Program Overview

Program Mission, Goals, and Outcomes

The Simmons Dietetic Internship Program aims to prepare interns to be competent, ethical entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. The program's mission is to build on evidence-based research and standards of practice and professional performance to provide nutritional care, health promotion, and disease prevention that is culturally and economically sensitive. Graduates will develop an appreciation for lifelong learning to increase knowledge and enhance professional development.

Program Goals

The Simmons Dietetic Internship Program has two primary goals:

Program Goal #1

Graduates will be prepared for a career using their intellectual and clinical skills to competently function as entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.

• Objective 1: 80% of program graduates will take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
• Objective 2: 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 will be at least 80%.
• Objective 3: Of graduates who seek employment, at least 80% will be employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
• Objective 4: At least 80% of employers will rate graduates as superior or strong in nutritional knowledge and professional skills compared with other entry-level dietetics professionals.
• Objective 5:
  • For the DI Program, at least 80% of program students will complete the program requirements within 12 months (150% of planned program length).
  • For the MSDI Program, at least 80% of program students will complete the program requirements within 31.5 months (150% of planned program length).
• Objective 6: 100% of graduates will rate themselves as being at least adequately prepared for the nutrition-related aspects of the position.

Program Goal #2

Graduates will be prepared as entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists to participate in continuous learning and professional development activities and exhibit leadership.

• Objective 1: 80% of graduates seeking acceptance to graduate programs in place of employment will enroll within 6 months of program completion.
• Objective 2: 50% of graduates will indicate that they exhibit leadership skills by being actively involved in a professional organization or by implementing initiatives in their employment.

Program Outcomes

Program outcomes data are available upon request.