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• Dietetic Personal Statement Examples

Our dietetics personal statement examples will give you inspiration and the edge you need to stand out in your university application and secure your spot in the programme. These examples will provide good guidance for applicants who are applying for Dietetic and Nutrition courses at UK universities . 

Read dietetic personal statements below. 

Dietetic Personal Statement

Unlocking the potential of a well-balanced diet to transform lives and promote healthier lifestyles – is my passion and my calling as a prospective dietitian. The importance of a well-balanced diet to a healthy lifestyle is something that I have always been aware of and I would like to help others achieve this by changing their dietary habits. With obesity rates on the rise, I believe that the role of dietitians will become increasingly important in addressing society’s health issues. 

My studies at Schoolcraft College in Subjects Allied to Healthcare have provided me with a solid foundation in chemistry and biology and have also given me a taste of the demands of university-level education. Additionally, I have attended various short courses on nutrition and dietetics, such as Kensington and Chelsea College’s course on Nutrition, Healthy Eating and Weight Management, which was particularly impactful as it was led by Antia Tull, whose books on nutrition have greatly influenced my understanding of the subject.

My previous work experience as a nanny has also played a significant role in my decision to pursue a career in dietetics. The close relationship that I formed with the children in my care and the role that food plays in their development made me realize the impact that a good-quality diet can have on a child’s long-term development and day-to-day behaviour. I have made it a personal mission to educate myself on nutrition and dietetics while working as a nanny to ensure that the children in my care are receiving the best possible start in life.

Furthermore, my experience as a sales assistant has taught me how to work well under pressure and as part of a team, both of which are important skills for healthcare professionals. My internship experience at Dr Andrew’s Nutrition further solidified my desire to pursue a career in dietetics. During my 6-month internship, I was able to gain hands-on experience in the field and learn about the various aspects of dietetics. It was a valuable opportunity that gave me a deeper understanding of the profession and the impact that dietitians can have on people’s lives.

My ultimate goal is to work as a pediatric dietitian, where I can combine my love of child care with my enthusiasm for nutrition and make a positive impact in the lives of children. I am excited about the possibility of achieving this goal through further education and training in the field of dietetics.

Dietetic Personal Statement Example

I am excited to apply for the dietetic course because of my long-standing interest in nutrition and my desire to work in the healthcare industry. My passion for chemistry, food science, and understanding how nutrition impacts the human body led me to pursue this career path. My biology A-level provided a foundation for my interest in the variations of dietary needs throughout the life cycle. Additionally, a week of shadowing a dietitian solidified my decision to pursue this career and exposed me to the various challenges and rewards of nutrition.

I believe that my A-level subjects in biology and chemistry will be beneficial as the programme is divided into academic and clinical components. The first year of the program focuses heavily on biochemistry, and my background in these subjects will aid in my understanding. Additionally, my math skills will be useful as the programme includes many calculations for determining specific dietary needs. While some aspects of the programme, such as behavioural sciences and professional studies, will be new to me, my work experience has given me a glimpse into these skills in practice.

Upon graduation, my goal is to work as a dietitian for the National Health Service in the UK. I consider myself to be organised, committed, and friendly, all traits that will serve me well in the field of dietetics. I am diligent in completing assignments on time and to a high standard, and I enjoy planning my days to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. My drive to succeed is exemplified by my decision to attend a college with a more rigorous curriculum despite the added commute. Additionally, I am comfortable interacting with others in unfamiliar situations, an important skill in a career that relies heavily on communication.

In my spare time, I enjoy participating in a variety of activities that further develop my skills. I volunteer as a young guide leader for my local group, working towards a leadership qualification that will help me develop teamwork and leadership skills. Additionally, I am a member of a local gym to improve my fitness and build self-confidence, and I work part-time at a retail store, honing my customer service skills. Furthermore, I take part in my college’s enrichment programme, including IT and Queen’s Scout Award, which have provided me with qualifications in text production and developed my teamwork and leadership skills. I am eager to begin the dietetic course and contribute to the field through my dedication and passion for the subject.

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Nutrition and Dietetics, M.S.

• Learning Outcomes
• Requirements
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Saint Louis University’s nutrition and dietetics graduate program prepares students to be competent, compassionate dietetic professionals.  SLU's nutrition and dietetics department offers a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics that can be customized to your interest with the following options:

Culinary Entrepreneurship Concentration

• Medical Nutrition Concentration
• Nutrition and Physical Performance Concentration
• Combined MS-Dietetic Internship Program (MS-DI) (Culinary Entrepreneurship, Nutrition Therapy, Nutrition and Physical Performance and Pediatric Nutrition Concentrations)
• Dual Degree: M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics and Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

Dietetic Internship (DI)

Additionally, the department offers a dietetic internship program leading to the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics in four concentrations:

• Culinary Entrepreneurship
• Medical Nutrition Therapy
• Medical Pediatric Nutrition
• Nutrition and Physical Performance

Upon completion of the internship, students will receive their master’s degree and are eligible to sit for the national registration exam. The dietetic internship is currently granted accreditation status by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Beginning at the end of June, with two online courses, the internship program provides a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised practice rotations in a variety of health care facilities in St. Louis and surrounding areas. There are approximately 15 rotations in the SLU dietetic internship. Each rotation lasts one to three weeks and focuses on an aspect of dietetics practice related to a specific disease/condition, life-cycle stage or population group. 

SLU’s dietetic internship accepts 34 interns annually. Applicants may apply to one or all internship concentration areas. Applicants should submit only one DICAS application regardless of whether they are applying to one or all concentrations, but a separate personal statement letter for each concentration is required.

Learn More About SLU's Dietetic Internship Program

How to Become a Registered Dietitian (PDF)  

Program Philosophy

SLU's graduate nutrition program promotes self-directed learning, self-assessment for professional advancement, and collaborative opportunities to prepare graduates for emerging jobs in the field. The mission of SLU's MS-DI program is to prepare our graduates to assume entry-level positions as RDNs in the provision of evidence-based care with diverse patient populations.

The mission of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics is to "thrive in a community that promotes and seeks truth about food and nutrition. Woven into the fabric of this community are multifaceted educational pursuits to promote a food-centered culture for health and wellness, scholarly exploration and an appreciation of the global and ecological community in which we exist." As a department, we strive to lead with our  core values  of food-first nutrition, evidence-based science, creativity and innovation, hospitable culture, interdisciplinary and community collaboration, and food and environmental justice.

Curriculum Overview

SLU's graduate nutrition and dietetics curriculum builds upon a strong foundation in the sciences and includes unique aspects such as the investigation of nutrition topics in the media, the study of ethnic meal patterns and hands-on experience. Courses include classroom, lab and community experiences.

Students can pursue either full-time or part-time study in any of the master's concentrations. However, the MS-DI program does not allow for part-time study.

Concentration in Medical Nutrition

The medical nutrition concentration is designed to apply specific nutrition services to treat illness, injury or condition. The program is designed for professionals who have a baccalaureate degree in nutrition/dietetics or a related area of study. Coursework focuses on the areas of education, administration and counseling as those areas apply to nutrition care.

Concentration in Nutrition and Physical Performance

The nutrition and physical performance concentration educates students in a multidisciplinary approach to prevention, utilizing nutrition and exercise intervention strategies for lifestyle change and using nutrition for improving exercise performance. The program is designed for professionals who have a baccalaureate degree in nutrition/dietetics or a related area of study. Coursework focuses on nutrition, health promotion, prevention, physiology and cardiovascular fitness. Graduates are encouraged to seek the ACSM health fitness instructor certification.

Concentration in Culinary Entrepreneurship

The culinary entrepreneurship concentration prepares students to successfully merge culinary nutrition skills with traditional business skills to develop innovative and successful entrepreneurial programs and services. The program is designed for students who have either an associate degree in culinary arts or a baccalaureate degree in nutrition/dietetics or significant experience in foodservice. Coursework focuses on nutrition, sustainable food systems, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing and organizational management.

Dual Degree with the Master of Public Health

The primary goal of this dual-degree program is to prepare nutrition specialists to work in many types of public health and voluntary agencies, as well as medical care and educational settings. Graduates specialize in public health and dietetics and are able to design, organize, conduct and evaluate nutrition intervention programs in the public health sector. Interested applicants must apply separately to both the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics and the College for Public Health and Social Justice .

Clinical and Research Opportunities

SLU's graduate nutrition, medical nutrition and nutrition and physical performance concentrations are thesis degree programs where students are required to dedicate multiple semesters to focus on research, data collection, data analysis and a written thesis. The graduate nutrition culinary entrepreneurship concentration is a non-thesis, capstone program.

Graduates with the RD/RDN credential can work as a clinical dietitian, sports dietitian, research dietitian and community dietitian. Graduates can also work as a chef/certified culinarian, food technologist, food journalist, nutrition educator/counselor, food and nutrition entrepreneur, food service manager, food scientist and much more.

Admission Requirements

Most students admitted to the nutrition and dietetics graduate program possess above-average GPA, sufficient GRE scores (optional at this time), and sufficient TOEFL scores (for international applicants).

Application Requirements M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics

• Application form and fee
• Transcript(s): All international students who did not attend school within the United States must have their transcripts evaluated by either the Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or World Education Services (WES).
• Three letters of recommendation: Two letters should be from college professors/instructors and one should be from a work supervisor. When completing the application form, students must include the name and email address for each reference. This will initiate an email message requesting online completion of a reference form.
• GRE Scores (optional)
• Professional goal statement: A personal statement including professional interests, concentration intended to study, goals, personal attributes, etc.

Dietetic Internship

• Three letters of recommendation. Two should be from college professors/instructors, and one should be from a work supervisor. Please choose professors/supervisors who can adequately assess your abilities to perform in a dietetic internship and as a registered dietitian. When completing the application form, you must include the name and email address for each reference. This will initiate an email message requesting online completion of a reference form. Students submitting more than one application will need to use the same individuals as references for each application.
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended should be sent to: DICAS - Transcript Dept., PO Box 9118, Watertown, MA 02472. They will be scanned and included in your online application.
• A personal statement including professional interests, goals, personal attributes, etc. qualifying you as a good candidate for the SLU dietetic internship, as well as which concentration(s) you wish to study. A separate personal statement is required for each concentration and should be uploaded to the supplemental materials section in the DICAS application. DICAS will require the personal statement to be 1,000 words or less.

Applicants must also register online for computer matching with  D&D Digital  and select dietetic internship priority choices by 11:59 p.m. on the deadline dates posted online. There is a $50 computer matching fee. 

Please use the following D&D Digital codes when applying:

• Medical/Nutrition Therapy: 170
• Medical/Pediatric: 169
• Nutrition and Physical Performance: 168
• Culinary Entrepreneurship: 750

There is no application fee for the SLU dietetic internship program.

A phone interview may be conducted by one or more members of the selection committee. The interview will last 20 to 30 minutes and will cover the following topic areas:

• The different roles in dietetics and the areas of practice
• Your interest in becoming a dietitian and your career goals
• Your expectations of this internship
• The attributes that make you a strong candidate for our program

Additional information regarding the phone interview process will be provided to applicants upon receipt of the application.

The applications to the dietetic internship and graduate program are separate processes. The application for the graduate program should be initiated after the applicant has been accepted into the internship. There is a $40 graduate program application fee. The  graduate program application  can be completed online.

Applicant matching results will be posted on  D&D Digital  on appointment day. This is the only source of notification for applicants. Each applicant will receive either one match or no match after login. All applicants who receive one match will find the matched DI program name and contact information to accept the appointment. Matched applicants must contact the DI program on notification or appointment day to confirm acceptance of the match. No arrangements should be made with any other DI programs.

Matched applicants to the SLU dietetic internship must contact the Dietetic Internship Director Rabia Rahman by email at  [email protected]  to confirm acceptance of the match. After this time, the program is under no obligation to hold the opening for the matched applicant.

Final transcripts, DPD verification and the dietetic internship admission fee must be submitted prior to beginning the internship program.

Requirements for International Students

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students. International students must also meet the following additional requirements:

• Demonstrate  English Language Proficiency
• Financial documents are required to complete an application for admission and be reviewed for admission and merit scholarships. 
• A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the student's time at Saint Louis University
• A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of the student's study at the University
• Courses taken and/or lectures attended
• Practical laboratory work
• The maximum and minimum grades attainable
• The grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations
• Any honors or degrees received.

WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

Application and Assistantship Deadlines

U.S. students should apply for the fall semester by July 1 and for the spring semester by Nov. 1. International students should apply for the fall semester by May 1 and for the spring semester by Oct.1.

Students should apply for the summer program by April 1.

Students who want to be considered for assistantships should apply by March 31.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by a committee of nutrition and dietetic department faculty members.

Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:

Net Price Calculator

Information on Tuition and Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

Information on Summer Tuition

Program-Specific Additional Costs

More Information on Tuition and Fees  

Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1. 

For more information, visit the student financial services office online at https://www.slu.edu/financial-aid/index.php .

Accreditation

Saint Louis University's MS-DI program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), the accrediting agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190 Chicago, Illinois 60606-6995 312-899-0040 ext. 5400 https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend

Program outcome data is available upon request. Please contact Program Director Rabia Rahman at  [email protected] .

• Graduates will be able to demonstrate nutrition-related, client-centered communication skills.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate compassion in the nutritional care of clients.
• Graduates will be able to evidence counseling methods to facilitate changes in nutrition-related behaviors.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate professional attributes of a nutrition and dietetics professional in a variety of settings.
• Graduates will be able to evaluate emerging research for application in nutrition and dietetics practice.

Students in Saint Louis University's nutrition and dietetics graduate program take the following courses. 

Continuation Standards

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.

Culinary Entrepreneurship Concentration with Dietetic Internship

Nutrition therapy concentration, nutrition therapy concentration with dietetic internship, nutrition and physical performance concentration, nutrition and physical performance concentration with dietetic internship, medical pediatric nutrition concentration with dietetic internship.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester. Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Apply for Admission

Contact Doisy College of Health Sciences: Julie Miller Recruitment Specialist 314-977-2570 [email protected]

The Future RD

College advice | di help | rd stories, how to write the best personal statement for a dietetic internship.

Happy Tuesday y’all! Today’s post comes as many of you are completing your final edits on your dietetic internship applications and personal statements. (Keep on keeping on y’all; you’re doing fantastic!) Today’s post is not on what you should cover in your personal statement, like many other creators in the field have done an amazing job sharing through blog posts or filmed videos. Instead, this article discusses one specific point: how to personalize your personal statement for a dietetic internship.

In my opinion, a key way to set yourself apart is by showing that you fit perfectly with the internship. This is what today’s post explains in three simple steps.

1. Do Your Research on Dietetic Internships

In order to personalize your personal statement for a dietetic internship, you have to know what it’s about. Just like applying for a job, it’s important to research the school and its program. Think about:

• What are the program’s values?
• Where will you earn rotation hours?
• What does the internship emphasize through its concentration?
• Does the program ask you to move to another area or will you work near the school the whole time?
• And how competitive is the program?

Answering questions like these will help you evaluate whether you’re interested in applying before you put all your time and effort into it! Here are a couple of great places to look for information.

School website

The school’s website will probably be the best source of easily accessible information on an internship. A dietetic internship’s website will explain at the very least, what you need to apply, where the program is located, what the program timeline is, and what the concentration is in. Sometimes a website will also include a dietetic intern handbook, possible rotation sites, and intern-created content such as videos, example assignments, or testimonies.

People connected to the school

If the school’s website doesn’t explain everything you’re looking for, consider talking to people connected to the dietetic internship! This could be the program director or former interns, for example. Open houses, both in-person and online, are also a fantastic way to get a more in-depth understanding of an internship. If you aren’t able to attend an in-person meeting or would like to show some initiative, consider reaching out via email to someone. They can help answer questions you couldn’t find answers to anywhere else.

Sometimes, either the dietetic internship or interns will post YouTube videos related to the program. Although these are less common, it never hurts to do a quick search, as the ones that I’ve found are always highly informative.

Last but not least, consider searching my site for dietetic internships ! I write articles that do all the legwork for you and summarize everything I can find into one amazing article. Although the number of internships I’ve researched is low now, I’m always adding more to the collection. If there is one that you’d like to see on the site, leave a comment on this post and I’ll let you know!

2. Consider What You Appreciate

So you’ve done your research and know all you can about the dietetic internships you’ve chosen. The next step is to review everything you’ve learned and consider what is meaningful to you. If you’re set on working in a certain setting or specialization, maybe it’s that the program has a concentration in that. Maybe the program has an elective rotation that would empower you to craft your own journey. Maybe the program emphasizes resumes when looking at applications and yours looks terrific! Your situation and connection to each school will be unique to you and only you can decide what you like.

I want to add that while price or location might be something that’s important to you, you should be able to bring to light other reasons that you appreciate a dietetic internship. These will enable you to connect more powerfully with the internship.

3. Connect the Dots

Now that you know the programs and what you value in them, it’s time to apply that to each personal statement for a dietetic internship. As you write, ask yourself: “What can I reveal about myself that shows I am an incredible pick for this internship?”

When I applied to dietetic internships, my top pick was Montana State University (MSU) (I wrote about their dietetic internship , which led me to apply and eventually be accepted!)

Here’s a personal example from my statement that I tailored to MSU:

After completing my undergraduate degree, I’ll complete the dietetic internship at MSU, become a registered dietitian, and earn a master’s in nutrition science. Although my undergraduate degree and the internship will provide a great foundation for my career, I look forward to the deeper study that will come through the graduate degree in topics like obesity and food innovation and entrepreneurship.

I like that I tied what I had learned from my sources into my future plans. Because I knew I would be applying to the MS/DI program (meaning I would complete the dietetic internship with a master’s degree), I researched the degree and incorporated some of the topics here in this section and throughout my personal statement.

Some advice you might have heard elsewhere about writing your personal statement is sharing a weakness of yours. Some internships even require it as part of your essay! Here’s how I approached that for MSU:

One weakness in my application is that I don’t have much experience with sustainable food systems. But I’m applying to MSU because I believe that understanding this area of nutrition will be vital in the future. The world’s resources are dwindling, and consumers are starting to examine their foods’ impact on the environment. As a dietitian, I’ll need to identify sustainable foods, so I can share with clients in my future private practice. Even before I start my private practice, I’d personally appreciate knowing more about this area so I can apply what I’ve learned to my life.

It’s not necessarily a bad thing to not know much about your program’s concentration. MSU’s dietetic internship has a concentration in Sustainable Food Systems, which means learning about how to evolve the way food is produced, distributed, and consumed to support the health of people and the planet. Although people might choose a dietetic internship for its concentration because they want to go into it, I had no prior experience with this concentration. Instead, I chose it because it was so unique. (Also notice how I shared why this part of the program was important to me and my future.)

To personalize your personal statement for dietetic internships, you need to remember these three things:

• Do your research
• Decide what matters
• Connect the dots

I hope this article left you feeling more empowered to push through the last of your applications. Good luck to you all! Be sure to celebrate all the amazing work you’ve put into not just your application but improving yourself.

Are you applying to dietetic internships? What sources have you used?

Until next time, Emmalee

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Dietics Personal Statements

Submitted by Georgia

Dietetics combines my interests in biology, chemistry, food, and help...

Dietics Personal Statement Advice

A Dietetics personal statement is an essential part of your university application process and is probably the most important part in your UCAS application as well. Your Dietetics personal statement is a chance for you to convince your course leaders and the university admissions officer that you would be well-suited to studying the course at university and is also a chance for you to effectively geek out on your favourite subject. First things first for anyone looking to write a Dietetics personal statement, is to look at some previous Dietetics personal statement examples. These will give you an insight into the kinds of things that universities are looking for and the sort of things that you should be at great pains to include. You don’t need to be going overboard, especially when it comes to length, just make sure that everything you write is relevant and factual. Make sure you include everything that you have done that is related to Dietetics. This could be anything from work experience in the sector, any major life experiences related to Dietetics and your passion for the subject. Don't be afraid to mention a few things about yourself as well though! If you enjoy films, TV shows, rugby or anything else, be sure to mention them and if you can somehow link them back to Dietetics then that’s even better!

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Dietetics Program

The Master of Science/Didactic Program in Dietetics (MS/DPD) is an onsite, 4+1 graduate program which enables students to earn 2 degrees, a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in 5 years . This intensive program is targeted toward high achieving, undergraduate students who are seeking a graduate path to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). A Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) refers to an academic program designed to meet the knowledge requirements for dietetics practice. The curriculum provides coursework including nutrition through the life cycle, food science, professionalism, food systems, medical nutrition therapy, obesity and weight management, cultural competence, communication and counseling, the research process, and foodservices, culminating in the concept of the clinical application of the curriculum. 

After completing all pre-requisite courses, students apply for the program the spring semester of their third year. Once accepted into the program, students participate in a lockstep, face-to-face, full-time schedule for 2 years (4 semesters) . At the end of the 1st year of the two-year program, and upon completion of program and graduation requirements, a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition will be awarded. At the end of the 2nd year and upon completion of all program and graduation requirements, a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Didactic verification statement will be awarded. The program will help students prepare to apply for an accredited Dietetic Internship the spring of the 2nd year. SUU's Dietetic program does not offer a Dietetic Internship. Please visit eatrightpro.org for internship options, and navigate to Program Type, and select Dietetic Internships.

Dietetics Program Information

A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist is a Food and Nutrition expert who has met academic and professional requirements including:

• Earned a master’s degree with course work approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Accreditation council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).  Coursework typically includes food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems management, business, economics, computer science, sociology, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
• Completed a 1000 hour accredited, supervised practice program, a dietetic internship (DI), at a health care facility, community agency and foodservice corporation.*
• Passed a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)**
• Completes continuing professional education requirement to maintain registration on an ongoing basis.

* Dietetic Internships require students to participate in a computer matching process, Dietetic Inclusive Centralized Application Services (DICAS). This web-based application service allows students to apply to multiple programs by completing a single online application. For more information, please visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Website .

** In most states, graduates also must obtain licensure or certification to practice. For more information about state licensure requirements, please visit the Commission on Dietetic Registration Website . SUU MS Dietetic program meets the coursework requirement for the national registration exam required for state licensure or certification.

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Qualification of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

To graduate from the Dietetics program and receive a DPD verification statement, all program courses must be completed with a B- or higher, all Core Knowledge for the RDN (KRDN) assessments must be completed with a 75% or higher, all university bachelor's degree and master’s degree requirements met, and all students must demonstrate professional and ethical behavior and academic integrity.

A Didactic verification statement will be issued upon program graduation.

The MS Dietetic Program is an on-site (no distance learning) program. The program does not award credit for prior learning experiences.

SUU’s Master of Nutrition and Dietetics program is an accelerated 4+1 graduate program. Application for this program is competitive and based on review of all application materials. To be eligible for admission, students must have:

• Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on all “Prerequisite Courses” with no course grade less than a C (C- is not accepted).
• Completed all pre-requisite courses ( Please review Dietetics Program Curriculum Map Years 1-3 )
• Completed 5 dietetic related experiences, paid or volunteer, totaling 50 hours.  Dietetic Program Portfolio Experience Options .

Maximum enrollment in the Dietetic Program is 15 students per year , so completion of all admission requirements will not guarantee acceptance into the program.

Application Process:

Applications to the Dietetic Program are accepted once a year. The application deadline is 4 pm on the 2nd Friday in January . Each individual's application will not be reviewed until all application materials have been received. All applications will be reviewed, and admission determined by the selection committee. Provisional admission is made, and notifications are sent by email by March 1st. Students will relay by March 15th to the offer of admission, via the application portal. This allows for timely student registration for upcoming fall courses. To be officially admitted to the dietetics program, all those receiving provisional admission must successfully complete prerequisite courses (maximum 18 credits) taken during spring/summer semester. If these courses are taken at an institution other than SUU, students must submit official copies of their transcripts containing their spring semester grades. The committee will review spring/summer transcripts and make final admission decisions. Please note a GRE is not required.

Southern Utah University’s mission is to provide an exceptional educational experience. As a campus focused on supporting a growing diverse student body, we encourage applications from underrepresented students, including but not limited to racially minoritized, first-generation, LGBTQ+, non-traditional, and students with military experience, and individuals with a demonstrated commitment to advancing health equity among marginalized communities. We utilize a holistic application process and do not discriminate based on the applicants' protected classes or other attributes, including size, gender expression and others.

All the components of the application should be submitted by 4 pm, on the 2nd Friday in January:

Online Application: Apply Now

Application Instructions:

• Select: Graduate Programs, Apply Now
• Complete the Personal Information and Citizenship Sections
• Application Selection: Select Masters, Doctorate or Postgraduate Program
• Student Type: New Postgraduate
• How do you want to take classes: On Campus Only
• Select Your Program of Interest: Master of Science- Nutrition and Dietetics
• Partner Organization: blank option (blue area)

In the application you will provide the following information:

• Describe your career aspirations - up to 250 words
• Explain your personal characteristics, skills, values, or experiences that will contribute to the program and dietetic profession - up to 500 words
• Information about 5 dietetic related experiences, paid or volunteer, totaling 50 hours
• Name and email of an employer or volunteer supervisor providing you a recommendation for the program (A recommendation form will be emailed to them, letters will not be accepted. The application portal will indicate when it has been completed)
• Confirmation that you have met with your academic advisor to confirm all prerequisites have been met. 
• Confirmation that you have read/understand all the information about the program on the website, including the policies and procedures. 
• Confirmation that you have read the Dietetic Program Technical Standards  

Dietetic Program Year 1 - All credits, including graduate credits , are at the undergraduate rate. To see estimated costs, and other Financial Aid information visit SUU's Financial Aid FAQ page under the section “What does college cost”.

• Fall: ~$600
• Spring: ~$200

Additional Program Costs:

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Student Membership - ~$60/year Semester Fall
• Lab Coat (new, long) - ~$50 Semester Spring

Dietetic Program Year 2 – Graduate Tuition MSDPD  

Textbooks: 

• Spring: None

• 1 year Subscription to Nutrition Care Manual - Semester Fall ~$80
• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Student Membership - Semester Fall ~$60
• Dietetic Internship Application Fees ~$250 Semester Spring
• Registration Exam Study Guide and Practice Tests ~$400 Semester Spring

The program is taught during fall and spring semesters for two consecutive years. Classes in the program will be face-to-face, lockstep-taken in the assigned semester. All semesters have a full-time course load. Some summer Capstone Project work will be required between year-1 and year-2. For a complete academic calendar, please visit the SUU Academics Website .

Dietetics Program Curriculum Map

Fall semester (16 credits).

• NFS 1020 Nutrition Foundations (3 credits)
• BIOL 1610/15 Gen Biology & Lab (4 credits)
• PSY 1010 Gen Psychology (Social Science GE) (3 credits)
• *GE- ENGL 1010 (3 credits)
• *GE American Institutions (3 credits)
• (Math 1010 (4 credits) may be needed if Math ACT Score is less than 23)

Spring Semester (15 Credits)

• NFS 1000 Intro to Dietetics (1 credit)
• NFS 2020 Nutrition in the Life Cycle (3 credits)
• BIOL 1620/25 Gen Biology II & Lab (4 credits)
• Math 1040 Statistical Inference (Math GE) (4 credits)
• Soc 1010 Intro Sociology (Social Science GE) (3 credits)
• NFS 2140 Nutrition Infant & Child (3 credits)
• Biol 2320/25 Human Anatomy & Lab (4 credits)
• CHEM 1110/15 Elem Chemistry & Lab (4 credits)
• *GE - Fine Arts (3 credits)
• KIN 2010 Medical Terminology (2 credits)

Spring Semester (17 Credits)

• BIOL 2420/25 Human Physiology & Lab (4 credits)
• NFS 2480 Intuitive Eating (3 credits)
• CHEM 1120/25 Elem Organic Bio-Chem/Lab (6 credits)
• *GE- ENGL 2010 (3 credits)
• *GE- INFO 1010 (1 credit)

(Can currently be enrolled in prerequisite courses when applying)

• NFS 3040 Nutrition and Assessment (3 credits)
• BIOL 2060/65 Microbiology & Lab (4 credits)

Choose 1 of the following:

• PHIL 1250 Critical Thinking (Humanities GE) (3 credits)
• COMM 1270 Critical Thinking & Msg Analysis (Humanities GE) (3 credits)
• SOC 3450 Applied Research Methods (3 credits)
• KIN 4020 Research Methods in Exercise Science (3 credits)
• FLHD 3600 Research in FLHD (Family Life & Human Development) (3 credits)

Upper Division Elective (3 credits)

Application to the Dietetic Program

• NFS 3020 Sports Nutrition (3 credits)
• BIOL 3060/65 Genetics & Lab (4 credits)
• KIN 3070/75 Exercise Physiology/Lab (4 credits)
• PSY 3650 Health Psych (3 credits)
• PSY 4330 Theories of Learning (3 credits)
• HSS 1120 Intro to Diversity (3 credits)
• ANTH 1020 Cultural Anthropology (3 credits)

Fall Semester (17 credits) (13 + 4 Graduate Credits)

Start of the Dietetic Program and Graduate Courses

(Courses taken in order as listed)

(Students pay undergraduate tuition for graduate credits in this year)

• NFS 4000 Dietetic Professionalism I (1 credit)
• KIN 4080 Obesity & Weight Management (3 credits)
• NFS 4100/4105 Exploring Culture in Nutrition/Lab (3 credits)
• NFS 4481 Community Nutrition: Dietetics (3 credits)
• NFS 6040 Nutrition Counseling: Dietetics (3 credits)
• NFS 6991 Capstone Project I (1 credit)
• Electives (3 credits)

Spring Semester (15 credits) (10 + 5 Graduate Credits)

• NFS 4240 Food Sustainability Seminar (1 credit)
• NFS 4700 Eating Disorders Nutrition Therapy (2 credits)
• NFS 4991 Senior Seminar: Dietetics (1 credit)
• NFs 6200/05 Food Science & Lab (4 credits)
• NFS 6992 Capstone Project II (1 credit)
• UD Electives (3 credits)
• Elective (3 credits)

(Reserve summer for Capstone Project work)

Fall Semester (11 credits)

Dietetic Graduate Program

• NFS 6000 Dietetic Professionalism II (1 credit)
• NFS 6020 Nutritional Biochemistry: Macronutrients (3 credits)
• NFS 6250 Foodservice (2 credits)
• NFS 6050 Medical Nutrition Therapy I (3 credits)
• NFS 6993 Capstone Project III (1 credit)
• NFS 6994 Capstone Project IV (1 Credit)

Spring Semester (10 credits)

• NFS 6030 Nutritional Biochemistry: Micronutrients (3 Credits)
• NFS 6300 Management in Dietetics (3 credits)
• NFS 6060 Medical Nutrition Therapy II (3 credits)
• NFS 6995 Capstone Project V (1 Credit)

Application to Dietetic Internships

Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Southern Utah University’s Master of Science/Didactic in Dietetics program is to prepare graduates to pass the qualifying exam and become dynamic Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Experiential curriculum promotes critical thinking, develops interprofessional communication skills, solidifies understanding of evidence-based nutrition practices, and prepares dynamic professionals that promote the health and well-being of diverse populations.

Program outcome data is available upon request by contacting the Program Director at [email protected] .

Program Guide

Goal 1: Program graduates will utilize critical thinking skills and evidence-based nutrition knowledge in a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.

• Objective 1.1: At least 80% of students complete program requirements within 3 years (150% of planned program length)
• Objective 1.2: At least 50% of program graduates apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
• Objective 1.3: Of program graduates who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 65% percent admitted within 12 months of graduation.
• Objective 1.4: The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
• Objective 1.5: At least 80% of responding graduates will indicate “prepared”** or higher that the program provided them with adequate evidence-based nutrition knowledge for a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.
• Objective 1.6: At least 80% of responding graduates will indicate “prepared” or higher that the program aided in the development of critical thinking skills for a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.
• Objective 1.7: At least 80% of responding graduates’ internship directors or employers will indicate “prepared” or higher on graduates’ overall evidence-based nutrition knowledge.
• Objective 1.8: At least 80% of responding graduates’ internship directors or employers will indicate “prepared” or higher on graduates’ overall critical thinking skills.

Goal 2: Program graduates will demonstrate professionalism and proficient communication skills in a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.

• Objective 2.1: At least 80% of responding graduates will indicate “prepared” or higher that the program aided in the development of professionalism skills for a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.
• Objective 2.2: At least 80% of responding graduates will indicate “prepared” or higher that the program aided in the development of communication skills for a dietetic internship or professional practice setting.
• Objective 2.3: At least 80% of responding graduates’ employers or internship directors will indicate “prepared” or higher on graduates’ overall professionalism skills.
• Objective 2.4: At least 80% of responding graduates’ employers or internship directors will indicate “prepared” or higher on graduates’ overall communication skills.

Student Performance Monitoring

Policy: Student performance will be monitored throughout each semester, students will receive regular report of their performance, and students not meeting expectations will be provided with student support resources.

Procedure: Early detection of concerning academic performance is assured as faculty must have grading done in a timely manner to provide students with a midterm grade per the university’s policy. Faculty will also reach out to students verbally or in writing, expressing concerns about academic performance. The faculty may also use the university’s Early Alert System to access additional student support and resources.*

At the end of each course, faculty will provide the Program Director a report of student learning for assessment of student progress. The report will include assessment of KRDN completion, if course grade was a B- or higher, and if students demonstrate professional/ethical behavior and academic integrity. This information will be documented on the Dietetic Program Canvas shell.

For more information, visit the Assessment of Student Learning Policy section. 

*Early Alert System: SUU Portal - “Class Lists & Photo Roster” - Semester - Course - Student - "Submit Alert”

Student Remediation and Retention

Policy:  Faculty will make remediation efforts with the students on an individual basis.

Procedure:  If the Early Alert System is utilized, the Early Alert Response Team will reach out to the student within 1-3 business days and assess the needs of the student and connect them with academic, mental, emotional, and/or social support and resources.

The Program Director will review all students’ progress at the end of each semester and make a plan of progress with the student.

For more information visit Program Retention and Remediation Policy section.

Equitable Treatment

Policy:  As a program and university we provide education opportunities that promote understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion. We respect the rights of all individuals regardless of race, religion, national origin, color, sex (gender), age, disability, marital, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, childbirth, veteran, sexual orientation, sexual identity, and/or other legally protected status, unless otherwise required by law. Discrimination based on protective status is prohibited.

SUU’s 2021 State of Equity and Inclusion Report

Students are supported in their needed accommodations through the Disability Resource Center to aid in academic success.

Program Complaint Process

Policy:  Students have an option to file a program complaint.

• If the complaint is related to a course, Students are recommended to first discuss the issue with the instructor.
• If the issue remains unresolved or is a program issue, Students are then recommended to discuss issues with the Program Director and schedule a meeting for formal discussion of the issue.
• Students are recommended to first discuss issues with the Program Director on an informal basis. This should occur within two (2) weeks of the occurrence of the incident or discovery of the problem.
• If unresolved, the complaint should be taken to the Department Chair and then on to the Dean of the College of Health Sciences, if needed. If a resolution has not been yet reached, the student may direct their complaint to the Office of Vice President for Student Affairs.
•  Once the Program Complaint Process at the university level has been exhausted related specifically to program noncompliance with accreditations standards, complaints may be filed directly with ACEND .

Records of program complaints, including the resolution of complaints, are maintained for a period of no less than seven years.

Submission of Program Complaints to ACEND

Once the Program Complaint Process has been exhausted related specifically to program noncompliance with accreditations standards, complaints can be filed directly with ACEND .

Credit for Prior Learning

Policy : The SUU Dietetics Program is an on-site program and does not participate in the Assess Prior Learning program, therefore does not award credit for prior learning experiences.

Assessment of Student Learning

Policy : All KRDN assessments must be completed with a score of 75% or higher.

Procedure : All course grading will be completed in a timely manner resulting in university-required midterm and end of term grades to help students assess learning. At the end of each course, faculty will provide the Program Director a report of student learning for assessment of student progress.

Program Retention and Remediation

Policy : If a student does not complete the KRDN assessment with a 75% or higher, remediation within the semester will occur to assure understanding of knowledge requirements.

Procedure : Remediation could include any of the following: assignment, quiz, or exam resubmission without grade adjustment, written or verbal explanation, or new assessment method. If KRDN assessment is not completed with a score of 75% or higher after remediation, the course will need to be repeated. Any program course not passed with a B- or higher will need to be repeated. Courses can only be repeated twice. Any student needing to repeat a course will meet with the Program Director to review all available resources for Academic Success , ie, the Tutoring Center , the Writing Center , Withdrawal Support from Student Affairs , and the Counseling/Psychological Services . 

First-year program students will also have the benefits of support from assigned second-year graduate student mentors.

Disciplinary/Termination Procedures

Policy : If after two attempts, a student is unable to pass any course with a B- or better, their enrollment in the program will end.

Procedure : Students will be counseled regarding alternative paths to attaining the RDN credential and/or alternative career paths as appropriate.

Violations of ethical behavior or academic integrity will be addressed per the university’s procedures: “Scholastic dishonesty will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent ( SUU Policy 6.33 ). Students are expected to have read and understood the current SUU student conduct code ( SUU Policy 11.2 ) regarding student responsibilities and rights, the intellectual property policy ( SUU Policy 5.52 ), information about procedures, and what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Graduation/Program Completion Requirements

Policy : To graduate from the Dietetics Program, all program courses must be completed with a B- or higher, all KRDN assessments must be completed with a 75% or higher, students must demonstrate professional and ethical behavior and academic integrity, and all master’s degree requirements are met.

Procedure : A bachelor’s degree will be awarded after the first year of the program if all program courses are completed with a B- or higher, all KRDN assessments completed with a 75% or higher, and all bachelor’s degree and master's degree requirements must be met, and all students must demonstrate professional and ethical behavior and academic integrity.

The SUU MS/DPD program is a lock-step program in that all courses are taken as scheduled within the two year program. Retaking of any courses must be completed within 3 years of acceptance into the program.

Verification Statement

Policy :To earn a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) verification statement, all program courses must be completed with a B- or higher, all KRDN assessments completed with a score of 75% or higher, and students must demonstrate professional and ethical behavior and academic integrity.

Procedure : Upon program completion, a verification statement, with a digital signature, is generated and emailed to the student. Additional copies are kept on file by the program director, as required.

Student Identity Verification

Policy : The university’s technology and information systems are secure and are also protected by FERPA protocols .

Procedure : The following methods are used to confirm student identity:

• Students to the SUU system/portal to access Canvas
• Visual recording of student
• ID verification

Program Withdrawal

Policy : A student may choose to withdraw from the program. 

Procedure : To be considered for reapplication, a written statement of withdrawal must be given to the Program Director indicating withdrawal date, reasons for withdrawal and date of reapplication, if any. Students may reapply one time within three years of withdrawal.

To officially withdraw from the university, please visit the Student Outreach and Support Website ; it is recommended that you first contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships .

Program Schedule

Policy : The program is taught face-to-face during Fall and Spring semesters for two consecutive years. 

Procedure : Program Schedule: Curriculum Map . Student vacation/holidays are based on the university’s academic schedule .

Student Information Protection

Data Governance and Protection Policy  

Information Technology Resource Security  

Student File Access

Policy : Under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) , students have certain rights with respect to their education records.

Procedure : Each student will have access to the Dietetics Program Canvas shell. In Canvas, students can view status of KRDN Assessments and leadership, professional, ethical, and academic integrity requirements. Canvas will also provide storage options for RDN exam study guides and portfolio work. Practice RDN exams will also be taken in this Canvas shell.

Student Support Services

Student Affairs Campus Resources and Services

Current Student Resources

Department Directory A-Z Listing

Accreditation Statement

Southern Utah University's Master of Science Didactic Program in Dietetics has been granted candidate status by the Accreditation council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. 

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Application for Admission

Application.

• Why the applicant wants to enter the dietetics profession
• What experiences the applicant has had that helped prepare him/her for a career in dietetics
• The applicant's short- and long-term goals
• The applicant's strengths and weaknesses or areas needing improvement
• Alignment of personal and professional goals with the focus of the internship and the graduate program selected
• Listing of the Auburn university graduate program(s) to which the applicant applied
• Register on the D&D Digital website , pay the computer matching fee, and submit a prioritized list of selected dietetic internships online to D&D Digital before the designated deadline dates (Refer to Dates for the Computer Matching Process for each appointment period). Please note that the code for Distance Rotations requires that students find all of their own rotations and preceptors as well as submit additional information as part of the application.
• Code Number 861 (Distance Rotations)
• Code Number 862 (On Campus Rotations)
• December: Initiate DICAS application (see DICAS website for opening date to upload application)
• February 15: Submit completed application through DICAS
• February 15: Submit prioritized list of selected dietetic internship programs to D&D Digital
• February 15: Submit graduate school application for a summer semester start
• October: Initiate DICAS application (see DICAS website for opening date to upload application).
• November 18: Submit completed application through DICAS and notify program director of intent to participate in pre-select.
• November 18: : Submit graduate school application for a summer semester start
• 2nd Wednesday in December: Submit transcript from fall semester
• December 15-18: Notification of acceptance into pre-select; applicant must contact program director within 72 hours of acceptance to confirm appointment. Note: If not pre-selected, students are able to participate in computer match and list Auburn University as a selected Dietetic Internship.

NOTE: Application to the Graduate School will need to be submitted at the same time as the application for the Dietetic Internship. Candidates must be prepared to forward official transcripts and official GRE or GMAT scores, as required by the graduate program selected. Ranking and acceptance into the Dietetic Internship is dependent on admission into one of the graduate programs aligned with the internship program. Students admitted to the Dietetic Internship MUST be admitted to the Graduate School, Auburn University to access the Dietetic Internship.

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Last Updated: October 24, 2023

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Dietetic Internship Personal Statement Checklist

• Dietetics Programs
• by jennifer.westerkamp

A strong personal statement can help you stand out from the crowd in your dietetic internship application. Take our advice to put your best foot forward!

The personal statement makes everyone nervous.

You aren’t alone. This is one of our most FAQs! “How do I sell myself? How do I brag without sounding like I am bragging? How do I stand out? What do I even write about? Where do I begin?”

Personal statement prompt

DICAS states that you must answer the following questions in your personal statement:

-Why do you want to enter the dietetics profession?

-Discuss experiences that have helped to prepare you for your career.

-What are your short-term and long-term goals?

-What are your strengths and weaknesses or areas needing improvement?

-What other information do you consider important for the selection decision?

Reminder: A maximum of 1,000 words may be entered for the personal statement section on DICAS. Some DI or RD programs may have different character and word limits, so make sure to double-check before submitting.

Why it’s important

The personal statement is arguably the most important part of your application when applying for dietetic internships. DI programs want to get to know you, and why you would be an asset to their program. Personal statements are a place for you to showcase your talents, focus on your strengths, and set yourself apart from the crowd. It can help you get one step closer to landing the dietetic internship or RD program of your dreams! It’s not easy to begin, but making a strong personal statement is a key to success. 

After helping thousands of people write personal statements, we have the recipe you need to help yours stand out.

Sign up for the FREE Dietetic Internships Toolkit to get the Personal Statement Checklist.

Here’s a preview of how to break down the personal statement:

1. Why do you want to enter dietetics? 

• -Do not say you want to help people, this won’t help you to stick out
• -Do not use a super personal story where you could be judged unfairly for it
• -Introduce your niche that you will focus on
• -What you are interested specifically? “Clinical” is not specific enough.
• -How you became interested in this (experiences, personal, etc.)? Talk about that  story
• -How can the program meet that interest? Say this briefly to set the stage for why it is a fit

2. Discuss what has prepared you for a dietetic internship. 

• -Choose a leadership experience. It’s very important to show you were a leader and how
• -Choose an experience in your interest area in dietetics, in the same realm of goals, if possible
• -Choose an experience in any work experience where you had management skills or a lot of responsibility; Use numbers to emphasize the impact you made in that position
• -Use the STAR method to describe your experiences

3. What are your short-term and long-term goals?

• -Short term is 5 years and long term is 15-20 years
• -Look at established RD’s biographies online – your goals should be almost as specific as how they describe their career and accomplishments
• -Include leadership and professional development, including dietetic practice groups, local dietetics associations, etc

4. What are your strengths and weaknesses. 

Strengths :  If you are going to say what you are good at, you need an example to prove it

• -Leadership- an organization’s accomplishments, project outcomes
• -Communication – oral, verbal, written skills (publications, blog, presentations)
• -Time management – part time job, good -GPA, other commitments
• -Where do you have the most impressive experience/accomplishment? What strength did you use to achieve this?
• -Read it to yourself and ask if you are impressed?
• -Avoid listing off qualities without using examples
• -Avoid saying the synonyms of the same types of words (rambling!)

Weaknesses : Have a weakness you are actively improving or improved. Think areas of GROWTH, not LACK.

• -GPA- retake classes? Note: A coach can really help you decide how much or how little to talk about your GPA; Everyone’s story is different. It can honestly make or break your personal statement
• -Spanish- are you proficient, but want to be fluent?
• -Lack of experience- Will you improve this in or before the internship?

5. Why are you applying to this program?

-End your letter with a paragraph on why this program matches your experience and goals.

• -Reason should not be geography
• -Focus on the program’s uniqueness
• -Test: can you say this reason for any other program? If yes, then be more specific.
• -Talk about unique rotations related to your goals.
• -Choose a couple of rotations to highlight
• -What can you do during the elective rotation?

Feeling stuck on your last paragraph?

Don’t fret! In Jenny’s personal statement webinar, she is sharing the strategies our Get Matched Coaching clients use to write a powerful conclusion paragraph for your dietetic internship personal statement. Using these strategies you can be sure you will “wow” the selection committee.

Ready to dive into DICAS? Work with a coach to bring your application to the next level.

Get an expert coach in your corner helping you through every step of this confusing application journey. You’ll get the exact roadmap, personalized advice, application reviews, accountability, and confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian. Learn more about Get Matched Coaching here.

Check out these posts for more advice, tips, and tricks on navigating all things DICAS.

10 Application Mistakes to Avoid Webinar

DI Computer Matching Explanation

How to Write a Resume for the Dietetic Internship

Steps for Applying to a Dietetic Internship Program

Finding Clinical Preceptor for Dietetic Internship

P.S . Are you in a nutrition club on campus? Share the FREE Dietetic Internships Toolkit with your fellow members for application support resources.

Since 2008, we've made it easier to become a dietitian by coaching thousands of future dietitians to get accepted to dietetics programs, pass the RD exam, and become confident dietitians. [email protected]

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Dietetics Personal Statement

Sample Diatetics Personal Statement

The importance of diet for people’s well-being and identity has not been lost on me as I have moved between Poland, the UK and the US in the last seven years, starting as a help in the family catering business in my native Poland and rising to restaurant supervisor in a major UK restaurant. Despite the pressures of my rapidly progressing career and the challenges of adapting to new places, I have made time to strongly develop my practical and scientific knowledge of food and nutrition, gaining respected qualifications in food preparation, cooking and nutrition. From my study and from working in restaurants in Warsaw, Manchester and New York among people of different cultures and backgrounds, I have discovered a gift for promoting healthy eating and for tailoring menus and diets to different people with different dietary demands. This was the catalyst for my decision to study Dietetics at degree level so that I may gain the scientific knowledge and practical experience to become a registered dietitian, promoting healthy living and advising patients to help them achieve a better quality of life.

I pursued my scientific interest in nutrition by studying for an HND in Nutrition at Manchester Metropolitan University. I quickly discovered my gift for rigorous scientific study when I gained a Distinction in my first year. In the second year, I had a chance to put my knowledge to the test, when, as part of a team, I had to devise lesson plans that promoted healthy eating and create healthy menus for school lunches in a Manchester-wide competition. Thanks to our hard work, my team were awarded the runners-up prize, which proved to me that I have a gift for thinking creatively about how to promote healthy living and a knack for tailoring a menu to suit a particular group of people. I had another opportunity in that year to test my ability to promote healthy living among the public when I was given an assignment to create a business plan for a nutrition-related business. My idea of a ‘We Buy You Health’ personal shopping and nutritional consultancy company was praised highly by the examiners who gave me a very high Merit for the assignment.

Earlier, I had pursued my practical interest in food by taking an NVQ Level 2 in Food Preparation and Cooking, which taught me how to adapt not only menus but individual recipes and meals to different people, depending on their cultural, biological or religious needs. This will be of great use when I come to give people practical advice on how to adapt their food choices to meet their dietary requirements.

Outside of the classroom, my demanding job as a sales consultant has taught me how to resolve customers’ problems, discover their needs and exceed their expectations, all skills which will be of use when I come to communicate with patients to discover and meet their dietary needs. Despite the pressures of my job and caring for my daughter, I have tirelessly sought to prepare myself for the academic side of the degree as well by regularly reading subject-relevant books and scientific journals and attending public lectures and seminars.

To prepare myself for the day-to-day reality of hospital work, I have also been shadowing dietitians in the outpatients department at St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, observing how they deal so compassionately with parents and their children suffering diet-related health problems. The experience made me anxious to involve myself in offering advice and support but also anxious for the parents, with whom I could really associate given that I felt anxious myself for my daughter whose iron deficiency I failed to prevent.

This sample Dietetics personal statement will be a good point of reference when writing your individual and unique personal statement.

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Dietetics personal statement example 1.

I am applying for this course because I am very interested in becoming a dietitian. I have been interested in this career for a number of years. I enjoy chemistry and food related subjects and I am interested in working for the health service. As well as this I am intrigued about how the body works and the influencer nutrition has on this. My A-level in biology covers briefly the variations in dietary requirements as the life cycle takes place. I have enjoyed this subject and would like to study it in more depth. I have completed 1 week shadowing the dietitian's at ___________. I enjoyed every minute of it and I particularly enjoyed the dietitian's clinics. The clinic's allowed the dietitian to have one to one contact with the patient. This seems the most effective way to change a patient's behaviour. The majority of patients I came into contact with had some form of diabetes, but I also saw anorexia and obesity. The skills used during these appointments were fascinating. I often saw a cycle of a dietitian who managed to persuade patients who were not thinking about change to change some parts of their diets. These skills are essential in this career and are preliminary taught through the degree and improved in practice. This week was also helpful as it helped me confirm my career choice and therefore my university options.

My A -level subjects are very relevant to this course. The course is split into 2 main areas, academic and clinical work. In the first year the course covers a lot of biochemistry, and I believe my a-levels in biology and chemistry will help me here. The course will also contain numerous calculations especially in working out specific requirements. My mathematics knowledge will help me here. There will be many parts which are new to me and these include behavioural sciences such as psychology and sociology. Modules in professional studies will also be new to me although my work experiences has enabled me to observe some of these skills in practice.

My main career aim upon successful completion of the course is to practise as a dietitian in the UK, for the NHS. I then hope to achieve senior status.

As a person I view myself as organised committed and friendly. I think these are all qualities which will help me in the dietetic world. I am organised because I complete all my college assignments on time, and to a high standard. I like to organise my days in advance so tasks get completed on time, and free time is used effectively. I believe I am committed to my studies. I chose to attend a college with a higher profile than my local college event though this resulted in 90 minutes of travelling per day. I feel I am friendly, and can mix with other people in unfamiliar situations. This is important as communication skills are vital in a dietetic career.

In my spare time I enjoy voluntary work, leisure activities and part time work. I am currently a young Guide leader for my local Guide group. This has enabled me to work towards the Guide Association's leadership qualification. On completion I will, be qualified to be an assistant Guide Leader. The qualification aims at developing skills required in order to run a unit and also develops teamwork and leadership skills. For leisure I am a member of my local gym. This is primarily to improve fitness but it also builds self confidence and I meet new people. I am currently employed at my local Primark store as a till operator. The job has enabled me to develop customer service skills, which will be important in my future career.

As well as these activities I like to take part in my college's enrichment programme. I have participated in IT enrichment and Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. The IT enrichment have provided me with OCR qualification in text production up to level 3. I am continuing with these classes in order to obtain the Diploma in Text Production. I am currently working towards Duke of Edinburgh Gold award, and have completed the expedition and residential aspects of this award. For my residential I took part in an International Guide and Scout camp, where I was a staff member working on the catering team. Both exploration and residential helped me incorporate team work but in different scenarios.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

All course applied for include state registrataion as a dietitian.

Queen Margaret University (College) Edinburgh: 180 Points from at least 2 A-levels, including 2 sciences. (Accepted this offer even though i was predicted AAA)

University Wales Institute Cardiff: 260 Points from 3 A-levels including Biology and Chemistry

Leeds Metropolitan University: CCD: Including chemistry and one other science

Glasgow Caledonian University: Not sure (it was over 3 years ago!)

Surrey University: BBB: include 2 sciences preferably chemistry and biology.

Nottingham University: Rejected after interview for Msc Nutrition with state registration as a dietitian, accepted for Bsc Nutrition. BCC: Including chemistry and one other science.

Not sure if this was my final statement because of the length but the content is what was included, maybe i included it in a more concise way!

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

Wrong profession.

Wed, 11/06/2008 - 12:53

Is this page not for dentists?

Thank you for posting this!

Tue, 19/07/2011 - 11:43

Thank you for posting this! Has been really helpful to read, as not many people seem to want to do Dietetics! Good luck with your application :)

what year did you apply?

Tue, 10/09/2013 - 10:01

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Master of Science/Dietetic Internship

The Frances Stern Nutrition Center Combined MS/DI focuses on Clinical Nutrition and includes: provision of nutrition care to individuals, development of nutrition programs for population groups, management of financial resources, marketing of services and products related to practice, teaching dietitians and professionals/students, conducting research, and nutrition therapy management of food.

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As Program Director for the Master’s component of our combined program, I welcome you in association with our Dietetic Internship Director Kelly Kane to our “one stop shop” for both an MS degree and a Dietetic Internship. Because we value flexibility to meet your needs, the MS curriculum offers an opportunity not only for elective courses in many other schools of Tufts University and across Boston, but also for a “concentration” from other Friedman school nutrition programs if desired. Haewook Han, Director, Master of Science, Dietetic Internship

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide an environment in which dietetic interns will acquire the knowledge, competencies, skills, and professionalism needed to be future leaders in the diverse field of dietetics. Our graduates will be competent entry-level registered dietitians with a strong scientific foundation in nutrition therapy, coupled with hands-on experience in relevant areas of dietetic practice. We strive to promote in our students a strong commitment to citizenship, collaboration, and ethical standards. Dedication to the highest level of patient and community service forms the foundation for all we do.

Our students also benefit from the expertise of a number of other highly qualified registered dietitians who supervise affiliations outside of Tufts Medical Center, including WIC programs, the Joslin Diabetes Center, Dialysis Clinic, Incorporated (DCI), and the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University.

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The FSNC staff is active in many professional associations, including the various practice groups of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, the Society for Nutrition Education, and the American Society for Nutrition Sciences.

The Frances Stern Nutrition Center has been accredited by the accrediting body of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, currently the Accreditation Council for the Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) since 1936 as a dietetic internship specifically designed for the training of clinical nutritionists. This program's area of emphasis is clinical nutrition which was chosen because it is our belief that solid preparation in clinical nutrition and medical nutrition therapy provides a strong basis for the training of a competent entry level dietitian since clinical healthcare teams are increasingly reliant upon RDs to optimize outcomes in both preventive and therapeutic management of health and disease. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, the student is eligible to take the examination to become a Registered Dietitian.

Prerequisites

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university; a minimum university cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required.

The school has permanently removed the GRE as a requirement, as part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  Read more  about this new change in admissions policy and what it means for your application to the school. For students taking the GRE who seek to refresh their verbal and quantitative skills, self-study materials and sample questions are available from the  Educational Testing Service .

• COMPLETION OF DIDACTIC PROGRAM OF DIETETICS ACADEMIC REQUIREMENT. For information concerning academic requirements for Academy membership and for general information concerning application to dietetic internships, log onto  www.eatright.org  or write to Publications Dept., Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics ( formerly the American Dietetic Association ), 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, (800) 877-1600

Master of Science

The Combined Masters Degree/Dietetic Internship Program requires completion of a Master of Science degree. The student receives a Master of Science degree from Tufts University. After completion of the program, it may be possible to continue on in pursuit of a doctorate degree.

The Combined Masters Degree/Dietetic Internship Program follows the Tufts University Friedman School Academic Calendar for Boston Degree Programs .

The Combined Masters Degree/Dietetic Internship Program offered by the Frances Stern Nutrition Center, Tufts Medical Center and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, is a full time 20 month program. Successful completion of the program fulfills requirements for eligibility to take the Registration Examination for dietitians upon completion of the program.

A Verification Statement is issued by and signed by the Dietetic Internship Director after the student has demonstrated satisfactory completion of at least 2096 hours of supervised practice. This statement is issued upon completion of the dietetic internship and Master of Science degree. If a student has not satisfactorily completed the following requirement, a Verification Statement will not be issued.

Graduation and Program Completion Requirements

The Combined MS/Dietetic Internship is the only ACEND accredited program offered through the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University.

Successful completion of the Combined MS/Dietetic Internship requires:

• Obtaining all undergraduate and DPD transcripts demonstrating attainment of undergraduate degree and undergraduate (DPD) verification statement.
• Completion of 2096 supervised practice hours
• Completion of all Tufts University Friedman School Master of Science degree requirements. Please refer to the Degree Requirement Worksheet for the specific coursework.
• Meeting all of the objectives for required affiliations including satisfactory completion of all internship rotations, assignments, attendance, and behavioral requirements, and following all policies and procedures of the FSNC Dietetic Internship
• Clinical Case Presentation
• One Journal Club Presentation
• Sample Professional Development Portfolio
• Legislative Assignment
• Minimum 8 hours of community service
• Obtaining all rotation evaluations
• Payment of the Clinical Training Fee in full

Upon successful completion of the of the MS/DI program, the intern will receive a Dietetic Internship Verification Statement and the student’s information will be submitted to the Commission on Dietetics Registration (CDR) for eligibility for the RD exam. The Dietetic Internship Verification Statement and submission to CDR will not be provided until all of the above requirements are met. 

The Master of Science/Dietetic Internship program is designed to meet the educational requirements for the State of Massachusetts. Determinations regarding professional licensure and certification eligibility associated with this program are outlined below.

• The Program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure and/or certification as an entry-level registered dietitian in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Washington DC, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
• Since no licensure or certification exists in some states, a determination has not been made as to whether or not the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure and/or certification as an entry-level registered dietitian in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Michigan, and Virginia.

For more information about state licensure requirements  click here .

For more information about educational pathways to become a RDN  click here .

Becoming a Registered Dietitian

The combined Master of Science/Dietetic Internship program provides the education and training necessary to become a Registered Dietitian. Completion of educational programs and supervised practice that are ACEND-accredited is required for the training to become a Registered Dietitian. Our program is an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program designed to be undertaken after completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college university and the Didactic Program in Dietetics. 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). In order to be approved for registration examination eligibility with a bachelor’s degree, an individual must meet all eligibility requirements and be submitted into CDR's Registration Eligibility Processing System (REPS) before  12:00 midnight Central Time, December 31, 2023 . For more information about this requirement visit CDR's website:  https://www.cdrnet.org/graduatedegree . In addition, CDR requires that individuals complete coursework and supervised practice in program(s) accredited by ACEND. Graduates who successfully complete the ACEND-accredited dietetic internship program at Tufts University/Tufts Medical Center are eligible to take the CDR credentialing exam to become an RDN. The Registration Exam requirements are set by the  Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) . After successfully passing the Registration Examination, graduates can practice as Registered Dietitians. In order to maintain registration, graduates must complete continuing professional educational requirements. In most states, graduates also must obtain licensure or certification to practice.

The Board of Registration of Dietitians/Nutritionists grants licenses to qualified individuals who comply with the requirements of the statute. The Board also insures that licensees have complied with continuing professional education requirements necessary to maintain current knowledge and renew their license.  

More information about licensure 

Program Goals and Objectives

Goal 1: Produce competent entry-level registered dietitians with special expertise in clinical nutrition therapy that have a foundation needed to practice nutrition successfully in a variety of areas (such as clinical dietetics, health promotion, disease prevention, palliation, research, industry, or government).

• Objective 1: At least 80% of program interns complete program requirements within 30 months (150% of program length).
• Objective 2: 90% of program graduates take the RD credentialing exam within 12 months of program completion.
• Objective 3: The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
• Objective 4: The program’s first time pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam on the first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 90%.
• Objective 5:  Of graduates who seek employment and respond to the alumni survey, 85% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
• Objective 6: 90% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will rate themselves satisfied with their clinical training as preparation for their professional positions at one and five years post-graduation
• Objective 7: 85% of employers who respond to the employer survey are satisfied with our graduates’ preparation for entry-level practice.

Goal 2:  Prepare future dietetics leaders to practice with a strong commitment to citizenship, collaboration, and ethical standards and successfully navigate current and future professional issues and challenges.

• Objective 1: 95% of graduates will conduct their professional practice and personal behavior in accordance with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Code of Ethics.
• Objective 2:  85% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will report an understanding of leadership and management issues and approaches in a variety of organizational systems.
• Objective 3: 50% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will have been involved in professional activities such as participation in local, state, or national nutrition and dietetics organizations and/or committees.
• Objective 4: 85% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will report the attainment of the knowledge and skills needed to participate in nutrition research.
• Objective 5: 50% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will have submitted a professional publication or poster or provided a nutrition related presentation to a professional of community audience.

For over 10 years, 100% of enrolled students have completed and graduated from the Program. Additional program outcome data is available upon request. Please contact Dietetic Internship Director, Kelly Kane at [email protected]  for further information.

Accreditation.

The Combined Dietetic Internship/Masters Degree Program at the Frances Stern Nutrition Center, Tufts Medical Center, is currently granted accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The next program review is scheduled for Fall 2024. ACEND is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation and the United States Dept of Education.

ACEND's phone number is: +1 (800) 877-1600 ext. 5400 Or (312) 899-0040 Fax: 312/899-4817 [email protected] Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000 Chicago, IL 60606-6995

Visit the ACEND Website

*The Combined Dietetic Internship/Master's Degree will participate in the online  dietetic internship centralized application process (DICAS) . Please see the "How to Apply" tab below for further instructions.

If you are interested in learning more about the program, you can attend one of our virtual open houses which occur via Zoom on the THIRD Friday of every month at 2 pm EST. Please email  [email protected]   if you are interested.

Frances Stern Nutrition Center Dietetic Internship participates in the  Centralized Online Dietetic Internship Application (DICAS)  and only participates in the spring dietetic internship matching. In addition to the DICAS application, applicants are also required to complete and submit the Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy application form.  Do NOT send materials directly to FSNC or Tufts University.

Selection Criteria

Application to the Combined / Master's Degree/Dietetic Internship Program requires successful completion of The Academy's Didactic Program in Dietetics requirements and fulfillment of the application process noted above.

Interns are selected based on:

• Scholastic achievement
• Professional references
• Written and oral expression
• Leadership abilities
• Professional activities
• Work experience
• GRE scores (optional)

Application Checklist

• Submit personal statement, recommendations, and transcript through this application.
• DICAS charges $50 for the first application and $25 for each additional application.
• Complete Application Information and Academic History Section
• Do NOT submit essays, recommendations, or other supporting material through the online application.  
• Pay a $70 application fee through the online application system.

Note: The cost for participating in the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System (DICAS) is separate from the FSNC Application Fee.

Deadline for Application

The deadline for application to the Combined Dietetic Internship / Master Degree Program at Frances Stern Nutrition Center / Tufts University is the spring matching deadline for the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System (DICAS), February 15, 2024. Do not send any materials directly to Tufts University. 

Computer Matching

The Master of Science/Dietetic Internship Program at Frances Stern Nutrition Center / Tufts University participates in the Computer Matching Program sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. All applicants must also participate in the Computer Matching Program through D &D Digital, otherwise their application will not be considered. Applicants should follow directions on the D & D Digital website (link below), and prioritize their Dietetic Internship preferences, from any Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics-accredited Didactic Programs. There is a $65.00 charge for D &D Digital computer matching. 

D&D Digital Systems 304 Main Street, Suite 301 Ames, IA 50010-6148

Phone: +1 (515) 292-0490 Fax: +1 (515) 663-9427 Website: www.dnddigital.com Email: [email protected]

Appointments to the internship are made on match day, as designated by D&D Digital. Applicants will find their matching result on www.dnddigital.com. This is the ONLY source of notification for applicants. The Appointment Date is in April. Matched applicants must contact the dietetic internship director by telephone, FAX or email on or before 5:00 PM (time zone of the program) on Notification Day to confirm the acceptance of the match.

Phase II Selection

Any combined Master of Science/Dietetic Internship positions not filled during first round match will be selected from applications that were reviewed by the program with the first round match. This means that students who have applied during the first round matching process but, did not match to any program during the first round, will be given priority for a Phase II selection.

• The program will reach out directly to any unmatched students who have previously applied to the program during the first round to begin the Phase II selection.
• If the open internship position is still not filled after consideration of the initial applicants, new applications to the combined Master of Science/Dietetic Internship program  will be considered from students who have not previously applied to the program.
• New applicants should apply to the program through DICAS Phase II, and must meet the application requirements as stated above, including application to the Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy and optionally reporting GRE test scores.
• For further information or questions about the Phase II Selection, please contact Kelly Kane at [email protected]

For current tuition rates, please refer to our Tuition and Expenses page to an overview of tuition and fees. This document shows expenses not only for the Friedman degree programs, but also for living in/around Boston, books and supplies, and associated fees. 

For information about financial aid, please refer to the Office of Financial Aid page .

Students wishing to view the MS or PhD  degree requirement worksheet associated with their year of entry for the most accurate requirements.

Required Courses

Seven core courses are required for all students and are taught at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, as well the courses offered via the optional specialization, Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Nutrition (see specialization courses on degree requirement worksheet linked above). The core courses include:

• Nutritional Biochemistry (NUTR 315)
• Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy (NUTR 316)
• Principles of Epidemiology (NUTR 204)
• Fundamentals of Nutrition Policy and Programming: How Science and Practice Interact (NUTR 203; common substitute NUTB 206) or other approved policy class of choice
• Statistical Methods for Health Professionals I and II (NUTB 250 and NUTB 350)
• Advanced Clinical Nutrition Practice in Kidney Disease (NUTR 0374)
• Senior Project (enroll via NUTR 497: Directed Study)

The remainder of graduate course work consists of four additional elective courses. Students have the opportunity to take elective courses in the graduate degree programs at Tufts University School of Medicine Master of Public Health program, Harvard University School of Public Health, Brandeis University, Boston College, Boston University, and Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Tufts University, as well as at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy.

Minicourses

In addition to regular courses, there are minicourses and special classes designed to help interns become more skillful practitioners. Lecturers are from our own medical and dental faculties as well as from other universities or health care facilities. Examples of recent offerings include counseling, pediatrics, and management.

Joint Internship Classes

Lectures by prominent Boston physicians, dietitians, and other experts are offered regularly in joint classes for all the dietetic internships of Greater Boston and throughout Massachusetts including, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts General, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Mount Auburn Hospital, Simmons College, Boston University, University of New Hampshire, and Southcoast/Sodexho Hospitals. This gives interns a chance to meet professional colleagues and to become familiar with the extensive health care resources of the city.  Topics include: Nutrition Support, Sports Nutrition, Obesity, Nutrition Research, and others.

Workshops, planned for each class according to need, may include Research Design, Cultural Diversity and a Management Seminar.

Program Timeline

First year (entering student), second year (senior student) (june - may), transfer of courses previously taken.

A student may transfer toward their Master of Science/Dietetic Internship degree program a course previously taken at other universities or other Tufts University schools, provided the course was not used toward another degree. Transfer of a course(s) does not reduce the cost of the Dietetic Internship degree program. Only courses that have been taken within the last five years at regionally accredited U.S. universities are routinely considered for transfer. Students who wish to transfer courses taken outside the U.S. or for courses taken more than five years prior to enrollment should discuss the possibility with the Academic Dean and exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis. The maximum quantity of transfer courses as semester hour units allowed for MS/Dietetic Internship degree program is: 6 semester hour units.

The following materials are required for a course to be considered for transfer of semester hour units:

• An official transcript demonstrating a grade of B or better in the course and showing the year the course was taken;
• A detailed syllabus, in English. (Note: if a syllabus is not available, students may petition the Academic Dean to substitute course notes or other material);
• The amount of the Friedman School semester hour units requested;
• A completed Petition for Transfer of a Course form with all of the above information ( http://nutrition.tufts.edu/students/registrar/forms ).

Graduates of our program hold a variety of positions in the fields of nutrition and policy. These include:

• Faculty member, coordinated undergraduate program in dietetics
• Nutrition in ambulatory services of a teaching hospital or general hospital
• Nutritionist for neighborhood health centers, health maintenance organizations, or maternal and infant care centers
• Consultant for private health organization, group practice, extended care facilities, and day care centers
• Teaching in colleges, universities and schools of nursing
• Nutritionist in rehabilitation institutes
• Full professor in a Dental School
• Nutritionist on inpatient nutrition support team
• Clinical nutritionist in community and teaching hospitals
• Research dietitian
• State food and nutrition specialist (cooperative extension)
• Director of clinical nutrition services
• Nutritionist in the private sector - food industry
• Director of Dietetic Internship
• Nutritionist at a Health Center or Athletic Facility
• Nutritionist in an outpatient weight loss center
• Nutrition Communication Specialist at a Dairy Council
• Project Manager at a restaurant company that focuses on sustainability and local sourcing
• Dietitian in Private Practice
• Healthcare Marketing Associate
• Research Unit Project Manager
• Senior Program Manager for a community based pediatric nutrition initiative

Additionally, alumni of the Frances Stern Nutrition Center have been employed by a wide range of companies and organizations, including the World Health Organization, Oke USA Fair Trade Fruit Company, Mathematica, Bon Appetit Management Company, The Almond Board, USDA, California Department of Public Health, Equal Exchange Program, Kaiser Permanente, DynaMed, Med Mark Nutrition Labeling Initiative.

Frances Stern Nutrition Center

The Frances Stern Nutrition Center was established in 1918 by Frances Stern, a pioneer in the field of applied nutrition. The Center was the first organization of its kind in the world and has served as a model for many other nutrition clinics in the U.S. and abroad.

In the early 1900s most people did not understand the fundamental principles of nutrition. Frances Stern, a well-respected nutritionist for the US Department of Agriculture, recognized this problem and simply suggested, "Someone should show them." Taking her own advice to heart, Stern revolutionized nutritional education by using visual aids in her instruction. She believed that it is better to show rather than tell people how much they can eat.

Read more on their web site

Tufts Medical Center

Nutrition resources at the Tufts Medical Center include both adult and pediatric clinical programs for hospitalized and ambulatory patients, as well as the Frances Stern Nutrition Center. Tufts Medical Center is the major clinical unit affiliated with the Tufts University School of Medicine. Tufts Medical Center has established a national and international reputation for research, teaching, patient care, and graduate and postgraduate education.

Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts

Scientists at the HNRCA examine how nutrition impacts healthy aging and the role nutrition plays in preventing diseases of the aging. The HNRCA, which is an independent research facility  located two blocks away from the Friedman school on the Tufts Boston campus, was established in 1977 as a unique partnership between the USDA and the University.  Many of the scientists at the HNRCA’s 20 research labs are also Friedman School faculty.  Friedman students have unique opportunities to conduct research  under the supervision of HNRCA scientists who have international stature in their respective areas of research expertise.

Boston Food Allergy Center

The Boston Food Allergy Center offers patients with food allergy and/or food associated gut disorders comprehensive state-of-the-art diagnostic studies and treatments including oral food challenges, skin prick testing, patch testing, component-resolved diagnostics, endoscopies, as well as various breath tests to evaluate for H. pylori, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and various food intolerances. Students will work with Dr. John Leung , a US-trained physician triple board-certified in Allergy/Immunology, Gastroenterology, and Internal Medicine in reviewing clinical history, physical exam, and previous laboratory, histological, and endoscopic data, confirming a diagnosis and providing a customized nutrition therapy plan.

Read more on their website

Ambulatory Services: Outpatient Counseling Adults

Interns are provided with introductory experiences and close staff supervision in counseling patients. This is typically a five week rotation. Common patient diagnoses are hypertension, diabetes, cancer, prenatal conditions, and underweight. Typical diet instructions include sodium restriction and weight gain. The focus of this experience is on developing skills in planning nutritional care, counseling, and documenting care provided. This includes setting priorities, long-term goals, and behavioral objectives for patients. Interns are also provided opportunity to complete nutrition evaluation, therapy, and care of patients undergoing evaluation for or after solid organ transplantation (heart, kidney, and liver), patients in the adult and pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic settings, as well pediatric patients in our general pediatric clinic.The student plans individualized nutrition care and provides nutrition counseling on the basis of nutrition priorities. This rotation is a partial virtual rotation.

Administrative/Management Affiliation

This three week experience includes activities involved in the management of the nutrition staff and hospital departmental budget as well as exposure to program management at the Friedman School. The interns also are involved in data collection for quality improvement activities as well as individual clinical management projects. Typically, two weeks is spent in the Tufts Medical Center Frances Stern Nutrition Center (face to face, onsite) and one week is spent working on program management at the Friedman School (virtual rotation).

WIC/Public Health

After an observation period, interns function as staff nutritionists in the Women, Infants and Children Program in a neighborhood health center in and around Boston during this two to three week rotation. Among other activities, they identify individuals who are at nutritional risk, provide nutritional counseling to individuals and groups, and refer clients to other health team members when appropriate. This rotation may be held virtually (fully or partially).

USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging

Students participate in ongoing nutrition surveys, ambulatory studies, metabolic studies, and the operations of a kitchen in a large research unit. They are exposed to recruitment methods, research protocols and protocols, and interdisciplinary projects. Typically, this rotation is two - three weeks in length (face to face, onsite).

MGH Weight Center/Tufts Medical Center Weight and Wellness Center

Students take part in the multidisciplinary care approach to obesity management. They observe and participate in individual and group counseling sessions. In addition, they are exposed to both the medical and surgical approaches to weight loss. The intern is also given the opportunity to directly observe a gastric restrictive surgery. Typically, two to three weeks is spent in the Tufts Medical Center Weight and Wellness Center ( partial virtual rotation) and three weeks are spent in the MGH Weight Center  (face to face, onsite).

Affiliations in Inpatient Acute Care

Clinical Experiences in Tufts Medical Center Inpatient Acute Care Setting: Interns are precepted in each specialty area by dietitians having expertise in the various specialty areas listed below  (all face to face, onsite).

Students function in the role of a clinical dietitian in an acute care hospital setting under the supervision of the clinical dietitians who have specialized expertise in particular areas of nutritional intervention. The students initially observe the dietitian and assist in daily tasks. They are later given individuals, groups, or a floor of patients to screen, assess, develop care plans for, monitor and counsel under the supervision of the dietitian. Each rotation provides a gradual increase in patient acuity and type of nutritional intervention required.The students' experience is enhanced by attendance at team conferences, medical and surgical rounds, journal review and nutrition rounds. In addition, journal articles and other readings pertinent to each rotation are available on the units. Students are also responsible for assuring that food service to patients is appropriate. They interact with the Food Services Department and are responsible for communicating pertinent patient information to them.

a. Cardiology

In this two week introduction to acute care, the dietetic intern develops basic skills in nutritional assessment, planning, implementation, monitoring and appropriate medical record documentation for patients with the following problems: cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarctions, atherosclerosis, heart transplantation, postoperative surgical needs and hyperlipidemias. The intern will develop appropriate nutritional care plans, monitor status and provide nutritional education for these patients.

b. General Medicine / General Surgery

During this three week rotation, the intern uses their newly acquired skills in nutritional assessment of more complicated medical patients including Renal, Cardiac, Diabetes, GI and the Aging Population. In addition, the dietetic intern identifies the special nutritional needs of surgical patients by assuming responsibility for the nutritional care of patients on the following surgical services: vascular, oncology, GI, gynecology, cardiothoracic, bariatric surgery, and general surgery. They develop appropriate nutrition care plans for patients on various modified diets as well as those on tube feedings, and are involved in education of patients and families. They also become familiar with the nutrient content or standard nutrition solutions and are able to recognize indications for use.

c. Hematology/ Oncology/ Bone Marrow Transplant

Interns provide nutritional care to patients having different types of cancers, including solid tumors, leukemias, lymphomas, and myelodysplastic syndromes. They also identify the special nutritional needs of the bone marrow transplant patient and become familiar with chemotherapeutic agents and their side effects effects and are introduced to parenteral nutrition during this three week rotation.

The students are provided a three week rotation in our level 3 neonatal ICU and our NICU follow up clinic in order to learn about the nutritional need and care of premature infants.

Advanced Clinical Experience/Staff Relief

In this affiliation, interns assume total responsibility for inpatient nutritional care in an assigned area for a three week period  (face to face, onsite ).

Additional Experiences

Students participate in nutrition assessment and care of ambulatory renal patients. They also observe and serve as a health care team member for patients undergoing hemodialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis during this four week rotation  (face to face, onsite ).

Students are provided with a unique experience in dealing directly with dental professionals on supervisory and advisory basis in reference to nutritional care of patients. The dietetic intern receives an overview of dental science and the relevant dietary factors which will make her a valuable asset to the dental profession. In this experience, the intern supervises dental students in teaching preventive nutrition dentistry to their patients. Typically, this rotation is two-three weeks in length  (face to face, onsite ).

Food Service Management

Through experience and observation, students develop skills in managing time and other resources; establishing safe and sanitary practices; purchasing, receiving and storing of food; developing, implementing and evaluating menus; providing for quality control; educating food service employees. The administrative and management skills developed in this affiliation promote greater effectiveness and adaptability in both clinical and community nutrition. It takes place at Tufts Medical Center's Food Service Department led by Sodexo during a two week period (face to face, onsite ) .

Optional Affiliation

An affiliation of about three weeks' duration in an area of special interest to the intern is planned. This is done to allow students to explore an area of interest or to permit a more in depth experience in a specific area. The Optional Affiliation time is application oriented, whereas Senior Independent Study (Senior Project) is more research oriented and is usually designed towards producing a publication. Flexibility is available for the Optional Affiliation, but alternate Affiliation choices must be discussed with and approved by the Dietetic Internship Director.

Program Costs (2022-2023)

Expenses for one year of a two year program

*The Dietetic Internship has a one-time Clinical Training Fee of $20,000 charged by Tufts Medical Center. Students may request an increase to their financial aid to cover this expense.