Nutrition and Dietetics

If you’re interested in becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), you may pursue the DPD option as part of your undergraduate coursework. This ACEND-accredited pathway fulfills the academic requirements to apply for a supervised practice program (dietetic internship) and is an essential step toward earning the RDN credential.

This flexible, interdisciplinary program complements majors in health sciences, public health, education, psychology, biology, kinesiology and more. Whether you're pursuing a career in health care, public health, sustainable food systems or education, this minor provides valuable, applicable knowledge to support your personal and professional goals.

NIU offers a pre-select admission option for qualified NIU DPD students seeking a seamless transition into the combined Master of Science and dietetic internship (M.S./DI) program. This pathway supports your goal of becoming an RDN by streamlining the application process and reducing uncertainty during your final undergraduate year.

For students who have not completed a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) as undergraduates, NIU offers an ACEND-accredited pathway to complete DPD requirements during the first year of the M.S. in Nutrition program. This prepares you to apply for the pre-select dietetic internship in fall of your first year, with the internship taking place in year two of the program. Please note: Some prerequisite courses may be required prior to admission. Contact the program coordinator for details.

This ACEND-accredited program offers the required supervised practice hours and graduate-level coursework to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).