Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, 36 credits
Graduate students in the Department of Nutrition and Health Science can earn a Master of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics with either a thesis or a non-thesis concentration. The graduate program, designed to provide flexibility and individualization for students with varying needs and interests, can include an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship with a Medical Nutrition Therapy focus. At present, with the exception of candidates who are currently registered dietitian nutritionists (RD/RDN), only candidates who are accepted into the Ball State Dietetic Internship through the DICAS match are accepted into the program.
The program is intended for two types of individuals—aspiring dietitians and current dietitians. There are four concentrations in the MS Nutrition and Dietetics program: 1) MS-thesis with internship, 2) MS-non-thesis with internship, 3) MS-thesis without internship, and 4) MS-non-thesis without internship. Aspiring dietitians who are accepted into Ball State’s dietetic internship must choose between the thesis and non-thesis concentration with internship, while current dietitians must choose between the thesis and non-thesis concentration without internship. It is possible for candidates to transfer up to 9 graduate credits into the program. Contact the Graduate Program Director for details.
Dietetic Internship
The dietetic internship at Ball State University is a 32-week, full-time program. Prior to beginning the internship, students must complete a minimum of 9 graduate credits, including NUTR 642 Nutrition Assessment. Students are placed in one of two internship classes that run from January through August or May through December of the year following the student’s acceptance into the program. Dietetic students accepted into the internship program will have the opportunity to complete the requirements of the dietetic internship and at least 18 credits toward the completion of the master’s degree. The dietetic internship is currently granted accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, 312-899-0040.