Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, BSD

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Graduates who successfully complete the ACEND-accredited undergraduate didactic dietetics program at Bowling Green State University are eligible to apply to an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program (also called a Dietetic Internship) after graduation. Graduates of the undergraduate dietetics program will want to consider opportunities to gain a master’s degree in order to be eligible to apply to take the CDR credentialing exam to become an RDN by the year 2024. 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 registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). In addition, CDR requires that individuals complete coursework and supervised practice in program(s) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Once all requirements are met to become an RDN, a graduate can be eligible for licensure in states that require licensure.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in dietetics are expected to:

Demonstrate knowledge of biological, chemical and physical science concepts and apply these concepts to food and nutrition science.
Evaluate food and nutrition science problems using critical thinking and analytical skills.
Formulate effective oral and written communications pertinent to food, nutrition, and clinical dietetics.
Demonstrate competency using a variety of techniques and instruments to investigate food and nutrition science problems.
Plan, implement, and evaluate nutrition interventions and programs for individuals as well as groups using nutritional assessment and diagnosis techniques.

*Program approval status: The Didactic Program in Dietetics is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, located at 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190 Chicago, IL 60606-6995, (312) 899-0040 ext. 5400 http://www.eatrightPRO.org/ACEND

BG Perspective (BGP) Requirements

Must complete at least 1 course in each of the following:

English Composition and Oral Communication
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Quantitative Literacy
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Must Complete at least 2 courses in each of the following:

Humanities and the Arts
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Natural Sciences - at least one Lab Science required
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Social and Behavioral Sciences
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Complete total required BGP credit hours by selecting courses from any of the above categories:

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University Requirements

Designated courses in Humanities and the Arts and the Social and Behavioral Sciences domains may be used to fulfill both the BGP requirement and one of the following university requirements:

Cultural Diversity in the US ____________
International Perspective ____________

Composition Requirement:
WRIT 1120

Total BGP Credits: Must be at least 36

Program Major Courses

(55 Hours)

Required Courses

(39 Hours)

Total Hours: 122

This degree program is designed to be completed in 4 years. Changing majors, academic issues, or other unforeseen circumstances may require additional semesters for completion. Official degree requirements are found in the student’s Degree Audit within MyBGSU.

Preparation for the Internship Application

GPA: a GPA of 3.0 or above by graduation is recommended to have a better chance of being accepted into a Dietetic Internship Program.
Work Experience: Most internship sites demand work and/ or volunteer experiences related to dietetics as part of the application credentials. Work/volunteer experience is recommended throughout the academic program as well as during the summer.
Recommendation Letters: Usually, three recommendation letters are required. It helps to build up favorable work relationships with supervisors and professors on a long-term basis. It is helpful to have a recommendation letter from a work-related registered dietitian.