2019-2020 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Clinical Dietetics - Program Description
College of Health Professions (CHP)
Department of Allied Health Sciences (AHS)
Website: www.gvsu.edu/grad/clinicaldiet
Degree Offered
Master of Science in clinical dietetics
Clinical dietetics focuses on using food as a medical intervention. Adequate nutritional status is vitally important to achieving quality and quantity of life throughout the lifespan, and is central to health and productivity.
Program Mission Statement
To develop high-potential students into exceptional masters' prepared entry-level registered dietitian/nutritionists who positively impact the health of their clients, profession, and communities.
This graduate program in clinical dietetics (CD) has been developed for two distinct audiences: Students requiring supervised practice to take the national dietetic registration examination (Track A) and those interested in only a master's degree because supervised practice hours have already been met (Track B).
Track A's supervised practice sites are diverse, providing access to different health systems, and a wide demographic of patients. These practice sites are available locally, regionally, and internationally. In addition to the supervised practice sites, clinical applications will be taught in technologically superior simulation laboratories. The M.S. in clinical dietetics will use problem-based learning, meaningful and sustainable group projects, and multiple opportunities to demonstrate critical thinking as they emerge as highly trained and sought after entry level registered dietitians/nutritionists. The program is 49 to 52 credits.
Track A is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND®)120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190 Chicago, IL 60606-6995 Phone: 312/899-0040 X 5400. Fax: 312/899-4817. Email: [email protected] URL: ww.eatright.org/ACEND
Track B is developed for the practicing RDN who seeks an advanced degree in clinical dietetics. Track B requires 39 to 42 credits. The track will facilitate a deeper understanding of the nutritional assessment process, pathophysiology and the role of nutrition in treatment of complex disease states, and research methods.
Admission Requirements for Track A Applicants
- Minimum over- all undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- B- or better in these undergraduate courses: biochemistry, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and advanced nutrition or medical nutrition therapy (MNT).
- Personal statement of career goals and background experiences, including volunteer and work experiences done outside of course requirements.
- Written recommendations from at least two individuals who are in positions to attest to the applicant's ability to successful complete the program.
- Personal Interview with the Admissions committee.
- Admission Requirements for Track B applicants:
- Minimum over-all undergraduate grade point average of a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Note: Admission to Track B is rolling and the program can be entered at the beginning of every semester.
Program Prerequisites: Track A
- Students who do not have an undergraduate degree from an ACEND accredited dietetic program will need to complete certain prerequisites. An unofficial transcript of undergraduate work can be sent to the CHP academic advising office for review and feedback on courses that need to be completed before application to the program. Prerequisites need to be completed by the first day of the semester in the cohort year admitted.
Program Prerequisites: Track B
- Credentialed by the Commission on Dietetic Registration as a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN).
Program Location
The MSCD program is offered on the Health Campus, Finkelstein Hall, on the medical mile in Grand Rapids, MI.
Available Programs: