On April 22, 2022, the Stony Brook University Graduate Program was fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
Phone: (800) 877-1600 or (312) 889-0040
Fax: (312) 899-4772
The Program will be up for reaccreditation in June 2025.
The 16-month Master of Science in Professional Nutrition Practice (MS PNP) program combines online coursework with supervised experiential learning at clinical, public health/community, and food service management sites. In order to be eligible to sit for the registration examination and become a RDN, students must complete the MS PNP, inclusive of required coursework (33 credits) and supervised experiential learning hours (1022 hours and 17 credits). Following completion of the program, a national exam is required as the final step to earn the RDN credential.
While state interpretations of statue may vary, it is ACEND's considered opinion that the program meets the education requirements for dietetics licensure and certification in all states. However, completing an ACEND-accredited academic program alone does not qualify an individual for licensure or certification as a dietitian in any state. Individuals should review their state's licensing statues and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice and examinations, needed to obtain a dietetics license. More information about state licensure and certification can be found at this link: State licensure.
Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) will require a minimum of a master's degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). For more information about this requirement, visit CDR's website.
For more information about educational pathways to become a RDN, click here.