Nutrition and Dietetics - Dietetic Internship - FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pass rate on the registration exam of your interns?

The pass rate for first time exam takers over the past 5 years at Immaculata University is 85%.
 
Do I need to apply to the graduate program to apply to the internship?

Applicants not currently enrolled in the College of Graduate Studies at Immaculata University must submit the graduate application as part of the internship application packet.

Who should I contact with questions about the internship, including the application process?

Contact the director of the internship program, Rena Quinton, PhD, RD, LDN, rquinton@immaculata.edu or the assistant director, Debbie Shadle, MBA, RD, LDN dshadle@immaculata.edu

Can I select my internship rotation locations?

The Dietetic Internship Director and Assistant Director assign interns to practice sites based on the interns' residence, previous work experience, and facility scheduling requirements. Every effort is made to place the intern at a site that offers them opportunity for success and is close to where they live.

Can I complete my rotations at my current place of employment?

Consideration would be given to this upon request.

Can I transfer the credits I earn in the dietetic internship to the masters program?

The 21 credits you earn during the dietetic internship apply to the 45 credits needed for the Masters in Nutrition Education.

If I have experience in long term care and/or WIC. Do I have to repeat those experiences?

No, an alternate experience in community nutrition will be provided.

What employment opportunities are available for graduates with a MA in Nutrition Education?

The program is science based and planned to develop the ability to interpret nutrition science for the public. Former students have obtained jobs as clinical dietitians, food service managers, outpatient dietitians etc. Work settings include: hospitals, long term care facilities, school food service, community and public health programs, fitness centers and private practice.

I have a baccalaureate degree in another major, e.g. music, psychology. How do I become a dietitian?

The Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association has established educational requirements for eligibility to apply for a dietetic internship. The minimum requirements include a baccalaureate degree in any subject and completion of required courses.
At Immaculata you can complete the required courses at the undergraduate level without having to complete an additional degree. Selected courses are available at the graduate level that would also apply towards the MA in Nutrition Education.

Is financial aid available to students?

Federal Stafford Student Loans are available to students. All applicants for financial aid must file an Immaculata University Financial Aid Form and a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), both of which may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. A limited number of scholarships are available after 15 masters credits are completed.

How long does it take to complete the Dietetic Internship and the Master's Program?

If you enter the program with a degree in dietetics or nutrition and Verification from CADE you can complete all course work and the internship in 21 months full-time. A comprehensive exam would be taken after this.

What is the difference between the full-time and part-time programs?

The program content is the same for both options. All interns attend internship class together, meet the same competencies and complete 1200 hours of supervised practice. Since the part-time program is completed three days per week, the time to complete the internship is extended.