Dietetics (M.S.)

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Program Coordinator/Contact

Elizabeth Droke, Associate Professor, PhD, RDN
Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences
Wagner Hall 433, Box 2275A
605-688-5150

Program Information

Dietetics prepares Registered Dietitian Nutritionists to practice dietetics at an advanced level and/or pursue doctoral study. The program seeks to develop research skills, stimulate independent thought, and provide up-to-date knowledge in foods, nutrition, and food service/business management. This program prepares individuals to integrate and apply the principles ranging from the biomedical sciences, human behavior, and management to design, and to lead effective food, nutrition, health and wellness programs in a variety of settings. This online program will be a degree tailored for credentialed, practicing dietetics professionals who seek to enhance their knowledge in a specific area of dietetics practice or to retool for new career opportunities in dietetics practice. The student must already have the RDN credential. This degree does not prepare one to become a RDN.

Student Learning Outcomes

Foundational knowledge: Apply foundational knowledge and skills in the theory and application of nutrition and dietetics sciences to professional practice, education, and research. (Transferable Skill: Career Preparedness)
Communication skills: Develop effective written and oral communication skills. (Communication Skills)
Critical thinking: Critically analyze and synthesize scientific evidence to defend a position. (Communication Skills; Transferable Skill: Intellectual Traits; Career Preparedness)
Career preparedness: Demonstrate effective career preparedness. (Transferable Skill: Career Preparedness)

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lecture, laboratory, and experiential learning opportunities delivered online.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences aims to provide premier academic programs and high-quality services to students.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	36 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	36 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	36 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

NUTR 734 - Research Methods in Dietetics Credits: 3
NUTR 735 - Current Trends in Dietetics Practices Credits: 3
NUTR 760 - Vitamins and Minerals in Human Nutrition Credits: 3
STAT 541 - Statistical Methods II Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

HNS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (6 credits required)
Electives Credits: 18

Option B - Research/Design Paper

HNS 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 21

Option C - Coursework Only

Requires a comprehensive written exam
Electives Credits: 24

Total Required Credits: 36 (Option A, B, & C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: required score of 550 paper-based, 79-80 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0

Students must have completed a BS or BA from an Accreditation Counsel for Education of Nutrition and Dietetics) accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics and submit the ACEND Verification statement as documentation.
Letter of application stating the following: reasons for attending graduate school; long-term goals outlining career goals; primary area of interest for capstone/research focus; and current professional certifications and credentials.
Two recommendations letters from professionals knowledgeable in applicants graduate school potential.

General Requirements

The student’s option and schedule of courses must be approved by his/her faculty advisor and graduate committee.

See Master’s Degree Requirements .