The board, which is made up of two dietitians, one nutritionist and two members of the public, meets four times each year. It reviews new and renewal applications, and awards licenses to dietitians. The licensure is similar to that of health professionals like doctors, nurses and physical therapists, Bock said. Applicants for renewal licenses must complete continuing education classes each year. The dietetics program at NMSU, which Bock directs, provides students with the academic courses required by the American Dietetics Association.
Students then take part in a supervised practice program.
To become a registered dietitian, they must pass a national exam. The process usually takes five to six years to complete.