Questions about dietetic internships

Frequently Asked Questions about Dietetics Internships

  1. Is it possible to create my own Dietetic Internship (DI) or distance program?
  2. What is the difference between an internship or experience and a DI accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE)?
  3. How can I find summer work experience?
  4. Are there DIs that allow students to specialize?
  5. Please explain how computer matching works. 

 

  1. Is it possible to create my own Dietetic Internship (DI) or distance program?
    No, this is not possible.  You will need to complete a CADE-accredited DI before you can take the registration examination to become a RD. There are some DIs that allow you to complete the program in your area if you are able to locate an appropriate site and RD preceptors to guide you in developing and evaluating the learning experiences required by the DI program. To find these programs, click on the Listing of Programs Offering Distance Education from the DI page.

  2. What is the difference between an internship or experience and a DI accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE)?
    A CADE-accredited DI is planned to meet a minimum of 46 specifically identified competencies that are the basis for entry-level dietetics practice. Specific levels of performance are identified for each of the competencies. In addition, an increased depth of experience is required for a minimum of seven additional competencies. Work experience internships generally provide an opportunity to participate in dietetics-related tasks but may not be planned to formally develop specifically defined competencies for registration eligibility.

  3. How can I find a summer work experience?
    The American Dietetic Association (ADA) does not coordinate placement of dietetics students for summer work experience. Contact your State Professional Recruitment Coordinator (SPRC) for advice or possible leads. Another resource is your state and local dietetic association. Many associations have job hotlines available for their members. It is important to note that ADA does not endorse or approve work or volunteer experience hours as credit towards education or supervised practice requirements. However, volunteering does add value to your portfolio. You may wish to contact a local hospital about volunteering in the nutrition department or participate in a local community event. To find out more about volunteering opportunities, please visit the ADA Student Scoop, Issue 3, volume 3 (May issue), feature article.

  4. Are there Internships that allow students to specialize?
    CADE-accredited supervised practice programs prepare students to begin dietetics practice not for specialty certification.  However, DIs and CPs accredited after 1997 must have an emphasis in at least one area of dietetics practice.  The emphasis area(s) will be noted in the program's recruitment information and in the directory listing on this Web site.  The most common emphasis areas are General, Nutrition Therapy, Foodservice Systems Management, Community, or Business/Entrepreneur.

    Some CADE-accredited DIs develop competencies and are accredited for an emphasis in other practice areas. Some programs may have resources that provide learning opportunities in other areas, but these are not developed into an emphasis. For example, there are DIs sponsored by children's hospitals with programs in developmental disorders or Internships that are sponsored by institutions with separate graduate programs in sports nutrition/fitness or public health that use these resources in planning learning opportunities for interns although they may not be an identified emphasis area.  Also, most programs have special projects or case studies in which you can study an area of special interest. Your DPD Program Director may be helpful in identifying a DI that meets your interest area.

  5. Please explain how computer matching works.
    A Fact Sheet with the Top 10 Questions about Computer Matching for Dietetic Internships has been developed to address many of the common questions students have. If you still have questions after reviewing the information please contact ADA's Accreditation, Education Programs, and Student Operations staff at 800/877-1600 ext. 5400 or education@eatright.org.


June 2004

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