MS in Nutrition & Dietetic Practice/RDN Program
Program Overview
Thomas Jefferson University's MS in Nutrition & Dietetic Practice/RDN Program prepares students to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). Emphasizing interprofessional practice, sustainability, and equity, the program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to address health disparities and promote social justice. Upon completion, graduates will be eligible to take the national RDN exam and embark on careers in diverse practice settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Thomas Jefferson University MS in Nutrition & Dietetic Practice/RDN Program is a new and innovative graduate program designed to prepare students to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs). Upon completion, graduates will be awarded an MS degree in Nutrition & Dietetic Practice and will be eligible to take the national RDN exam.
Program Mission Statement, Goals & Objectives:
The program's mission is to provide an educational experience that prepares caring, competent, entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists for practice in diverse settings. The program emphasizes interprofessional practice, sustainability, and equity, inspiring graduates to engage in lifelong learning and social justice advocacy.
Program Goals:
- Goal 1: Program graduates will be competent, highly qualified entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists who are well prepared to work in interdisciplinary teams and in a variety of practice settings.
- Goal 2: Program graduates will engage in social justice advocacy and activities that promote social, professional, and/or environmental sustainability.
Objectives:
- Goal 1 Objectives:
- At least 80% of program graduates complete program/degree requirements within 2.5 years (150% of the program length).
- At least 90% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
- At least 90% of alumni survey respondents rate themselves as “prepared” or “very prepared” to be a competent, professional, entry-level, registered dietitian nutritionist in their employment setting.
- At least 90% of alumni survey respondents rate themselves as “prepared” or “very prepared” to work as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
- 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%.
- Of graduates who seek employment, at least 90% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
- At least 90% of employers who complete a survey on program graduates report that the graduate “meets” or “exceeds” expectations for entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists in terms of professional knowledge and interprofessional skills.
- Goal 2 Objectives:
- At least 80% of graduate survey respondents report engaging in at least one social justice leadership or active service effort within three years of program completion.
- At least 80% of graduate survey respondents report engaging in at least one effort that promotes social, professional, and/or environmental sustainability within three years of program completion. The Thomas Jefferson University MS in Nutrition & Dietetic Practice/RDN Program has been granted candidacy for accreditation status by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Other:
- The program emphasizes keystone aspects of dietetic practice: communication, interprofessional practice, sustainability, leadership, management, and research.
- Students will be trained to look beyond the disease and see the whole person.
- Students will be required to examine the disparities in our healthcare system and consider how RDNs can help combat these inequities.
- The program aims to provide the community with masters-prepared registered dietitian nutritionists who apply critical thinking and evidence-based nutrition information in an ethical, responsible, and collaborative manner.
- The program engages in fair and open conduct that enhances student, faculty, and preceptor morale.
Thomas Jefferson University
Overview:
Thomas Jefferson University is a private, non-profit research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is known for its strong focus on healthcare and its commitment to innovation and research. The university has a long history, celebrating its bicentennial in 2024, and has a reputation for preparing students for successful careers in various fields.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Providing guidance and support to students in choosing courses, majors, and career paths.Career Services:
Assisting students with job searching, resume writing, and interview preparation.Financial Aid:
Offering scholarships, grants, and loans to help students finance their education.Housing:
Providing on-campus housing options for students at both the Center City and East Falls campuses.Library Services:
Access to extensive library resources, including books, journals, databases, and research support.Student Life:
Organizing various clubs, organizations, and events to enhance the student experience.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Thomas Jefferson University can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Athletics:
Participating in intercollegiate sports as part of the Jefferson Rams.Student Organizations:
Joining clubs and organizations based on interests, such as academic, cultural, or social groups.Campus Events:
Attending various events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.Philadelphia Experience:
Exploring the rich cultural and historical offerings of Philadelphia, a major city with numerous attractions.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in healthcare, science, and technology.Research Opportunities:
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work alongside renowned faculty.Industry Connections:
The university has strong ties to industry partners, providing students with internship and job opportunities.Global Focus:
The university emphasizes global perspectives and offers study abroad programs to broaden student horizons.Bicentennial Legacy:
The university's long history and commitment to excellence provide a unique and enriching learning environment.Academic Programs:
Thomas Jefferson University is home to several colleges and schools, including:
Sidney Kimmel Medical College:
A leading medical school known for its research and clinical training.College of Architecture & The Built Environment:
Offering programs in architecture, urban design, and real estate.Kanbar College of Design, Engineering & Commerce:
Providing programs in design, engineering, business, and fashion.College of Health Professions:
Offering programs in various health professions, such as nursing, pharmacy, and rehabilitation sciences.College of Humanities & Sciences:
Offering programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.College of Life Sciences:
Offering programs in biology, chemistry, and other life sciences.College of Nursing:
Offering programs in nursing, including undergraduate and graduate degrees.College of Pharmacy:
Offering programs in pharmacy, including PharmD and PhD degrees.College of Population Health:
Offering programs in public health, health policy, and health management.College of Rehabilitation Sciences:
Offering programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology.Other:
- The university has two main campuses: Center City and East Falls.
- Thomas Jefferson University is affiliated with Jefferson Health, a large healthcare system in the Philadelphia area.
- The university is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.
- The university has a strong alumni network, providing support and connections to graduates.
The provided context does not include information on the following sections:
