, 2026, you must maintain an active license by submitting renewals, fees, and compliance attestations.
Background Check: A $39.50 Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) check is required only at initial registration.
Timely Renewal: Submit all renewals before the expiration date. Early compliance prevents lapses and potential penalties.

How long does it take to become a registered dietitian in Colorado?

Becoming a registered dietitian in Colorado generally requires six to seven years, encompassing undergraduate and graduate education, supervised practice, and successful completion of the national registration exam. This timeline reflects the comprehensive academic and experiential preparation necessary to ensure candidates are fully equipped for professional practice. Variations in duration may arise depending on program structure, internship availability, and individual pacing.

Most candidates begin with a four-year bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, followed by a master’s degree, now required to qualify for dietetic registration. Supervised practice, typically completed through a dietetic internship, provides essential hands-on experience and usually spans eight to twelve months. Coordinated programs that integrate academic coursework with practical training can streamline progress, whereas part-time study or scheduling constraints may extend the overall timeline. For guidance on affordable pathways, consider exploring the ranking of cheapest nutrition and dietetics online degree programs.

Bachelor's degree is the typical entry-level education to become a dietitian.

What are the financial considerations and ROI for registered dietitians in Colorado?

Prospective registered dietitians should assess the comprehensive costs associated with accredited programs, including tuition, fees, and exam expenses, alongside potential opportunity costs. Evaluating financing options such as scholarships, grants, and loan programs is crucial for minimizing debt while maximizing career prospects. Analyzing projected salary trajectories within clinical, community, and corporate roles can help determine a favorable return on investment. Comparative studies, like those outlining how to become a medical assistant in Colorado, provide additional context for understanding financial planning and long-term career earnings in the broader healthcare field.

Can international students qualify to become registered dietitians in Colorado?

International students can pursue a career as registered dietitians in Colorado by completing key academic and professional requirements. These steps align foreign credentials with U.S. standards and ensure eligibility for licensure.

Below are the key requirements:

Foreign Degree Evaluation: Academic transcripts must be reviewed by a CDR-approved Foreign Degree Evaluation Agency through a detailed course-by-course assessment to confirm equivalency with U.S. standards.
Transcript Review and Coursework Assessment: Candidates should work with a director of an ACEND-accredited Didactic or Coordinated Program in Colorado to identify any additional coursework needed before obtaining a verification statement.
Completion of ACEND-Accredited Requirements: All required coursework and supervised practice must be completed through an ACEND-accredited program to secure the necessary verification statement.
Graduate Degree Requirement: Since January 1, 2024, applicants must hold at least a master’s degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or an equivalent foreign degree to qualify for the CDR exam.
Supervised Practice in the U.S.: Completion of supervised practice, via a dietetic internship, coordinated program, or approved Individual Supervised Practice Pathway, is essential.
English Language Proficiency: Non-native speakers must provide proof of English proficiency, usually through TOEFL or IELTS scores, as required by ACEND programs.
Eligibility for the CDR Exam: After fulfilling all educational and supervised practice requirements, international students may sit for the CDR registration exam to practice as registered dietitians in Colorado.

For those ready to pursue advanced degrees alongside their dietetics goals, consider exploring anchors part-time Ph.D. in economics to broaden your academic and professional horizons.

What career paths can registered dietitians pursue in Colorado?

Registered dietitians in Colorado can pursue rewarding careers across clinical, community, corporate, and educational settings. The field offers strong growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Below are the key career options:

Clinical Dietitian: Provide medical nutrition therapy in hospitals and clinics. Salaries range from $70,000 to $80,000 in urban areas, reflecting growing demand.
Community/Public Health Dietitian: Develop community nutrition programs through public health agencies. Expected job growth is 16.9% by 2032, with salaries between $60,000 and $75,000.
School Nutrition Dietitian: Manage meal programs and nutrition education in schools. Offers steady work with salaries from $60,000 to $70,000.
Corporate Wellness Dietitian: Design employee wellness initiatives in companies. Compensation ranges from $65,000 to $85,000 as workplace health becomes a priority.
Nutrition Coach/Consultant: Provide personalized coaching independently or through fitness organizations. Salaries can reach $75,000–$100,000+ in urban centers.
Home Health Dietitian: Deliver in-home nutrition care. Positions offer flexibility, averaging $65,000 annually amid rising home healthcare demand.
Lactation Dietitian: Specialize in maternal and infant nutrition in healthcare settings. Roles are valuable in urban and suburban areas.
Research or Academia Dietitian: Conduct nutrition studies or teach dietetics. Advanced degrees are often required, with salaries between $65,000 and $80,000.

For those passionate about advancing their expertise, exploring a nutritional science degree can open further doors in research and specialized nutrition roles.

What do registered dietitians in Colorado say about their career?

Starting my career as a registered dietitian in Colorado allows me to combine nutrition science with hands-on community engagement. Working with children and families to build healthy habits is rewarding, and the state’s resources make every day dynamic and fulfilling. Manuel
Being a dietitian in Colorado gives me the chance to address diverse nutritional needs while promoting wellness in schools. Developing programs tailored to local lifestyles has strengthened my skills and deepened my empathy for students’ health. Robert
Working in Colorado as a registered dietitian offers continuous professional growth and community impact. The state’s focus on health, sustainability, and outdoor living keeps my work engaging, and helping families adopt healthier habits is incredibly rewarding. Nia

How can mentorship and networking improve your career prospects in Colorado?

Registered dietitians in Colorado can significantly benefit from targeted mentorship and strategic networking. Establishing relationships with experienced professionals and joining local or state-level dietetic associations provides insights into emerging industry trends and best practices. Engaging in professional groups, symposiums, and continuing education events creates opportunities for collaborative problem solving and career advancement. Additionally, connecting with peers and established dietitians can offer guidance on specialized niches and facilitate access to exclusive job opportunities. For professionals considering an alternative but complementary path, research how to become a nutritionist in Colorado to diversify their expertise and expand their network further.

References:

Coordinated master's program in dietetics - Food Science and Human Nutrition. (n.d.). Retrieved from Colorado State University
Department of Nutrition Programs - MSU Denver. (n.d.). Retrieved from MSU Denver
Dietetic internship program. (n.d.). Retrieved from Children's Colorado
Earn an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Nutrition & Dietetics. (n.d.). Retrieved from Front Range Community College
How to become a licensed or non-licensed nutritionist in Colorado - CO. (n.d.). Retrieved from Become a Nutritionist
How to become a registered dietitian in Colorado - CO | Exam, license, and education requirements in Colorado. (n.d.). Retrieved from NutritionED.org
Master of sciences in nutrition and dietetics | Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences. (n.d.). Retrieved from Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Dietetics Bachelor of Science Degree Program Colorado | Dietetics BS. (n.d.). Retrieved from University of Northern Colorado
University of Northern Colorado - Dietetics M.S. with Dietetic Internship. (n.d.). Retrieved from University of Northern Colorado
VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System - Dietetic Internship Program. (n.d.). Retrieved from VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Registered Dietitian in Colorado

Can you major in any field and still qualify for dietetics prerequisites in Colorado?

Yes, you can major in any field, but you must complete specific dietetics prerequisites. These prerequisites include coursework in biology, chemistry, and nutrition, which are required for the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited programs.

Can you major in any field and still qualify for dietetics prerequisites in Colorado?

Yes, you can major outside of dietetics or nutrition if you complete required science and nutrition courses. Related majors like biology, chemistry, or health sciences are common. The essential requirement is completing ACEND-mandated prerequisites to ensure eligibility for supervised practice and registration, allowing students from diverse academic backgrounds to pursue a career as a registered dietitian in Colorado.

Are dietetic internships in Colorado paid?

Most dietetic internships in Colorado are unpaid, though a few may offer stipends. These programs focus on providing supervised practice essential for registration rather than compensation. Students should budget for living expenses and explore scholarships, grants, or part-time work to help offset costs while completing the mandatory hands-on experience required to become a registered dietitian.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for dietetics students in Colorado?

Yes, dietetics students in Colorado can access scholarships and financial aid from state, national, and institutional sources. The Colorado Dietetic Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offer awards, while universities provide program-specific scholarships and work-study. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and student loans, can further help reduce the financial burden of completing dietetics education.