Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) Degree Details

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Admission Application Cost Policies Program Handbook Student Handbook Prerequisite and Co-Requisite Courses
Explore This Section
Admission Application Cost Policies Program Handbook Student Handbook Prerequisite and Co-Requisite Courses
Program Curriculum and Learning Activities
female students sitting at table with laptops, instructor looking at them
Plan of Study

The Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S) is a 3 year accelerated bachelor's to master's degree program, consisting of 7 total semesters.
two students looking at food models
Competencies

Through didactic coursework and supervised experiential learning (SEL), the Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) program at SDSU will provide opportunities for students to accomplish Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition & Dietetics (ACEND) Graduate Degree Competencies and Performance Indicators at levels of knows(K), shows(S) and does(D)
Katy Vanderwal, pictured at right, will receive an award from the South Dakota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Sites and Preceptors

Supervised experiential learning professional work settings will be selected based upon their potential for providing a positive learning environment for students and their ability to provide required practice experiences.
three female students in chef coats cutting vegetables
Supervised Experiential Learning (SEL)

The plan of study progresses through didactic coursework as well as SEL experiences. Students will progress from lab-based SEL experiences to 鈥渞eal world鈥 practicums in professional work settings under the supervision of qualified preceptors.
Mission and Goals

Specific outcome data for each objective available upon request by contacting the Nutrition and Dietetics (M.S.) Program Director.

Megan Northrup
Mission

To offer a rigorous and diverse competency-based program, combining knowledge and supervised experiential learning experiences in preparing master鈥檚 level graduates as entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists who are dedicated to lifelong learning and improving the health of individuals, families and communities.

Program Goal #1

Graduates will be competent entry-level practitioners with the skills required to provide professional services aimed at improving the health and quality of life for individuals, families and communities.

Objectives for Goal #1
  1. At least 80% of program graduates complete program/degree requirements within 4.5 years (150% of the program length).
  2. Of graduates who seek employment, 70% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
  3. 80% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
  4. The program鈥檚 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%.
  5. 50% of supervisors responding to the employee satisfaction survey for program graduates at 10-12 months post program completion who are employed in nutrition and dietetics, or related fields will rank their perceived skill level of the program graduate鈥檚 competencies and preparation for entry-level practice at 3.0 or > on a 5.0 scale with 5.0 being the highest skilled ranking.
  6. 50% of program graduates responding to the post graduate survey at 10-12 months post program completion who are employed in nutrition and dietetics, or related fields will rank their perceived skill level in competencies at 3.0 or > on a 5.0 scale with 5.0 being the highest skilled ranking.
Program Goal #2


Graduates will be committed to lifelong learning, service and/or community engagement. 

Objectives for Goal #2
  1. 80% of program graduates responding to the post graduate survey, rank their lifelong learning attitude and practices at a 3.0 or > on a 5.0 scale with 5.0 being the highest ranking.
  2. 80% of program graduates responding to the post graduate survey, report involvement in one or more activities related to service and/or community engagement, either through their employment, professional organizations, scholarly pursuits or volunteer activities.
Program Director