Program: Dietetics (M.S.) - South Dakota State University

2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

Apr 03, 2025

View of fruits and vegetables at a market.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Elizabeth Droke, Associate Professor, PhD, RDN
School of Health and Consumer 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 or have a Verification Statement from an ACEND accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics. This degree does not prepare one to become a credentialed RDN.

Program Mission

Through inter-institutional collaboration, the Masters in Dietetics program will prepare dietetic professionals for evidence-based advanced practice.

Course Delivery Format

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

Student Learning Outcomes

By the completion of the program, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to address important issues in our discipline.

By the completion of the program, students will be able to write clearly and effectively for a variety of audiences.

By the completion of the program, students will report positive impact of the masters in dietetics program on their lives including job performance.

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 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) 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: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

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 or their RND credential card as verification of eligibility.
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 .

Dietetics (M.S.)

Location(s): OnlineClose