The Coordinated Program in Dietetics combines the theory learned in the classroom with supervised practice in community, clinical, and food service sites off campus. This prepares students for the National Registered Dietitian Examination, which is taken upon graduation and is required of students in order to become registered dietitians. The Dietetics program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation/Approval for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association. Each undergraduate student completes more than 900 hours of supervised practice prior to graduation. In the Dietetics program, gaining experience in the field is required. It is important to participate in as much supervised practice as possible through the Coordinated Program and/or dietetic internships. Becoming involved in a wide range of organizations is essential to be successful as a dietitian. Also, interviewing current dietitians can help students learn more about the profession prior to pursuing a career.

Students in the Dietetics Coordinated Program will graduate in May of their senior year, but must also complete a 6 credit externship immediately thereafter in order to receive a verification statement certifying that all coursework and supervised practice requirements have been completed. This statement qualifies the student to sit for the national registration examination, which they must pass in order to become a Registered Dietitian. The externship entails 6 weeks (40 hours/week) of intensive supervised practice experiences. Students will register for the externship as a non-degree student and will incur an additional expense.