2023-2024 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Nov 27, 2024  
2023-2024 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Dietetics (M.S.)

Location(s): Online


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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

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: 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 .

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