What is the pass rate on the registration exam of your interns?
The pass rate for first-time exam takers over the past five 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 process.
Who should I contact with questions about the internship, including the application process?
Contact the director of the internship program, Rena Quinton, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.N., at rquinton@immaculata.edu or the assistant director, Debbie Shadle, M.B.A., R.D., L.D.N., at 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 intern's residence, previous work experience, and facility scheduling requirements. Every effort is made to place interns at a site that offers them opportunity for success and that is close to where they live. The last rotation of eight days is the intern's choice with the approval of the internship director.
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 master's program?
The 24 credits you earn during the dietetic internship apply to the 48 credits needed for the master's in Nutrition Education.
If I have experience in long-term care and/or WIC, do I have to complete those rotations?
You will need to complete the six-day long-term care and/or nine-day WIC rotations, since the experience will be at the level of a registered dietitian and is required to complete all the competencies required by the American Dietetic Association (ADA).
What employment opportunities are available for graduates with an M.A. 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, foodservice managers, outpatient dietitians, etc. Work settings include: hospitals, long-term care facilities, school foodservice, 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 ADA 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. Contact Tracy Oliver, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.N., for further information.
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 master's credits are completed.
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 1,200 hours of supervised practice. Since the part-time program is completed three days per week, the time to complete the internship is extended.