Overview
The on-campus dietetic internship program at Illinois State University offers a streamlined pathway to credentialing by integrating the dietetic internship and Master of Science degree in Nutrition into one cohesive 16-month experience.
Our graduate program is proud to offer a low student to faculty ratio, ensuring you receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout your studies. Additionally, we offer the flexibility to choose between thesis and non-thesis options that are tailored to your academic and professional goals. Graduate assistantships are available to help offset the cost of tuition and provide valuable professional experience.
Visit the Sequence of Courses and Cost pages to learn more.
About the Program
Our program aims to prepare students to be competent, entry level registered dietitian nutritionists with a strong educational framework. In the dietetic internship, you will be paired with our network of experienced preceptors who will provide diverse experience in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and food service management. Visit our Rotation Sites page to learn more.
This program is designed for someone who has their undergraduate degree, completed a didactic program in dietetics and possess a DPD verification statement. Alternate dietetic pathways at Illinois State University include a Distance Dietetic Internship Graduate Certificate program and a Master of Science degree in Nutrition (without the internship).
Contact Mrs. Kaitlin Byrd or Mrs. Jessica Kollmann to arrange a time to discuss the exciting opportunities at Illinois State.
- Admissions
- Sequence of Courses
- Goals and Outcomes
- Cost
- Rotation Sites
- Academic Calendar
- Preceptor Resources
Open House
View our open house recording to discover what makes our program unique! Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already planning your next steps, this is a perfect opportunity to hear from program staff,current students, faculty & preceptors.
Contact dieteticinternship@ilstu.edu for more information on virtual program showcases or individual meetings!
How Do I Become an RDN?
The Illinois State Dietetic Internship has opportunities available to students for earning their master’s degree and completing the supervised practice/experience required for exam eligibility.
To become a registered dietitian nutritionist, you will need to:
1. Complete a minimum of a master's degree granted by a college or university accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized accrediting agency or foreign equivalent, and coursework through an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics accredited Didactic, Coordinated, Graduate or International program.
2. Complete required supervised practice/experience through an ACEND-accredited Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program, Graduate Program, or an Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway offered through an ACEND-accredited program.
3. Pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. For more information regarding the examination, refer to CDR's website.
4. Meet requirements to practice in your state. Many states have regulatory laws (i.e. licensure) for food and nutrition practitioners. All states accept the RDN credential for state licensure purposes.
5. Stay up-to-date in dietetics through continuing education. After successfully passing the national exam and earning the credential, RDNs maintain ongoing professional development in order to stay up to date on the latest research, recommendations and best practices.
