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Accreditation Details & Goals
South Dakota State University's Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education of Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, 800/877-1600 ext 5400.
The mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics is to provide graduates with a rigorous, science-based, student-centered learning experience that provides the foundational knowledge and skills for eligibility for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become registered dietitian nutritionist. The program cultivates graduates who are lifelong learners in professions that enhance human potential and well-being.
For current program goals and objectives, please view the Didactic Program in Dietetics Policy and Procedures Handbook for Students, Faculty, and Staff.
Outcome data measuring achievement of program objectives will be provided for ACEND reviews and is available to students, prospective students, and the public upon request via email from the DPD Director, Lacey McCormack, PhD, MPH, RD, LN, EP-C.
Student Requirements
- Successful completion of the accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics and receipt of the verification statement is the first step in becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
- For more detailed information about the academic requirements of the DPD program, and the pathway to becoming an RDN, please see the Didactic Program in Dietetics Policy and Procedures Handbook for Students, Faculty, and Staff.
- General academic information to include the academic calendar for students can be found on SDSU’s Student Life webpage.
- Specific information on the program curriculum and graduation requirements is available through Academic Advising Guide Sheets.
Retention and Student Satisfaction
Program cohorts range from 25-35 students
Placement/Exams
- The DPD program at SDSU produces graduates who are competitive in the internship application process, and that successfully pass the national registration exam. Current internship acceptance rates and credentialing exam pass rates can be found in the Didactic Program in Dietetics Policy and Procedures Handbook for Students, Faculty, and Staff.
- Dietetics offers a wide variety of jobs in hospitals, health promotion programs, nursing homes, public health agencies, industries, schools, universities, the armed services, and state, national and international organizations.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Salary Calculator
- Academy Member Compensation Report
Minor in Nutrition
A minor in Nutrition can be beneficial to individuals who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in many health related fields and pre-professional programs. It may also assist students who are interested in attending graduate or medical school by providing a strong science knowledge base. The minor would benefit students in the hospitality and/or food service industries. The Nutrition minor provides students a strong fundamental knowledge of metabolism and the complex interaction between foods and our bodies. The minor does not allow students to become a registered dietitian.
Not sure if this major is for you?
Check out the Degree Explorer in Nutrition and Dietetics, to learn more.
Nutrition & Dietetics Internship Nutrition Minor