The Dietetics Specialization provides excellent preparation for students that want to pursue a career in nutrition and dietetics. The Specialization includes the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Employment opportunities for dietetic and nutrition professionals are growing and include those in health care, business and industry, public health, education, research and private practice. Many employers require that an individual be credentialed as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) while others require a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) credential. The Dietetics Specialization curriculum provides a solid foundation for those who wish to earn one or both of these credentials.<br>There are several ways to earn the RDN credential. A common way is to 1) complete a bachelor's degree in conjunction with a DPD (such as the Dietetic Specialization), 2) complete a post-baccalaureate accredited dietetic internship, and 3) pass a national credentialing exam. Note that effective January 1, 2024, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) will require a minimum of a master's degree to be eligible to take the credentialing exam to become a RDN.<br><br>Students will be able to:<br>demonstrate knowledge of the scientific basis of the nutrition discipline.<br>demonstrate competency in the interpretation and critical analysis of the scientific literature which will be integrated into evidence-based practice.