| If you choose not to complete an internship, the strong biological and social science foundation of the program also provides you with a foundation for a variety of health-related professional programs or employment as a nutrition educator, food service manager, pharmaceutical sales representative or a variety of other challenging positions. |
Are there any GPA requirements for the Dietetics Program?
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| Yes! Didactic Program in Dietetics Verification from Meredith College requires a completed baccalaureate degree. It also requires a minimum QPR of 3.0 in all coursework to meet ADA domains for foundation, knowledge, and skills. There is an internship shortage and acceptance into an internship is not guaranteed.
Students holding a bachelor’s degree may obtain DPD verification by completing course work identified to complete foundation knowledge and skills. Those seeking verification must complete course work in food service management and medical nutritional assessment, therapy, and counseling at Meredith College at the minimum for DPD verification statement. Transcripts will be reviewed by the DPD director on an individual basis. |
What are the costs of the DPD Program?
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Tuition, books and other fees are listed on the Meredith College website at: http://www.meredith.edu/financial_assistance/
Additional costs for the DPD program may include
- Lab fees for specific courses. (FN 126; FN 311; FN 336)
- Transportation costs for volunteer or shadowing experiences.
- Application fees and mailing costs for dietetic internship or graduate programs.
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What are the policies and procedures of the DPD Program?
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Protection of privacy of information (confidentiality of student records).
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Meredith College, in accordance the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (i.e., the Buckley Amendment) assures the confidentiality of student educational records. FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, is a federal law requiring Meredith College to protect the confidentiality of student educational records. Meredith College has adopted the
policies to comply with the law, to inform students of their privacy rights, and to maintain the protection of student educational records. However, student educational records may be released without the student’s consent to school officials who have a legitimate educational interest to access the records, and the College may disclose information from a student’s educational records to either individual or entities permitted under applicable federal and state law. Information on confidentiality of records is on page 37 of theMeredith College Undergraduate Catalog, available at: http://www.meredith.edu/academics/ |
Access to personal files.
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| Students have the right under FERPA to inspect and review their education records and to appeal to the appropriate office to have any incorrect information corrected. Students also have the right to file complaints with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office concerning alleged failures by Meredith to comply with the Act. To review your student files, contact the Office of the Registrar 121 Johnson Hall, during their office hours. Students must show student ID to review their files. Letters of recommendation or other materials to which the student has waived her rights will not be available for review by the student. |
Access to student support services, including health services, counseling and testing, and financial aid resources. Information and policies for students are available through the Student Handbook:
http://www.meredith.edu/handbook/student-services.htm |
Health services are provided through the Student Health Services which is located110 Carroll. Additional information about their services can be found at: http://www.meredith.edu/students/health/students.htm
Financial aid resources are available through the Meredith College Office of Financial Assistance, third floor Johnson Hall. Additional information is available at: http://www.meredith.edu/finaid/
Counseling services are provided via the Counseling Center, 202 Carroll. Additional information about their services can be found at: http://www.meredith.edu/students/counsel/
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Grievance procedures. Students who are experiencing academic problems either with a grade or other conditions of the course should first discuss the matter with the course professor. It is the professor’s responsibility to explain fully all grades and requirements of the course. If the problem is not resolved, the student or professor should consult the department head. Should further action be required, the matter should be brought to the dean of the school. Any grievance concerning a grade that has not been satisfactorily resolved by the teacher, the department head, or the dean may be appealed to the Associate Vice President for Academic Programs as noted on page 46 of the 2010-2011 Undergraduate Meredith College catalog, available online at http://www.meredith.edu/registrar/
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Disciplinary/termination procedures. Students are required to follow the Meredith College Honor Code which is described in the Student Handbook and on the College website at http://www.meredith.edu/students/honor-system.htm.
The website includes information regarding violations, penalties, and appeals.
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Assessment of Prior Learning. The DPD program at Meredith College does not accept prior experience in lieu of coursework. Prior coursework must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar and the DPD Director for review. A prospective student will be notified of courses that will transfer and be provided with a plan of coursework required to complete the Meredith DPD requirements. For students with education, training and credentials completed outside of the United States and its territories, the first step is to have your academic degree validated as equivalent to the bachelor's or master's degree conferred by a US regionally-accredited college or university. The Commission on Dietetic Registration-approved nonprofit agencies that perform this specialized service are listed on the ADA webpage: http://eatright.org/ Contact an agency for current information, procedure and costs. A detailed transcript evaluation will be the most useful for the DPD Director. The DPD Director will evaluate your previous academic preparation and identify the courses you will need to meet the didactic program requirements.
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Email/Nutrition Blackboard: All students must have a Meredith College email address to participate in the Nutrition Program Blackboard. If you are not receiving emails from the Program, please contact Technology Services for a College email address. Your Meredith College email address is used to provide information to you regarding courses, semester reminders, volunteer and work opportunities, and meetings.
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Are there other requirements for the Dietetics Program?
All students are required to complete a personal professional portfolio as a course requirement in FN 480 Colloquium, in Spring of their senior year. Throughout their DPD course work, students should keep files that include: honors, awards and scholarships; representations of assignments, including handouts developed, papers, etc.; community service projects; and records of volunteer and work experience.
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What if I already have a Bachelor’s degree in another area?
If you already have a BS,BSW, or BA, you will still need to complete all required undergraduate (didactic) courses in Dietetics to pursue a career as a Registered Dietitian, or RD. You will be required to complete foundation, knowledge, and skills as established by CADE, as a post-baccalaureate (i.e. post-bac) student. Upon successful completion of those courses, you will be issued a verification statement and you will be able to apply for dietetic internships with other students who are receiving their first bachelor’s degree. Admission as a post baccalaureate student is limited by available space in the required courses.
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What are the characteristics of a successful DPD student?
- Good time management skills
- Deals effectively with stress
- Self-discipline
- Pro-active
- Self-starter
- Flexible
- Goal-oriented
- Leadership ability
- Committed to the profession
- Integrity
- Team player
- Adaptable
- Ability to prioritize
- Organizational skills
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Volunteer and work experience
- Good grades
- Critical thinker
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Is it important to get work or volunteer experience in the dietetics field?
In order to learn about the field of dietetics and to strengthen your application for a dietetic internship, it is strongly recommended that you work or volunteer in dietetics related areas. You can do this during the summer or the school year. You are encouraged to contact local dietitians and request a volunteer experience. Opportunities for volunteer experiences are also sent via campus email. You should keep a record of your hours and experience for both your portfolio and your internship application.
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Why should I join the Meredith Nutrition and Wellness Association (MNWA)?
The MNWA is a student run organization for students majoring, or just interested, in food and nutrition. Meetings are monthly (day and time are subject to change). The membership fee is $10.00 per year (also subject to change). Many interesting topics related to nutrition and food science are discussed at meetings. Presentations given by area professionals introduce students to the varied career opportunities in dietetics. Dietetics related volunteer and work experiences also are announced in these meetings. The MNWA participates actively in community programs including the Meals on Wheels, the Interfaith Food Shuttle, Urban Ministries, the Poe Center, and Eat Smart Move More NC initiatives. MNWA members also conduct fundraising and volunteer many hours to local charities and community organizations. Past volunteer activities have included food preparation and service at local soup kitchens, delivery of Meals on Wheels to area elderly, development of community gardens, donation of food to shelters for homeless people and abused women and children, and educational presentations on nutrition to local school children. Information about the field of nutrition is provided and you also get a chance to make new friends and practicing dietitians. The Raleigh District Dietetics Association (RDDA) holds meetings on campus to encourage student participation. The MNWA joins with the RDDA in sponsoring mentoring events for practitioners and students. Being a MNWA officer or committee chair is an excellent leadership opportunity. We encourage all students to run for an elected position, serve on Club committees, and/or participate in other Club activities. For more information about the Association or its activities and programs, attend the MNWA meetings, go to the Student
Life Office, second floor Cate Center or check out their website (http://www.meredith.edu/students/activities/organizations.htm).
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What about Scholarships?
There are scholarship opportunities available through the American Dietetic Association and the North Carolina Dietetic Association Foundation for student members of these organizations. For information about ADA/NCDAD scholarships and eligibility, contact the ADA (www.eatright.org) or the NCDAF (www.eatrightnc.org). Application forms for these scholarships are available online at the Associations’ websites.
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Where do I get advising?
Once you have completed a Declaration of Major form and submitted it to the Nutrition, Health, and Human Performance Department Head, you will be assigned an advisor from the Food and Nutrition faculty. They will provide assistance in planning a schedule of required courses. Your faculty advisor will provide information about professional organizations, work and volunteer opportunities, and planning for the future. You should plan to schedule at least one advising appointment with an advisor each semester.
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After receiving my BS degree in dietetics from Meredith College, will I be a Registered Dietitian?
No!
- Completion of a DPD like the Meredith College program is the first step to becoming a Registered Dietitian.
- The second step, completion of an accredited supervised practice program (dietetic internship), follows the completion of the Didactic Program and the minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. There are currently two types of supervised practice programs: Accredited Dietetic Internships (DI), and Accredited Coordinated Programs. You need to be well informed that receiving an appointment to a supervised practice program is very competitive, and there are no guarantees that any one student will receive an appointment.
- The third and final step to becoming an RD is successful completion of the National Registration Examination for Dietitians.
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What are the differences between a Dietetic Internship (DI) and a
Coordinated Program?
A Dietetic Internship provides a minimum of 1200 hours of supervised practice and follows completion of at least a baccalaureate degree and ADA minimum academic requirements in an accredited DPD. Some programs may be part-time and may be completed within a two-year period. A dietetic internship may range from 6 months to 2 years; a 6 month program would meet the ADA minimum requirements of 900 hours, while a two year internship would include a Master’s degree with the dietetic internship. A Coordinated Program integrates academic requirements with supervised practice within an academic program. In other words, at the completion of a Coordinated Program, students will have finished both the coursework and the supervised practice necessary to become a Registered Dietitian. Each program is accredited by CADE and culminates in a minimum of a baccalaureate degree. These programs provide opportunities for achieving the knowledge and performance requirements through an integrated program. Some Coordinated Programs accept students who already have a baccalaureate degree. For most of these programs, DPD graduates will participate mainly in the supervised practice component, but may have to repeat some coursework.
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How do I prove that I’ve completed my BS degree if I’m applying for a DI Program before I graduate?
When you apply to supervised practice programs, the Meredith College DPD Director will provide you with a “Declaration of Intent to Complete” form. You will send this form to the programs to which you are applying along with your other application materials. It serves as temporary “proof” that you’re on your way to completing the undergraduate program. Once you have actually graduated, the Director will provide you with original signed copies of the “Verification Statement.” This form is your final proof that you did indeed complete the DPD, and it will only be issued to you after your graduation and you have submitted all transcripts of coursework for DPD courses and transcript indicating awarding of bachelor’s degree. It is not unusual for supervised practice programs to receive verification forms after students have already started their program, so don’t worry if you graduate right before you begin your internship.
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Do DIs offer graduate courses?
Internships vary from no graduate hours to a combined Master’s/Dietetic Internship. Students who are interested in graduate programs should research available options. Meredith College offers a Graduate credit for coursework taken during the dietetic internship. Emphasis areas include general, research, and sports nutrition. The Meredith College Dietetic Internship program’s website: (http://www.meredith.edu/graduate/di/default.htm ) provides the prospective student with detailed information on the DI. If you have further questions, contact Cathie Ostrowski, MS, RD, the Program Director (919.769.8419 or ostrowsk@meredith.edu).
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Where can I obtain more information about supervised practice programs?
The American Dietetic Association website (www.eatright.org) provides the most up-to-date information about the programs. If you go to http://www.eatright.org/cade, there is a listing of each program and information on costs, length of internship, internship director, and area of specialization. Another resource is the Applicant Guide to Supervised Practice Experience, a valuable tool that describes many of the experience programs that are available. The Guide provides detailed information such as the usual number of applications received by individual programs and answers to frequently asked questions. This Guide is available for review in the office of the DPD Director. A workshop is offered during the fall semester by the DPD Director to provide students with valuable information about the internship application process. The workshop covers the internship application process including how to submit information for Letters of Intent and Verification statements. Students are required to attend the workshop their senior year if they intend to apply for dietetic internship programs.
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How much does a supervised practice program cost?
Costs vary widely, so you should check with each program about required expenses. Most accredited DIs associated with regionally accredited university graduate programs qualify for government sponsored loan programs. You should contact the individual internship’s website to see if financial aid is available at a specific Dietetic Internship. Numerous scholarship and loan opportunities are available to help pay the costs of the supervised practice experience, including dietetic practice groups and state dietetic foundations.
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What are the characteristics of a successful applicant for supervised practice programs?
Being a successful applicant to a dietetic internship starts long before you fill out application forms. Although programs may have varying selection criteria, applicants who receive appointments to supervised practice programs tend to have the following characteristics:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (although a 3.2 or higher is recommended)
- A 3.0 GPA or higher in professional courses
- A 3.0 GPA or higher in biological and physical sciences
- Significant paid or volunteer nutrition or food-related work experience
- Strong letters of recommendation
In addition to these characteristics leadership in organizations and willingness to relocate are also important.
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How can I improve my chances of being admitted to a supervised practice program?
A student has no guarantee of receiving a DI appointment. In April of 2007, 59% of the students participating in the national computer match received a match. Internships continue to become more competitive. In order to increase your chances for an appointment, you should:
Investigate programs early to identify their admission criteria.
Maintain a grade point average over 3.0 (although 3.2 or higher is more realistic)
Get dietetics related work or volunteer experience (Hospital experience is considered valuable, as are foodservice, and community nutrition program experience.
Participate in activities that demonstrate leadership (college clubs, sports, community service projects..
Get to know dietetics faculty members through faculty office hours, MNWA, or independent study. You will need letters of recommendations from them.
Apply to more than one program, but not an excessive number. (Successful applicants apply to an average of 3-4 programs).
Be flexible and willing to relocate. Explore programs outside of Raleigh!!
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What is the timeline for applying to Dietetic Internships?
Freshman/Sophomore Year
Maintain good grades
- Become active in organizations or community activities; join MNWA
- Join the American Dietetic Association (Only students who are ADA members are
eligible for scholarships and awards)
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Obtain dietetics-related work or volunteer experience
Junior Year
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Begin reviewing the ADA website and the Applicant Guide to Supervised Practice Experience to select internships that interest you
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Attend orientation open houses for dietetic internships that interest you
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Attend Supervised Practice Experience Planning workshop in the Fall semester
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Get to know the DPD Director (you will want them to write a good letter of recommendation!)
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Get to know FN faculty (Remember, you need three letters of recommendation for your application!!)
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Get dietetics-related volunteer or paid work experience
Get involved in activities in the MNWA – run for office or chair a committee!
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Continue student membership in ADA
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Actively participate in Raleigh District Dietetic Association (RDDA) and NC Dietetic Association (NCDA) events
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Maintain good grades
Senior Year
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Email or write dietetic internships for additional information and application
Maintain good grades
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Get even more involved in the MNWA
Continue student membership in ADA
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Continue involvement with the Raleigh District Dietetic Association (RDDA) and NC Dietetic Association (NCDA)
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Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
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Attend Supervised Practice Experience Planning workshop in the Fall (mandatory in order to obtain information regarding process of obtaining Letter of Intent and Verification Statement)
- Select 3-4 internships that match your interests and qualifications
- Check deadlines and apply on time – usually mid-February (but can be earlier so be sure to check the deadlines)
- Appointment match date – April
- If you match in April – Congratulations!!!
- If not, then:
- See a DPD Director for alternatives
- Keep trying to match in the post-match period from April to August (not all programs fill their classes during the match)
- Continue to get experience if necessary
- Apply for internships again for the Fall match (deadline in September) for November appointment date (DI usually begins in January)
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What’s this “computer matching” thing all about?
Most supervised practice programs participate in computer matching. At the time of application, you will submit a computer card that ranks in order of preference those programs to which you are applying. DI programs do the same; however, they are ranking applicants. A computer matches DIs to applicants based on those rankings. Computer matching cards are available from the Program Director prior to each application period, and there is a fee for computer matching. Ask the Program Director for more information.
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Common application
“To learn more about the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System (DICAS) click here for a video clip:” http://www.eatright.org/students/education/internships.aspx
”DIETETIC INTERNSHIP CENTRALIZED DIETETIC APPLICATION SYSTEM” https://portal.dicas.org
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What do I do if I don’t receive a DI appointment?
When students submit an application to a Dietetic Internship program, they need to realize that the selection process is very competitive, and a strong application packet does not guarantee a match to an internship program. The applicant pool is national, and you are in competition with many other students across the country. If you do not receive an appointment in the match, you should see the Program Director about available internship programs that might have openings. You should also allow your name to be published on the list of applicants who did not match – it can increase your chances of matching even after the computer match is over! It is still possible to obtain an internship in the post-match period, although it does require an additional application process. If you are still not successful, you should begin to re-evaluate your credentials, identifying strengths and weaknesses (which we all have!) and think about ways to better highlight those strengths and improve those weaknesses.
- Evaluate how you can improve your qualifications
- Look at additional dietetic internship Programs
- Obtain a job related to nutrition/dietetics
- Reapply
Students who didn’t match should contact the DPD Director immediately to discuss the situation and plan for future matches. The dietetics advisors in the FSHN Department are interested in and concerned about students and can be very helpful in providing support. Don’t give up, there are alternatives! Persistent, qualified applicants nearly always find placement.
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After completing a supervised practice program, what do I do next?
You must apply to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians. Candidates for the RD exam take their exam on the computer at one of more than 200 Thomson Prometric (formerly Sylvan) testing centers around the country. The exam can be scheduled following completion of the registration eligibility application procedure, which is discussed in the supervised practice program. The exam is approximately three hours long and includes questions in food and nutrition, nutrition services (community and clinical), education and research, foodservice systems and management. Upon successful completion of the exam, and notification by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), you will be a Registered Dietitian, RD.
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What is a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LD/N)?
Some states require that dietitians be licensed by a State Licensing Board to be able to practice dietetics. In many states the requirements for licensure are similar to those for dietetic registration. North Carolina requires a license for practice (see website for more information: http://www.ncbdn.org/). If you are planning to practice in another state, you should contact the state dietetic association to see if there are licensure/certification requirements.
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What is a Dietetic Technician, Registered(DTR)? http://www.eatright.org/CADE/
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What should I know about professional associations?
The American Dietetic Association (ADA) The ADA is the nation’s largest professional organization for dietitians. Students enrolled in an accredited dietetics program have the opportunity to become a student member of the organization. Benefits of membership include:
- The Journal of the American Dietetic Association (JADA)
- ADA’s Members–only website, which includes access to the Evidence Analysis Library
- Student Center with information about career planning, student news, and a listserv
- Continuing education programs and materials
- Professional publications
- Member discounts on publications and merchandise
- Annual meeting discounts
- Dietetics practice groups
- Membership in state dietetic association
- Job announcements
- Scholarship opportunities
The most important advantages to ADA student members are the eligibility for ADA-sponsored scholarships, the journal, networking, and the chance to improve your marketability. You get all of this for a very small annual fee – the membership fee is $50.00 for 2010-2011. The FN faculty strongly encourages you to join. To be a student member of the American Dietetic Association, you must complete a membership application card and submit the dues payment. Information and applications are available on the ADA website at :
http://www.eatright.org/students/join/
Scholarships to defray program costs are available for qualified students through the American Dietetic Association.
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The North Carolina Dietetic Association (www.eatrightnc.org).
The North Carolina Dietetic Association is North Carolina’s professional organization for dietitians. Students who are ADA student members are automatically members of the State Association. Some advantages include:
- Newsletters and publications
- Annual meeting discounts
- Scholarship opportunities
- Networking and more
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The Raleigh District Dietetic Association (www.eatrightnc.org) The Raleigh
District Dietetic Association (RDDA) is Raleigh’s professional organization for dietitians. You are encouraged to join to get to know local dietitians. This provides great opportunities for networking and mentoring. The student membership fee is $10.00 per year. Some of the advantages include:
- E-newsletter
- Educational programs
- Networking
- Leadership opportunities
- Involvement in community
- Committee assignments
- Awards
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What are my options if I’m not interested in becoming an RD?
A degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition with a specialization in dietetics provides a strong knowledge base in the sciences, including nutrition, as well as communication, problem solving and teamwork skills. Graduates can pursue careers in nutrition education (through WIC), sales (including pharmaceutical, food and equipment sales), product development, foodservice management and public policy or health fields.
Graduate school is another option to consider after graduation. There are many Master’s degree programs in nutrition, health science education, business and communication. You should take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) if you are interested in graduate school.
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Contacts and Resources
Meredith College Nutrition Health and Human Performance Department -Important Contacts
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| Dr. Susan Fisher, DPD Director |
138 Martin Hall 919.760.8079 |
fishers@meredith.edu |
| Dr. William Landis, Faculty/Advisor |
132 Martin Hall 919.760.2355 |
landisb@meredith.edu |
| Ms. Nealie Tebb; MS Nutrition Recruiter |
134 Martin Hall 919.760.8735 |
tebbjenn@meredith.edu |
| Dr. Chris Escbach, Dept. Chair, NHHP |
101 Weatherspoon 919.760.8014 |
eschbach@meredith.edu |
| Dr. Marie Chamblee, Dean, School of Ed, Health & Human Sciences |
140 Martin Hall 919.760.8311 |
chambleem@meredith.edu |
| Dr. Elizabeth Wolfinger, VP Academic Planning and Programs |
104 Johnson Hall 919.760.8514 |
wolfingere@meredith.edu |
| Dr. Maureen Hartford, President |
220 Johnson Hall 919.760.8511 |
hartfordm@meredith.edu |
Web Resources
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| American Academy of Nutritional Sciences |
www.nutrition.org |
| American Diabetes Association |
www.diabetes.org |
| American Dietetic Association |
www.eatright.org |
| American Heart Association |
www.americanheart.org |
| American Public Health Association |
www.apha.org |
| Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition |
www.cfsan.fda.gov/list.html |
| Dietetics Online |
www.dietetics.com |
| 5 a Day for Better Health Program |
www.5aday.gov |
| North Carolina Dietetic Association |
www.eatrightnc.org |
| Food and Nutrition Information Center |
www.nal.usda.gov/fnic |
| RDDA |
www.eatrightnc.org |
| Graduate Record Examination |
www.gre.org |
| International Food Information Council |
www.ific.org |
| MEDLINE |
www.nlm.nih.gov |
| U.S. Department of Agriculture |
www.usda.gov |
| Meredith College Food and Nutrition Program |
www.meredith.edu/nhhp/default.htm |
| Meredith College MS/DI Program |
http://meredith.edu/graduate/nutrition/ms/become_an_rd.php |
| U.S. Government Nutrition Information |
www.nutrition.gov
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APPENDIX
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COMMISSION ON ACCREDITATION FOR DIETETICS EDUCATION AMERICAN DIETETIC ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS AND COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRYLEVEL DIETITIANS
Individuals interested in becoming Registered Dietitians should expect to study a wide variety of topics focusing on food, nutrition, and management. These areas are supported by the sciences: biological, physiological, behavioral, social, and communication. Becoming a dietitian involves a combination of academic preparation, including a minimum of a baccalaureate degree, and a supervised practice component. The following foundation knowledge and skill requirements are listed in the eight areas that students will focus on in the academic component of a dietetics program. Foundation learning includes knowledge of a topic as it applies to the profession of dietetics, and the ability to demonstrate the skill at a level that can be developed further. To successfully achieve the foundation knowledge and skills, graduates must demonstrate the ability to communicate and collaborate, solve problems, and apply critical thinking skills.
These requirements may be met through separate courses, combined into one course, or as part of several courses as determined by the college or university sponsoring a program accredited or approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association.
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Foundation Knowledge Requirements and Learning Outcomes for DPDs
1.Scientific and Evidence Base of Practice: integration of scientific information and research into practice
Knowledge Requirement
KR 1.1 The curriculum must reflect the scientific basis of the dietetics profession and must include research methodology, interpretation of research literature and integration of research principles into evidence-based practice.
KR 1.1.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to demonstrate how to locate, interpret, evaluate and use professional literature to make ethical evidence-based practice decisions.
KR 1.1.b Learning Outcome: Students are able to use current information technologies to locate and apply evidence-based guidelines and protocols, such as the ADA Evidence Analysis Library, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, National Guideline Clearinghouse Web sites.
2. Professional Practice Expectations: beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors for the professional dietitian level of practice.
2.Professional Practice Expectations: beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors for the professional dietitian level of practice.
Knowledge Requirement
KR 2.1 The curriculum must include opportunities to develop a variety of communication skills sufficient for entry into pre-professional practice.
KR 2.1.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to demonstrate effective and professional oral and written communication and documentation and use of current information technologies when communicating with individuals, groups and the public.
KR 2.1.b Learning Outcome: Students are able to demonstrate assertiveness, advocacy and negotiation skills appropriate to the situation.
KR 2.2 The curriculum must provide principles and techniques of effective counseling methods.
KR 2.2.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to demonstrate counseling techniques to facilitate behavior change.
KR 2.3 The curriculum must include opportunities to understand governance of dietetics practice, such as the ADA Scope of Dietetics Practice Framework, the Standards of Professional Performance and the Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics; and interdisciplinary relationships in various practice settings.
KR 2.3.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to locate, understand and apply established guidelines to a professional practice scenario.
KR 2.3.b Learning Outcome: Students are able to identify and describe the roles of others with whom the Registered Dietitian collaborates in the delivery of food and nutrition services.
3.Clinical and Customer Services: development and delivery of information, products and services to individuals, groups and populations
Knowledge Requirement
KR 3.1 The curriculum must reflect the nutrition care process and include the principles and methods of assessment, diagnosis, identification and implementation of interventions and strategies for monitoring and evaluation.
KR 3.1.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to use the nutrition care process to make decisions, to identify nutrition-related problems and determine and evaluate nutrition interventions, including medical nutrition therapy, disease prevention and health promotion.
KR 3.2 The curriculum must include the role of environment, food, nutrition and lifestyle choices in health promotion and disease prevention.
KR 3.2.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to apply knowledge of the role of environment, food and lifestyle choices to develop interventions to affect change and enhance wellness in diverse individuals and groups.
KR 3.3 The curriculum must include education and behavior change theories and techniques.
KR 3.3.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to develop an educational session or program/ educational strategy for a target population.
4.Practice Management and Use of Resources: strategic application of principles of management and systems in the provision of services to individuals and organizations
Knowledge Requirement
KR 4.1 The curriculum must include management and business theories and principles required to deliver programs and services.
KR 4.1.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to apply management and business theories and principles to the development, marketing and delivery of programs or services.
KR 4.1.b Learning Outcome: Students are able to determine costs of services or operations, prepare a budget and interpret financial data.
KR 4.1.c Learning Outcome: Students are able to apply the principles of human resource management to different situations.
KR 4.2 The curriculum must include content related to quality management of food and nutrition services.
KR 4.2.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to apply safety principles related to food, personnel and consumers.
KR 4.2.b Learning Outcome: Students are able to develop outcome measures, use informatics principles and technology to collect and analyze data for assessment and evaluate data to use in decision-making.
KR 4.3 The curriculum must include the fundamentals of public policy, including the legislative and regulatory basis of dietetics practice.
KR 4.3.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to explain the impact of a public policy position on dietetics practice.
KR 4.4 The curriculum must include content related to health care systems.
KR 4.4.a Learning Outcome: Students are able to explain the impact of health care policy and administration, different health care delivery systems and current reimbursement issues, policies and regulations on food and nutrition services.
5.Support Knowledge: knowledge underlying the requirements specified above.
Knowledge Requirement
SK 5.1 The food and food systems foundation of the dietetics profession must be evident in the curriculum. Course content must include the principles of food science and food systems, techniques of food preparation and application to the development, modification and evaluation of recipes, menus and food products acceptable to diverse groups.
SK 5.2 The physical and biological science foundation of the dietetics profession must be evident in the curriculum. Course content must include organic chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, microbiology, pharmacology, statistics, nutrient metabolism, and nutrition across the lifespan.
SK 5.3 The behavioral and social science foundation of the dietetics profession must be evident in the curriculum. Course content must include concepts of human behavior and diversity, such as psychology, sociology or anthropology.
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