2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

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

Select one of the following options


Option A - Thesis


Option B - Research/Design Paper


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 .

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