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Introduction to the Dietetics Specialization

The Dietetics specialization is designed for individuals who aim to promote health through nutritious and safe food. This program offers a balanced curriculum, including courses in biological, physical, and social sciences, as well as food and nutrition courses taught by expert faculty.

Program Overview

The Dietetics specialization provides students with learning experiences that challenge them to apply their nutrition knowledge and skills to real-world situations. Students also have opportunities to learn about the profession of dietetics from local practitioners and receive personalized academic guidance from professional advisors.

Becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

To become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), students must complete the following steps:

1. Undergraduate Coursework: Complete the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) curriculum, which includes a variety of courses selected to meet the standards established by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
2. Graduate Level Coursework: As of January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetics Registration (CDR) requires a minimum of a master's degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become an RDN.
3. Supervised Practice: Complete a supervised practice experience in an ACEND-accredited program, providing a minimum of 1,000 hours of learning experience.
4. Credentialing Exam: Take the Commission of Dietetic Registration's credentialing exam to obtain the RDN credential.
5. Licensure: In Nevada, practicing RDNs must also be licensed by the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health.

Accreditation

The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at the University of Nevada, Reno is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Important Resources for Prospective and Current Students

• Admission requirements: Applying and being accepted to the University of Nevada, Reno allows students to pursue the Bachelor of Science Nutrition-Dietetics Specialization. There is no additional application process.
• Tuition and fees: Established by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents. In addition to tuition and fees, students can expect to spend approximately $800/year for textbooks.
• Housing and Dining rates: Vary by hall, occupancy, and meal plan.
• Academic calendar: All important dates and deadlines are available in the online academic calendar.
• Financial aid: Available, and students can contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships for help.
• DPD Handbook: Graduation and program completion requirements, and other important information regarding the program, can be found in the handbook.

Assessing Prior Learning

Transferring credits: The university accepts various types of coursework and credits.

Mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics

The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) aims to effectively prepare students for accredited supervised practice programs leading to eligibility for the CDR credentialing exam to become registered dietitian nutritionists, for graduate programs, and/or for entry-level employment in nutrition and dietetics. The program fosters life-long learning in the pursuit of excellence and a commitment to improving the nutritional health of diverse local and global communities through evidence-based policies and practices.

DPD Program Goals and Objectives

Program Goal 1: Program Graduates Preparation

Objectives for Goal 1:

1. At least 80% of program students complete program requirements within 3 years (150% of planned program length).
2. At least 40% of program graduates apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
3. Of program graduates who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 75% are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
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%.
5. Supervised practice program directors will rate program graduates' preparation for supervised practice as satisfactory on at least 75% of the knowledge and learning outcomes.

Program Goal 2: Improving Nutritional Health

Objectives for Goal 2:

1. At least 70% of program graduates who complete the Graduate Survey will express self-efficacy regarding their ability to improve the nutritional health of diverse communities.
2. At least 70% of program graduates who complete the Graduate Survey will express satisfaction with the inclusion of professionalism and ethics in their nutrition courses.

Faculty Advisors for Dietetics Students

• Karon Felten: Last names A-H
• Jolyn Wirshing: Last names I-N
• Maureen Molini: Last names O-S
• David St-Jules: Last names T-Z

Conclusion

The Dietetics specialization at the University of Nevada, Reno, offers a comprehensive education in nutrition and dietetics, preparing students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and other roles in the field. With its accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics and commitment to excellence, the program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in their future careers.