Abstract
This project determined the differences in perceived benefits of master's degrees among those who obtained their degree before or concurrently with becoming a registered dietitian (RD) and those who returned for their master's degree after obtaining their RD credential. Over 2000 individuals were contacted via an initial email; and 336 participant data were analyzed, 30.0% (n = 553) of the RDs completed the survey. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and the Fisher exact test were used to explain the relationships between demographic/education characteristics and perceived benefits of master's degrees. Key findings were similar between the groups in their ability to perform job functions. Respondents who had completed a master's degree after the RD credential identified more benefits than those obtaining master's degrees either before obtaining an RD or during a graduate dietetic internship or coordinated program. Master's degrees tailored to those who already obtained the RD credential provide the greatest benefit. More study is needed.