Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics Frequently Asked Questions

The courses are offered in an arrangement which enables you to complete the program in approximately 2.5 years. Once you have decided on a program option (see classes required), utilize the course schedule to map out how you would like to take your courses. You will then be able to tell exactly how long it will take you to complete the program. (Please remember, however, that the course schedule is subject to change. Also, note that courses may fill early so you would always want to plan to register as soon course registration is open to you.) Courses are not in any sequence, and can be taken in any order. The only exception is the capstone which requires research methods and all core courses to be completed prior.

You do not have to be a Registered Dietitian to enter this program, but the Plan B-internship option is limited to those students who have completed or will be completing an AND (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics) approved internship. The program does, however, require the undergraduate prerequisites to be met. Please see prerequisite undergraduate coursework requirements for admission to the program.

Travel to the Mt. Pleasant, Michigan campus is never required to complete this program. We have had students from all over the world complete this program and all requirements were completed from their current location.

International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate their English language competency.

The GRE is not required for admission to the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics program but is encouraged.

On an average, the typical class size is approximately 18, with the exception of the capstone course.

Exams are completed online. Detailed instructions and requirements will be provided by the course professor.

The Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics would be ideal for research purposes in a non-clinical setting, food service management or administration in nutrition services, but would not be suitable for private practice, clinical dietetics work (hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, consulting) or the majority of community/public health work. Most states have legislation requiring that clinical nutrition services or nutrition education services must be provided by a Registered Dietitian who is licensed by the state.

Military students will have their tuition rate adjusted to a reduced rate upon submitting their military picture identification.

Cost of Attendance

Yes. Many of our students opt to take only one course per semester, while others will take two per semester. Three courses in one semester is discouraged. We recommend (but do not require) that NDS 678, Research Methods, is taken alone due to the workload for this course. NDS 799, Capstone in Nutrition and Dietetics, must be taken as the only course in the final semester. You may complete the program at the pace that suits you, keeping in mind that you have a maximum of seven years from completion of the first credits utilized towards the degree to complete all program requirements.

Registered Dietitians who did not earn graduate credit for their internship, or whose graduate-level internship credit will be more than seven years old at the time of graduation from the program, are eligible to earn the 12 hours of internship credit required on the Plan B internship option through passing the CBE. These three examinations, frequently referred to as CBE (credit by examination), are in the areas of 1) clinical, 2) foodservice administration, and 3) a summary examination (education, research, community). The exams are 100 multiple choice questions each. Students may take the exams at any time. The cost for the exams is at a rate of $50 per credit hour or $600 for all 12 credits. This represents a tuition cost savings of over $6,000. The exams are administered online. Credit/No Credit grading is utilized. Students are allowed two attempts to pass each exam. If a passing score is not obtained after two attempts, the student must earn the 12 credits through electives.

Credit By Examination Form

You are able to drop courses after registration closes.  You may be eligible for a refund based on the timing of dropping the course.  

Course Drop and Withdrawal Information

All questions should be directed to Dr. Najat Yahia.  She can be reached via email.

Admission into the program does not guarantee a "seat" in any given course for any given semester. We will attempt to accommodate your needs for course "seats" as best as we can considering enrollment restrictions.​

Deficiencies in GPA may only be remedied by completing additional senior level undergraduate coursework in the areas of the sciences or dietetics sufficient to elevate the GPA to 3.0 or better.

The process may take several months or even years. Please review the "Informational Handout to Complete the Planning Form" found on Blackboard, available upon admission, for additional information.​ Students completing the Plan B or Plan C option may complete their capstone paper over a 16-week semester, instead of working with an individual faculty member.