This program provides basic preparation for fulfillment of the baccalaureate requirements for careers in community nutrition programs, health and wellness, dietetics, as well as in other related areas. In addition, students are eligible for graduate studies in these areas.
Check departmental information for additional requirements.
Special Requirements
Students must obtain the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and meet current Illinois Department of Public Health requirements for foodservice managers’ sanitation certificate and certification in first aid, cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and non-reactive 2-step tuberculin (TB) test. Students must earn a grade of C or better in NUTR prerequisite courses before they can enroll in any successive NUTR course to meet the requirements for a nutrition, dietetics, and wellness major. Liability insurance for internship courses is provided through a course fee.
Completion of the Dietetics area of study satisfies the academic requirements of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (the Academy). The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education of Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Students seeking verification of DPD completion must maintain a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 in DPD program courses (see adviser) and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. In addition, these students must achieve a grade of B or better in the following DPD courses: NUTR 310, NUTR 415 and NUTR 416. DPD verification is a prerequisite to securing placement in an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship program. Students are also strongly recommended to acquire work experience in patient care and food service to enhance eligibility for the dietetic internship program.
The major GPA will be calculated using requirements inside and outside of the school.
Postbaccalaureate Students
Postbaccalaureate students without degrees from an ACEND accredited nutrition degree program who wish to complete DPD verification by NIU must consult with the DPD director prior to NIU enrollment to determine required course work. Additional course work may be required to earn a second baccalaureate degree. Students should consult with an academic adviser.
Students who plan to pursue this area of study can enroll in courses for this area of study when they have completed the prerequisite courses with a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Retention and successful completion of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is based on maintenance of a minimum major GPA of 3.00.
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