The field of dietetics is dynamic and rewarding, offering numerous opportunities to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) typically involves a significant investment of time and effort. Accelerated programs provide a streamlined path to achieving this goal, combining undergraduate and graduate studies with supervised practice to prepare graduates for the RDN credentialing exam. This article explores the requirements and pathways associated with accelerated dietitian programs, highlighting key aspects such as academic prerequisites, program structure, accreditation, and career prospects.
The Evolving Requirements for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists
It is important to note a significant change in the credentialing requirements for RDNs. Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) mandates a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the registration examination. Prior to this date, individuals meeting all other eligibility criteria could apply for the exam with a bachelor's degree, provided their application was submitted to CDR's Registration Eligibility Processing System (REPS) before December 31, 2023. In addition to the degree requirement, the CDR also requires the completion of coursework and supervised practice in programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
What is an Accelerated Dietitian Program?
Accelerated programs offer students the opportunity to complete the requirements for both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a condensed timeframe, typically five years, compared to the traditional six to seven years of full-time academic work. These programs integrate supervised practice with coursework, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
Key Components of Accelerated Programs
- Combined Bachelor's and Master's Degrees: Students earn both a B.S. in Dietetics and an M.S., often in Nutrition or a related field. Completion of the degree requirements for a B.S. in Dietetics and M.S.
- ACEND Accreditation: Programs must be accredited by ACEND to ensure that they meet the required standards of education and supervised practice.
- Supervised Practice: Completion of an ACEND®-accredited supervised practice program at a healthcare facility, community agency, and a foodservice corporation. In the ACP, the supervised practice is connected to the B.S. in Dietetics and M.S.
- Verification Statement: Upon successful completion of the graduate program, a verification statement is granted, making the graduate eligible to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam.
- Accelerated Pace: The curriculum is designed to allow students to complete both degrees in a shorter amount of time, often by taking undergraduate and graduate courses concurrently.
Admission Requirements for Accelerated Programs
Admission to accelerated dietetics programs is competitive and typically requires a strong academic record, especially in science and mathematics. The requirements of some universities are below:
- Academic Performance: Applicants should demonstrate satisfactory performance in science and mathematics courses. A minimum GPA is often required, such as 2.75 or higher. The minimum GPA for admission into FND programs can be 2.80, but admission is highly competitive.
- Coursework: Completion of high school biology and chemistry with laboratory components, as well as two years of college preparatory mathematics, is strongly recommended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Supporting letters from teachers or professionals who can attest to the applicant’s ability to handle a rigorous science-based curriculum and their desire to contribute to the healthcare system are highly encouraged.
- Interviews and Personal Statements: Some programs may require an in-person or telephone interview with the department director or a faculty member. A personal statement explaining the applicant's academic and personal skills, as well as their understanding of the dietetics field, is also commonly required.
- Resume: A resume demonstrating evidence of adequate exposure to the field of dietetics and an appreciation of the breadth, depth, and scope of practice.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The structure of accelerated programs varies, but they generally involve a combination of didactic coursework and supervised experiential learning.
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Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD)
Many programs include a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), which provides extensive coursework in the sciences, social sciences, management, and specialized courses covering the broad field of food, nutrition, and dietetics. All DPD students will need to complete an undergraduate professional practice experience as a program requirement. A DPD verification statement is required for graduates to begin an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship after acceptance, and for other professional applications requiring verification of DPD Program completion.
Supervised Experiential Learning
A critical component of accelerated programs is the supervised practice, which provides hands-on experience in various settings, such as:
- Healthcare facilities
- Community agencies
- Foodservice corporations
These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge and skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. Some programs may require students to have access to their own transportation to reach supervised practice sites.
Integrating Undergraduate and Graduate Coursework
In the accelerated program, students will take undergraduate courses in their first three years and both undergraduate and graduate courses during their fourth year. In year five, students will only take graduate courses. Twelve credits of designated master’s courses are incorporated into the bachelor’s degree program and count toward both the bachelor’s degree and the master’s degree.
Accreditation and the Future Education Model (FEM)
Accreditation by ACEND is essential for any dietetics program. It ensures that the program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty, and supervised practice. Some accelerated programs are accredited as Future Education Model (FEM) graduate programs. FEM accreditation standards integrate didactic coursework with supervised experiential learning in a competency-based curriculum designed to prepare graduates for future practice.
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Financial Aid and Tuition
Accelerated programs can be a significant investment, but financial aid options are available. Students may receive assistance in the form of grants, scholarships, student loans, and part-time employment. Some universities offer comprehensive financial aid programs with funds available from federal and state governments, private sponsors, and university resources. Students in Accelerated BS to MS Concentrations that are eligible for financial aid may receive undergraduate financial aid for the 9 graduate credits that are required to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations
Graduates of accelerated dietetics programs are well-prepared for a variety of career opportunities. Some common settings include:
- Medical centers
- Acute care facilities
- Long-term care facilities
- Corporate wellness programs
- Community organizations (WIC, University Extension, etc.)
- Food and medical product companies
- School nutrition programs
- Education and research institutions
- Sports nutrition
- Private practice
The Career Development Center provides the skills and connections to identify a meaningful career and an opportunity to pursue your passion. The research is provided by Encoura, the leading research and advisory firm focused exclusively on higher education. It includes median national salaries and industry growth projections over the next decade.
State Licensure and Certification
Most states require individuals working in dietetics or nutrition to be licensed or certified. For example, in Kentucky, dietitians are licensed, while nutritionists are state-certified. A professional who qualifies for dietitian licensure also qualifies for nutritionist certification. Practitioners must hold state-issued credentials unless they fall under exemption categories described in the state statute. Once a UK ACP student has proof of successful completion of the CDR exam, they are qualified to apply for Licensure for Dietitians and Nutritionists in the state of Kentucky.
Considerations for Students with Disabilities
Universities are committed to providing an accessible environment for all students. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply to accelerated dietetics programs, and reasonable accommodations will be provided as appropriate. However, students should be aware that external facilities where supervised practice takes place may require screening measures such as criminal background checks, health appraisals, and drug tests. The results of these requirements may limit placement options, potentially affecting the ability to meet graduation requirements.
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