About the Dietetics Track
For students interested in becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). RDNs apply the science of food and nutrition across diverse settings to promote health, prevent disease, and support the management of nutrition-related conditions.
There are several pathways available to become an RDN. All pathways begin with foundational knowledge requirements established by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). At Boston University, students in the Dietetics Track meet these requirements by completing the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD).
Boston University’s DPD is ACEND-accredited
ACEND: 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995; 312-899-0040 ext. 5400
Visit the ACEND website
View the Curriculum
DPD Verification Statement
Upon successful completion of the dietetics track and all graduation requirements, students receive a DPD Verification Statement – the first step on your path to become an RDN. For those interested in the NDTR credential, your DPD Verification Statement qualifies you to sit for the national NDTR registration exam.
DPD Mission, Goals, and Objectives
Mission
Aligned with the mission of the Boston University Programs in Nutrition, the mission of the Boston University DPD is to prepare students with the foundational knowledge and skills for dietetics practice.
Goal 1
BU DPD graduates will enter supervised practice, a graduate program or employment in a food or health-related field.
Objectives
- At least 80% of students complete program requirements within 3 years (150% of planned program length).
- At least 40% percent of program graduates apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
- Of program graduates who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 50% percent are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
- Of program graduates who apply to a graduate program, at least 20% percent are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
- Of program graduates who apply for a food or health-related position, at least 20% percent will begin employment within 12 months of graduation.
Goal 2
BU DPD graduates will be competent dietetic interns, graduate students, or entry-level food or health-related professionals.
Objectives
- 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%.
- At least 80% of graduates entering supervised practice programs upon completion of the BU DPD will receive a score of ‘average’ or above preparation on a survey of supervised practice directors sent one year after graduation (out of the total number of surveys received).
- ‘At least 80% of graduates responding to a one-year graduation survey regarding adequacy of academic preparation for supervised practice, a graduate degree program, or employment in a food or health-related field will report ‘average’ or above preparation (out of the total number of surveys received.
Boston University DPD outcomes data are available upon request.
Next Steps on Your Path to Become an RDN
1. After earning your DPD Verification Statement:
- Complete a master’s degree
- Complete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program (e.g., a dietetic internship)
Boston University’s MS in Nutrition/Dietetic Internship (MS/DI) program combines both the master’s degree and supervised practice into one integrated pathway.
2. Pass the national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
BU 100% Pass Rate
Boston University DPD graduates have maintained a 100% pass rate within one year of their first attempt on the CDR exam since 2018.
3. Meet state licensure requirements.
Ready to Get Started?