Nutritional Sciences - Dietetics Option (DPD)

Overview

Welcome to the Dietetics option in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Rutgers School of Environmental & Biological Sciences. For ease of navigation, select our program highlights, steps to become an RDN, admissions criteria, curriculum, and tuition and fees links.

The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, located in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Department of Nutritional Sciences on the New Brunswick Campus are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, 312-899-0040, ext. 5400. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Course List for Dietetics Option (200k PDF)

For further information on ACEND accreditation, contact:

Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
120 South Riverside Plaza
Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
800-877-1600, ext. 5400
acend@eatright.org
eatright.org/acend

For more information about Rutgers' Dietetics Internship program,  please visit our Nutritional Sciences Graduate website.

The Rutgers University DPD provides students with a strong foundation in social and behavioral sciences, humanities, physical sciences and specialized coursework in nutrition, foods, and foodservice management. Through the program, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and other professionals; practice as competent and ethical nutrition and dietetic professionals; demonstrate leadership; and recognize and respond to the diverse needs, backgrounds, and perspectives of the individuals and communities they serve.

Effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) requires a minimum of a master’s degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). In addition, CDR requires that students complete coursework and supervised practice in program(s) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). In most states, graduates also must obtain licensure or certification to practice. Graduates who successfully complete the ACEND-accredited DPD program at Rutgers are eligible to apply to an ACEND-accredited RDN program.

Here is more information about educational pathways to become an RDN.

Rutgers dietetics students are encouraged to meet regularly with their assigned academic advisor to discuss course selection, academic progress, and preparation for their professional goals. The dietetics program also holds group advising sessions throughout the year to provide students with important information about ACEND requirements, supervised practice application timelines and SEBS curriculum or program changes that may affect their academic planning. Students are notified about these sessions through email and announcements in courses.

Dietetics Transfer – Associate in Science degree

Middlesex College (MC) students completing the Associate of Science in Dietetics Transfer curriculum (2-year program) can seamlessly transfer 60 credits towards their Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences – Dietetics Option degree at Rutgers University. This allows students to complete the B.S. degree and obtain their DPD verification statement in our Rutgers dietetics program in an additional two years of full-time study. For more information about this seamless pathway, please view this informational handout and visit the MC Dietetics – Transfer program website.

Special Opportunities at Rutgers University

Dietetics students have opportunities to participate in the SEBS "SPIN" program (Student to Professional Internship Network). This program combines work experience and classroom education through learning goals approved by a faculty advisor.

SEBS students who are in the top 15% of their class at the end of their junior year may participate in the George H. Cook Scholars Program which promotes individual student research and special projects.

There are a number of on-campus work experiences available to students, such as the RU Healthy Dining Team, Nutrition Advocates, EFNEP, and the New Brunswick Community Farmers Market.