Dietetics Major

There are three options within the Dietetics major: (a) Dietitian Education Program, (b) Didactic Program, and (c) the Accelerated BS/MS in Dietetics and Nutrition. All programs include all didactic courses required to be accredited by the The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Only graduates of ACEND-accredited programs are eligible to take the exam to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR).

Students with a major in Dietetics are employed in many settings such as hospitals, clinics, community health programs, businesses, industries, school food services, and as consultants in homes for the elderly and other service institutions. Research and development opportunities are available in industry, government, and universities; in regulation of food quality through government agencies; and within companies as communication specialists.

Note: Transfer credits in dietetics or food and nutrition from other institutions must have grades of 'C' or better to be accepted for the Dietetics program at NDSU.

Dietitian Education Program (DEP) Option

This option prepares professional dietetic practitioners for work in entry-level positions in hospitals, nursing homes, out-patient clinics, businesses, and community agencies. Students in the Dietitian Education Program will complete 1,200 supervised practice hours as part of the undergraduate curriculum allowing them to take the registration examination upon graduation. The Dietitian Education Program has a gerontology concentration to train students on the health concerns of the aging population.

Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) Option

This option meets the requirements for entrance into an accredited dietetic internship and prepares graduates for internships in hospitals, as well as in health care related organizations. After earning the BS in dietetics, graduates will need to complete the 1200 supervised practice hours (internship) in order to be eligible to take the registration exam for dietitians.

Acceptance into either Dietetics program is competitive and enrollment is limited. Students who have completed the prerequisite courses apply for admission in February. The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredits both program options.

Accelerated BS/MS in Dietetics and Nutrition

In 2024, the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics will require students to hold Bachelor's and Master's degree, as well as completing 1200 hours of supervised practice, in order to be eligible to take the Registration Exam for Dietitians. The Accelerated BS/MS in Dietetics and Nutrition is a comprehensive program that includes all 3 components and will allow students to earn their eligibility for registration in just 5 years. Students earn a B.S. in Dietetics (after year 4), an M.S. in Exercise Science & Nutrition (after year 5), and earn 1492.5 hours of supervised practice (by the end of year 5). Admission to the program does not require the GRE, but students will have to apply to the graduate school for acceptance.