Didactic Program in Dietetics
A student must complete an ACEND-accredited program in education and supervised practice in order to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). After completing an ACEND-accredited Coordinated Program (CP) , Future Education Model Graduate Programs (FG), Foreign or International Dietitian Education Program, or a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) followed by a Dietetic Internship (DI) or Individualized Supervised Practice Program (ISPP) students that have earned verification are eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians. After passing the Registration Examination for Dietitians, RDNs may seek licensure, if applicable. In order to become a Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR) students must complete an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Technician Program or successfully complete coursework in an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics. Examination requirements for the RDN and the NDTR are set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). By 2024, individuals must have a Master's level degree in order to be eligible to take the CDR credentialing exam for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.
A Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is designed for those who wish to enter the dietetics profession. It is an academic program in a U.S. regionally accredited college or university that culminates in a minimum of a baccalaureate degree. The TCU DPD is a two-year program that meets the eligibility requirements and accreditation standards for entry-level dietetics education programs specified by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Coursework is based upon achievement of Core Knowledge Requirements for the RDN for Didactic Programs in Dietetics and emphasizes the scientific and evidence base of dietetics practice, professional practice expectations, clinical and customer services, and practice management and the use of resources. The TCU DPD curriculum includes courses in human nutrition, food science, food and culture, community nutrition, food systems management, medical nutrition therapy and nutrition research. These courses are based on a solid science and math background, which include general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, psychology, sociology, economics, and elementary statistics.
Program Mission
The mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at Texas Christian University is to support the missions of the University, college and department by fostering a rigorous academic curriculum that prepares students to be scientifically competent, accountable and ethically responsible citizens who are prepared for supervised practice, and thereby advancing as self-educating dietetics professionals who will become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in the global community.
BS DPD Program
MS in Nutrition with DPD Verification
The Texas Christian University Didactic Program in Dietetics is currently granted accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995,
312.899.0040, ext. 5400
www.eatrightpro.org/ACEND
Program admission/application and other policies and procedures shall protect student civil rights, privacy of information, and comply with institutional equal opportunity programs. TCU is committed to providing a positive learning, living and working environment free from discrimination and harassment. In support of this commitment, TCU prohibits a range of behaviors, including unlawful discrimination and harassment based on age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ethnic origin, disability, predisposing genetic information, covered veteran status, and any other basis protected by law, except as permitted by law.
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