Dietetic Internship Program
What You'll Learn
Core courses include advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy, nutritional biochemistry,
systems and policy in health care, as well as several courses related to research
methods and the application of that methodology in practice. Outside of the classroom,
interns complete over 1,000 supervised practice hours in competency-focused experiences
that will prepare them to be competent, entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists.
Students who successfully complete the ĢƵDietetic Internship will earn a Verification
Statement to sit the Registration Examination for Dietitians through the .
Where You'll Go
Opportunities abound for registered dietitian nutritionists, ranging from clinical,
community, and food service administration options to entrepreneurial avenues. Clinical
opportunities include in-patient and out-patient experiences in hospitals and medical
clinics as well as in long-term care facilities. Community work reflects a wide spectrum
of options, from engaging with clients in health departments, ensuring community food
security and safety, and providing agricultural extension training and support across
the country. Leading administrative efforts in foodservice management can range from
hospital- and school-based enterprises to private ventures. There is an expanding
range of options in remote practice toward educating individuals and groups in optimal
nutrition. Additionally, corporate wellness and sports nutrition are possible avenues
for career exploration.
Next Steps
Dietetic Internship Program
Internship
College of Health and Human Sciences, School of Health Sciences
Remote, fully online coursework with all supervised practice experiences completed
where the student is located
Admission through general ĢƵgraduate enrollment
The Internship in Nutrition and Dietetics at ĢƵprepares students for careers in
nutrition, wellness, and dietetics through a strong foundation in food science, human
metabolism, medical nutrition therapy, and community nutrition. The program emphasizes
evidence-based practice, hands-on learning, and real-world application through labs,
service-learning, and supervised experiential learning. Graduates are prepared through
the accredited Dietetic Internship pathway to sit for the national Registration Examination
for Dietitians, and are well-prepared for careers in clinical nutrition, community
health, food service management, and wellness coaching.
About the Program
WCU’s Dietetic Internship Program is included in a 22-month Master of Health Sciences
(MHS)- Nutrition concentration program which begins each Fall semester, and is accredited
by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
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About the Program
About the Internship
WCU’s Dietetic Internship Program is included in a 22-month Master of Health Sciences
(MHS)- Nutrition concentration program which begins each Fall semester, and is accredited
by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
See the ĢƵDI Student Handbook for all program details, policies and procedures.
See the MHS-DI Course Sequence for a summary of the program timeline. See the ĢƵAcademic Calendar site for information on each semester’s key dates.
The DI is also open for students with a master’s degree in a related field from a
regionally accredited institution who also hold a Verification Statement from an ACEND-accredited
Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), proving completion of required academic coursework. ĢƵdoes not award credit for prior learning.
Courses
Prospective students must apply to ĢƵ’s Graduate School,
Master of Health Sciences (MHS) Program, as well as through the Dietetic Internship
Centralized Application System (DICAS) for admission. The program offers fully online coursework.
All MHS-Nutrition concentration students complete a total of 33 credit hours for degree
completion. The course sequence for dietetic interns begins with 1-yr (2 semesters)
of distance offered MHS core courses and advanced level (500-600 level) nutrition
courses; Supervised Practice/Supervised Experiential Learning (SP/SEL) begins the
third semester in the summer.
For students with a prior master’s degree, 6 credits of required course work include
Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy (ND 637) and Systems and Policy in Health Care
(MHS 510) in addition to the DI practicum courses focused on SP/SEL. These students
complete the program over 12 months, starting in the summer semester and continuing
through the following fall and spring semesters.
Practicum
All practicum work settings are in the United States and are located where the student
is located. Interns are required to locate their own preferred Supervised Practice (SP) sites
and preceptors. The program does provide some assistance in obtaining sites and preceptors.
The DI Director facilitates this process to ensure that interns are able to complete
SP experiences on schedule, with the goal of ensuring timely completion of the DI
program.
ĢƵhas over 2,500 affiliation agreements in place with sites around the county, with
a thoughtfully designed process for building affiliations with new potential sites.
All precepting sites must have an active affiliation agreement in place with ĢƵprior
to accepting interns.
Supervised practice rotations and didactic classes are designed to provide over 1,000
supervised practice hours and meet the ACEND Knowledge Competencies for the Registered
Dietitian. DI graduates are qualified to take the national Registration Examination for Dietitians. Technological competence and skills needed for this ĢƵdistance program: o Equipment requirements: o Reliable internet connection o Computer with video/audio capabilities and ability to install needed apps o Access to a phone o Access to a printer or scanner o Competency in use of Office 365 software: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint
Mission, Goals, & Objectives
The mission of the Dietetic Internship Program within the MHS-ND concentration at
ĢƵ is to provide a high-quality supervised practicum that
prepares entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists, promotes life-long learning,
meaningful engagement, and service to the profession of nutrition through optimizing
human health.
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Mission, Goals, & Objectives
ND-DI Vision
To be a model for nutrition and dietetics education through experiential learning
and progressive approaches to serve the community.
ND-DI Mission Statement
The mission of the Dietetic Internship Program within the MHS-ND concentration at
ĢƵ is to provide a high-quality supervised practicum that
prepares entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists, promotes life-long learning,
meaningful engagement, and service to the profession of nutrition through optimizing
human health.
ACEND Goals and Objectives
Measurable outcomes are as required and approved by our accrediting body, the Accreditation
Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (). ĢƵDI program goals and objectives include:
Goal 1:
Graduates will become entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists and begin practicing
in the field of nutrition and/or wellness.
o Objective 1.1: At least 75% of program graduates who respond to the alumni survey
will indicate that they were prepared to apply the evidenced-based practice guidelines
in practice. o Objective 1.2: At least 80% of program graduates complete program/degree requirements
within 36 months (150% of the program length). o Objective 1.3: 80% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian
nutritionists within 12 months of program completion. o 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%. o Objective 1.5: Of graduates who seek employment, 75% are employed in nutrition
and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
Goal 2:
Employers will report satisfaction outcomes for graduate preparation for entry-level
positions within the field.
o Objective 2.1 Employers will report 75% satisfaction for graduate preparation
for entry level positions within the field after the first 12 months of employment. Program outcome data are available upon request.
RDN Requirements
Successfully completing WCU’s Dietetic Internship program is a key step to becoming
a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Additional requirements include completing your
master’s degree and sitting for the national examination to become an RDN.
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RDN Requirements
Requirements
See additional information about becoming an RDN at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
.
Completing WCU’s MHS–Nutrition concentration does not automatically grant Registered
Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) status. To become a registered dietitian nutritionist,
you will need to:
Complete a minimum of a master's degree granted by a college or university accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized
accrediting agency or foreign equivalent, and coursework through an .
Complete required supervised practice/experience through an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program, Graduate Program,
or an Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway offered through an ACEND-accredited
program.
Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. For more information regarding
the examination, refer to .
Meet requirements to practice in your state. Many states have regulatory laws (i.e. licensure) for food and nutrition practitioners.
All states accept the RDN credential for state licensure purposes. Search for state-level licensure guidance at the .
Stay up-to-date in dietetics through continuing education. After successfully passing the national exam and earning the credential, RDNs maintain
ongoing professional development in order to stay up to date on the latest research,
recommendations and best practices
The intern will receive a Dietetic Internship Verification Statement in-person or
via mail within 2 weeks following successful completion of the MHS- Nutrition concentration.
Steps 1 and 2 must be completed at an ACEND accredited institution.
Completing WCU’s accredited Dietetic Internship and WCU’s Master’s degree in Health
Sciences will address steps 1 and 2.
Students who successfully compete WCU’s DI Program receive a Dietetic Internship Verification
Statement in-person or via mail within 2 weeks following successful completion of
the MHS- Nutrition concentration.
This Verification Statement signifies completion of the second step toward the RDN
credential and will prepare you for the national registration exam (step 3).
The intern will receive a Dietetic Internship Verification Statement in-person or
via mail within 2 weeks following successful completion of the MHS- Nutrition concentration.
Application Process & Financial Aid
Applicants must apply through both the ĢƵGraduate School and the Dietetic Internship
Centralized Application System (DICAS). Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
are available and require separate application.
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Application Process & Financial Aid
The Application Process:
Application to WCU’s ND-DI program is competitive. Applicants must meet minimum requirements
and include a variety of application materials to aid in assessment of potential for
success in the program.
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee. Qualified applicants may be invited
to a video interview to help identify the most highly qualified and prepared applicants
for the program. Prospective students must first apply through the Dietetic Internship Centralized
Application System .
Your DICAS materials can be provided electronically as a part of your ĢƵGraduate
School application.
Application requirements for the Dietetic Internship through DICAS
Please note that DICAS minimum standards exceed ĢƵMHS standards.
- Dietetic Internship application submission via Dietetic Internship Centralized
Application Services ()
- Official transcript(s) for all schools attended
- Minimum DPD GPA of 3.2
- A resume
- Personal statement
- Listing and description of volunteer and/or paid experience in nutrition and dietetics
- Declaration of Intent to Complete Degree or DPD Verification Statement
Admission requirements for WCU’s MHS Program:
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in all upper-level undergraduate course work
- 3 letters of recommendation from instructors or employers who are able to judge
aptitude for graduate study
- Personal Statement
Admission requirements for WCU’s DI Program for applicants with a master’s degree:
- Master’s degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution
- Verification Statement from an ACEND-accredited DPD
- 3 letters of recommendation from instructors or employers who are able to judge
aptitude for graduate study
- Personal Statement
Verification Statement Requirements:
Verification Statement: An original, completed verification form obtained from your
DPD director, which states that you have completed all ACEND®-required coursework.
This is different from the form you sent in with your DI application packet. We require
an original copy. Your original verification statement must be on file prior to beginning
the program.
Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Students enrolled in the DI Program may be eligible for financial aid. See the link
to learn more about Tuition and Funding for graduate students .
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Application opens during the Fall semester, and the deadline for submitting the scholarship application online is in early Spring semester. Students also must submit the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by January 1 each year in order to be considered for
need-based scholarships.
How much does the ĢƵdietetic internship cost?
Tuition rates are reviewed and set annually by the North Carolina legislature. The
University reserves the right to alter any charges without prior notice. See the WCU
Tuition and Fees site for detailed information about all tuition and fees. See ĢƵDistance Education and Fees for a summary of distance learning costs by credit hour.
Financial assistance and scholarships for MHS-Nutrition students
Various financial sources, such as grants and loans are available to qualified graduate
students in the DI Program.
To become eligible, an application for financial assistance can be obtained by visiting
the ĢƵFinancial Aid website or by contacting the ĢƵFinancial Aid Office in Room 230 of the Robinson Administration
Building, telephone 828-227-7290. Financial aid recipients are expected to comply
with the guidelines established by each specific granting or loaning agency.
Program Completion & Graduation
To successfully complete ĢƵ’s MHS-Nutrition concentration
degree and receive a signed program completion Verification Statement, interns must
meet all of the following criteria.
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Program Completion & Graduation
Requirements
To successfully complete ĢƵ’s MHS-Nutrition concentration
degree and receive a signed program completion Verification Statement, interns must
meet all of the following criteria:
Pass all courses with a “B” or better
Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in order to graduate
Complete all competencies/Learning Outcomes for DIs
Complete all assignments
Work all assigned supervised practice hours
Turn in all evaluation forms
The intern will receive a Dietetic Internship Verification Statement in-person or
via mail within 2 weeks following successful completion of the MHS- Nutrition concentration.
The intern must complete the required supervised practice hours and demonstrate satisfactory
performance and competence throughout the program rotations as evaluated by site preceptors
and DI Director.
The intern must complete all program and self-assessments with the DI Director.
The intern must demonstrate no misconduct, academic or non-academic, and must perform
ethically in accordance with the values of the Academy and .
The intern will receive a Dietetic Internship Verification Statement in-person or
via mail within 2 weeks following successful completion of the MHS- Nutrition concentration.
Dietetic Internship Preceptors
Review the WCU DI Preceptor Orientation for helpful guidance as to the precepting role and related responsibilities. Contact
the DI Director with your questions and comments.
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Dietetic Internship Preceptors
Dietetic Internship Preceptors:
Thank you for your interest in mentoring the next generation of dietetics professionals.
Your experience and insight are essential to guiding the future of our profession.
Review the WCU DI Preceptor Orientation for helpful guidance as to the precepting role and related responsibilities. Contact
the DI Director with your questions and comments. We are happy to help, and appreciate
your service.
CPEU Credit for Preceptors:
RDN/RD and NDTR/DTR preceptors can earn up to 3 CPEUs per year, or up to 15 CPEUs
per 5-yer reporting period for their service.
- See the Commission of Dietetic Registration site, , for information about this CPEU opportunity.
- To earn this credit: complete the and email to the DI Director for their signature.
- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers a free . Earn 8 CPEUs as you learn more about the nuances of precepting and mentoring students.
The Dietetic Internship, part of the Master of Health Sciences, is accredited by:
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190 Chicago, Illinois 60606-6995 Phone: 800-877-1600 ext. 5400