Nutrition and Dietetics, MSc

The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is a full-time, two-year graduate program that integrates advanced coursework, simulation, and supervised experiential learning in preparation for entry-level practice as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).

Students complete applied learning in university, healthcare, community, foodservice, and other professional settings. The curriculum prepares students to demonstrate the competencies required by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), with a distinctive emphasis on evidence-based practice, clinical excellence, and environmental sustainability.

Accreditation

The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190 Chicago, IL 60606-6995 (312) 899-0040 ext 5400 ACEND Website

Program outcomes data are available upon request. Requests may be directed to the Program Director at dietetic@uccs.edu.

Program Schedule & Degree Plan

The Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is a full-time, two-year program. Required courses and supervised experiential learning experiences must generally be completed in the sequence shown in the program’s Two-Year Degree Plan.

Year One:

• Fall: Research Methods and Statistical Design; Sustainable Food Systems Management; Sustainable Food Systems Management Apprenticeship; Advanced Nutrition, Metabolism, and Disease
• Spring: Community Nutrition Interventions; Community Nutrition Interventions Apprenticeship; Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 1; graduate elective (3 credits) 

Year Two:

• Fall: Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 2; Clinical Apprenticeship 1; Nutrition Graduate Seminar
• Spring: Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 3; Clinical Apprenticeship 2; Nutrition Graduate Seminar

Students should also consult the official UCCS Academic Calendar for semester dates, university holidays, registration deadlines, and graduation deadlines.

Becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

The typical process to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist includes:

1. Earn a graduate degree.

2. Complete ACEND-accredited coursework and supervised experiential learning requirements.

3. Receive a verification statement from the accredited program.

4. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration credentialing examination for dietitian nutritionists.

5. Meet any state licensure or certification requirements that apply in the state where the graduate intends to practice.

Graduates who successfully complete all requirements of the UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics receive the verification statement needed to establish eligibility for the Commission on Dietetic Registration credentialing examination.

Colorado does not currently require licensure for dietitians. Many other states regulate dietetics practice through licensure, or other requirements. Requirements vary by state and may change. Students and graduates who plan to practice outside Colorado should review the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Licensure Map and the applicable state licensing authority. Students participating in distance education or out-of-state supervised experiential learning should also review UCCS state authorization and professional licensure information.

Program Mission, Goals, and Outcomes

Mission

The mission of the Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics program is to prepare graduates for evidence-based practice as competent, entry-level registered dietitians. 

Goals and Outcome Measures
Goal One - Prepare graduates to be competent, entry-level registered dietitians.

Objectives for Goal One:

• At least 80% of program graduates complete the program requirements within 3 years (150% of the program length).
• At least 90% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
• The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
• Of graduates who seek employment, at least 70% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
• During their first year of employment, a minimum of 80% of the responses from the annual employer survey will indicate that graduates perform at an above average level.
• At least 70% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will report “agree” or “strongly agree” regarding their knowledge and skill preparation for entry-level practice.

Goal Two - Produce graduates who utilize and apply evidence-based research to professional practice.

     Objectives for Goal Two:

• At least 70% of graduates who respond to the alumni survey will indicate that they apply evidence-based information as they make decisions in professional practice.

The Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is a full-time, two-year program. Required courses and supervised experiential learning experiences must generally be completed in the sequence shown in the program’s Two-Year Degree Plan.

Year One:

• Fall: Research Methods and Statistical Design; Sustainable Food Systems Management; Sustainable Food Systems Management Apprenticeship; Advanced Nutrition, Metabolism, and Disease
• Spring: Community Nutrition Interventions; Community Nutrition Interventions Apprenticeship; Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 1; graduate elective (3 credits) 

Year Two:

• Fall: Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 2; Clinical Apprenticeship 1; Nutrition Graduate Seminar
• Spring: Applied Medical Nutrition Therapy 3; Clinical Apprenticeship 2; Nutrition Graduate Seminar

Students should also consult the official UCCS Academic Calendar for semester dates, university holidays, registration deadlines, and graduation deadlines.

Supervised Experiential Learning Placements

The program coordinates supervised experiential learning placements for students enrolled in the in-person program. Placements are selected based on educational quality, availability, competency coverage, and program requirements. Students may be asked to participate in the placement-planning process, provide information needed for onboarding, and travel to approved sites throughout the region.

A specific site, setting, schedule, specialty, or preceptor cannot be guaranteed. Students must satisfy each site’s onboarding and eligibility requirements, which may include immunizations, background checks, drug screening, training, health insurance, or other documentation. Students are responsible for reliable transportation to and from assigned sites.

Technology Requirements

The currently approved program is delivered primarily in person at UCCS and at supervised experiential learning sites. Some courses or course activities may use Canvas, Zoom, Microsoft 365, or other university-supported technologies. Students must have consistent access to a computer, webcam, microphone, reliable high-speed internet, and software supported by UCCS.

Program Completion Requirements

To complete the UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics, students must:

• Complete a minimum of 47 graduate credit hours in the required program sequence.
• Earn a grade of C or better in all core and required courses.
• Maintain a minimum cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0.
• Complete all required supervised experiential learning experiences and a minimum of 1,000 supervised experiential learning hours.
• Demonstrate successful completion of all required ACEND competencies and performance indicators.
• Complete the Nutrition Graduate Seminar and associated graduate project requirements.
• Fulfill all university graduation and degree-candidacy requirements.

The program is designed to be completed in two academic years. Because required courses and supervised experiential learning experiences are sequential, an incomplete course, unmet competency, interrupted placement, or unmet site requirement may delay progression or graduation.

Admissions Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Undergraduate GPA of 2.8 or above
• Applicants must submit:
  • 3 letters of reference
  • Official transcripts from all institutions where undergraduate credit was earned
  • Personal statement addressing professional goals  
  • Resume or CV
  • Application fee $50.00 for first application. $25.00 application fee for additional programs via DIACAS. 

English Proficiency Requirements

All English as Second Language (ESL) applicants are required to meet a minimum standard of English proficiency for admission. This requirement can be met if:

• You have received or will receive a post-secondary degree in the United States.
• You have received or will receive a post-secondary degree where English is the language (medium) of instruction.
• You take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or an International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Duolingo, or another approved English proficiency test and receive a score that is equal to or higher than your program’s requirements.  Tests must have been taken in the last two years.
• You successfully complete an English language training program approved by UCCS.
• For more information please visit: https://graduateschool.uccs.edu/english-proficiency-requirements

International Students

International applicants are welcome to apply. The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is a STEM-designated program.

International applicants must meet UCCS Graduate School and international admission requirements, including requirements for academic records, transcript evaluation, English-language proficiency, and immigration documentation when applicable. Because additional documentation and processing time may be required, international applicants should review these requirements early in the application process.

Off-campus supervised experiential learning sites may have additional onboarding, documentation, health, background-check, or eligibility requirements.

DPD Verification Statement

A Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) verification statement is not required to apply. Applicants may come from dietetics, nutrition, health sciences, or other academic backgrounds, provided they meet the program’s admission and prerequisite requirements.

Prior Learning and Transfer Credit
The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics does not award credit for prior learning, previous work experience, or previously completed supervised experiential learning hours, and the program does not accept transfer credits.
 

Application Deadlines

Priority Application Deadline: November 1

Applicants with completed and verified applications in DICAS received by November 1 will be given priority consideration for admission.

Secondary Application Deadline: January 5
Applicants with completed and verified applications in DICAS received by January 5 will be considered for admission for any remaining seats in the program. Applicants seeking full financial aid consideration should meet the January 5 deadline to allow sufficient time for processing to meet the March 1 financial aid deadline.

Final Application Deadline: May 15
Applications received after the Secondary Application Deadline will be considered for admission if seats remain available. Applications will be reviewed in the order in which a completed application is received. Please note that there may be financial aid implications for applications received after the January 5 deadline.
 

Apply to the Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics

The application for the UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is now open through the DICAS system. Applicants should register in DICAS and add our program, listed as:

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs / Penrose–St. Francis Health Services Partnership
 

Preferred Program Prerequisites

Please read the below information for guidance on program prerequisites:

Required to Apply 

• Introductory Nutrition Course (see below for more detail)   
• Math – Algebra or Higher
• Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology with Labs
• General Chemistry with Lab

Conditional Admittance (must complete in the first year if not already completed)

1. Organic Chemistry with Lab
2. Biochemistry 

Preferred Not Required (these courses will help strengthen your application but are not required)

   a. General Psychology 
   b. Microbiology 
   c. Statistics
   d. Pathophysiology

Additional Guidance 

We do not have a policy or requirement for prerequisites to have been taken within a specific timeframe. For example, some programs may require coursework to have been completed within five years. We will evaluate each application holistically. If you have been away from school for a significant period of time (i.e. more than five years) you might consider retaking courses listed under the required section, especially an introductory nutrition course. 

An introductory nutrition course is quite common in Health Science programs across US higher education institutions. These courses are typically titled “Nutrition Across the Lifespan” or “Human Metabolism”. The course should cover basic nutrition principles of macro and micronutrients including basic human metabolism. For example, here at UCCS we offer HPNU 2050 Nutrition for Health Professionals. 

Course description: “An introductory level course for students preparing for health science careers. Emphasis will be on the variety of biological and environmental factors which influence nutritional needs and nutritional status. The role of nutrients in energy metabolism and physiology will also be covered. The course will also focus on the educational role of the health service provider. Each student will do a detailed analysis of their own diet.”

Estimated Costs

Costs are estimates for the full two-year program and may change. Most students are expected to qualify for Colorado-resident tuition. Non-Colorado residents should use the UCCS Tuition and Fee Bill Estimator to calculate an individualized estimate.

Students are responsible for university tuition and fees and for expenses associated with supervised experiential learning. These may include transportation, parking, professional attire, technology, health and safety requirements, background checks, drug screening, immunizations, and housing or relocation expenses. Supervised experiential learning placements should not be assumed to be paid positions.

Living Expenses and Overall Planning Estimate

Typical living expenses are not program charges but must be considered when planning for graduate study. The program estimates approximately $38,400 for housing, $2,400 for utilities, and $9,600 for food across 24 months. Personal transportation, health insurance, medical expenses, and miscellaneous costs vary by student.

Using these assumptions, the estimated total cost of attendance for a Colorado resident may be approximately $101,000-$102,000 across the two-year program. This is a planning estimate rather than a bill or guarantee.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Eligible graduate students may apply for federal financial aid, private educational loans, scholarships, grants, assistantships, and other forms of financial support. Availability and eligibility vary by student.

Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and review current opportunities through UCCS Financial Aid, the UCCS Graduate School, and the UCCS scholarship application. Students with existing educational loans should contact their loan servicer and UCCS Financial Aid regarding enrollment reporting and possible loan deferment.

Admission to the program does not guarantee a scholarship, stipend, graduate assistantship, paid supervised experiential learning placement, or other financial support.

Financial Aid Resources:

• UCCS Financial Aid
• UCCS Graduate School Funding Resources
• FAFSA

Q: What will my weekly schedule look like?
A: The program is full-time. Students complete a combination of graduate coursework, simulation, assignments, supervised experiential learning, and preparation outside scheduled class and placement hours. Supervised experiential learning schedules vary by semester and site and may include early mornings, evenings, or other hours associated with professional practice.

Q: Can I work while enrolled?
A: Some students maintain limited employment, but the program’s full-time coursework and supervised experiential learning schedule may make regular daytime employment difficult. Students should not assume that placements can be arranged around an outside work schedule.

Q: Is a DPD verification statement required?
No. A Didactic Program in Dietetics verification statement is not required to apply. Applicants must meet the program’s admission and prerequisite requirements.

Q: Do I need reliable transportation?
A: Yes. Students are responsible for transportation to UCCS and assigned supervised experiential learning sites. Public transportation may not serve all locations or placement schedules.

Q: Can I choose my placement sites?
A: Students may share professional interests and relevant circumstances during placement planning. Placements are based primarily on site availability, educational quality, competency requirements, sequencing, and program capacity. A particular site or specialty cannot be guaranteed.

Q: How many supervised experiential learning hours will I complete?
A: Students must complete at least 1,000 supervised experiential learning hours. Hours are distributed across foodservice, community, clinical, research, and other learning experiences and are completed concurrently with required coursework.

Q: What happens if I do not complete a course or placement on schedule?
A: Because the curriculum and supervised experiential learning experiences are sequential, an incomplete course, unmet competency, interrupted placement, or unmet site requirement may delay progression and graduation. The program works with students to develop an appropriate completion plan when possible.

Q: After becoming an RDN what areas can I specialize in?
A: The Commission on Dietetic Registration offers Board Certification as a Specialist in Pediatric, Renal, Gerontological,  Pediatric Critical Care, and Oncology Nutrition, as well as Sports Dietetics and Obesity and Weight Management.  Board Certification is granted in recognition of an applicant's documented practice experience and successful completion of an examination in the specialty area.

Q:  What if UCCS doesn’t have what I need?
A:  Your best resource is the online ACEND Program Directory for a complete list of all accredited nutrition programs.

Q: Does the program provide support in helping me find a career in my field?
A:  We provide a wide variety of support through career fairs, networking events, and the T. Rowe Price Career and Innovation Center. The Career and Innovation Center provides resume writing workshops, professional development resources, strategies, and tips for navigating the job market, resources for the job search process, career advising, and access to job and internship postings with our community partners. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Information for Students site is also a good starting point for students wanting to become registered dietitian nutritionists. 

Q: Can you provide me with information about the international application requirements for your program?
A: As an international student, there are a few additional application requirements when applying to our programs.   Please visit our website for transcript and English proficiency requirements details.  Visit the UCCS International Admissions website for additional international admissions information. 

The typical process to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist includes:

1. Earn a graduate degree.

2. Complete ACEND-accredited coursework and supervised experiential learning requirements.

3. Receive a verification statement from the accredited program.

4. Pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration credentialing examination for dietitian nutritionists.

5. Meet any state licensure or certification requirements that apply in the state where the graduate intends to practice.

Graduates who successfully complete all requirements of the UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics receive the verification statement needed to establish eligibility for the Commission on Dietetic Registration credentialing examination.

Colorado does not currently require licensure for dietitians. Many other states regulate dietetics practice through licensure, or other requirements. Requirements vary by state and may change. Students and graduates who plan to practice outside Colorado should review the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Licensure Map and the applicable state licensing authority. Students participating in distance education or out-of-state supervised experiential learning should also review UCCS state authorization and professional licensure information.

• Katherine Baker, PhD, RD, MS, MPH
• Jackie Berning, PhD, RD, CSSD
• Margaret Harris, PhD, MS, HC
• Andrea Hutchins, PhD, RDN, FAND
• Sean Svette, MSc RDN
   

Contact Us

SEAN SVETTE
Instructor | Program Coordinator
dietetic@uccs.edu 

Department of Education Required Licensure Disclosure Information
Please go to the Department of Education Required Licensure Disclosure Information for details on whether our curriculum meets the requirements for licensure in each state