Nutrition Internships: The Pressure to be RD

The program to become a Registered Dietitian (RD) in the United States is very rigorous and in some ways limited. The entire nation has only one "matching" program that places you in a dietetic internship based off of your preference and qualifications. Some people are not even matched to an internship and are left to apply again the following year. Although the program for the dietetic internships is extensive and very practical, I do think that there are some serious limitations on students wanting to become a RD. First of all, there is only one method in which to become a Registered dietitian. A student must complete a bachelor's degree in Nutrition from an accredited CADE school, then apply and do an internship after they graduate that serves as a practicum. I don't like that there is only one way by which to become a RD because the internships are not incorporated into the bachelor's degree and require extra schooling after one has graduated. The internships are like 8 to 5 jobs, yet most do not pay. I also think the program is limited because the ability to become a RD is controlled almost completely by CADE requirements and by the American Dietetic Association. I know there are many positive aspects to having it under one organization and for having the internship occur after one finishes their bachelor's degree, however I think that at there should be one or two alternative routes available for those seeking to become Registered Dietitians.