Will this program prepare me to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?
Yes! The UVM MSD is a Coordinated Program in Dietetics accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). This program combines academic requirements to obtain a Master of Science degree, and 1,000+ hours of supervised practice experiences (internship) needed to qualify graduates to take the Registration Examination for Dietitian Nutritionists offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration to become a RDN.
There are various pathways that lead to the RDN credential. You can learn more on the 5 Steps to Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist page of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is completed in 4 semesters over a two-year period.
Can I stretch the coursework over more than two (2) years?
The expectation is that students will complete the coursework within two (2) consecutive years.
Do I have to complete the supervised practice experience (SPE) in one (1) year?
Students are expected to complete the SPE within one (1) calendar year.
Is there a requirement to be on campus?
There is a mandatory 5-day campus-based orientation the week before the first semester begins. There is no other on-campus requirement.
How much does the program cost?
Are there funded teaching and/or research assistantships available?
What kind of financial aid is available?
Can I keep my job while enrolled in the MSD program?
I live in Vermont, can I still complete the self-designed SPE?
Is the supervised practice experience (SPE) the same as the dietetic internship?
Does UVM participate in the DI (DICAS) match?
What prerequisite coursework is required?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in a non-related field. Can I apply to the UVM MSD program?
Students from all disciplines are welcome to apply to the UVM MSD Program so long as the prerequisite courses have been completed.
How do I complete the prerequisite courses and how long will it take?
Students who are missing prerequisites are encouraged to find courses at their local University/community college, or through an online program.
You can also explore the Pre-RD sequence through UVM Continuing and Distance Education (CDE).
It usually takes students a minimum of 2 years to complete the prerequisite requirements.
Can any of the prerequisites be waived because of experience and expertise in the subject area?
On a case by case basis, requests will be reviewed by the MSD program director. The requests must be made at least 8 weeks before the application deadline.
The MSD program will not accept any prior learning or experience as a substitute for any portion of the supervised practice experience.
I completed my Baccalaureate outside of the US. How do I apply?
The Commission on Dietetic Registration requires a transcript evaluation by a third party agency to validate your academic degree is equivalent to the bachelor's or master's degree conferred by a U.S. regionally-accredited college or university. Once this evaluation is complete, we can determine if there are any additional prerequisites you must complete.
The University of Vermont Graduate College provides additional information and requirements for international students to verify language proficiency, apply for a student visa, and complete the application.
Can I participate in this program while living in another country?
Because required courses are offered online they may be completed from anywhere. However, under the guidelines of the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), the 1,000+ hours of supervised practice must be completed in the United States.