Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health

About the Dietetic Internship

The K-State MS Dietetic Internship provides an efficient option for students to seamlessly transition from their undergraduate studies into a graduate level supervised practice program preparing them for the Registration Exam for Dietitians in a timely manner.

Kansas State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious dietetics programs in the country. In 1970 the Coordinated Program (CP), which combined coursework and supervised experiences, was established as one of the first of its kind. Over 1,500 students have graduated from the CP in the last 50 years. When the profession elected for a required master’s degree to go into effect in 2024, we decided it was time to reorganize. We transitioned our undergraduate CP into a master’s level Dietetic Internship (MSDI). Due to the historic nature and strong partnerships developed in the tenure of the CP, this transition was smooth. We continue to offer our undergraduate didactic coursework and existing DPD program while elevating the supervised practice portion of our previously titled Coordinated Program into a subplan of our Master of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Sensory Science.

Program Philosophy

The K-State dietetics program is based on the belief that dietitians are uniquely qualified to provide the latest evidence-based information and guidance in nutrition, encompassing health promotion, clinical nutrition, and management of nutrition services and foodservice systems.

The faculty believes students must understand the importance of the following in dietetic practice:

  • Appropriate and timely decision-making based on knowledge, judgment and application of research;
  • Effective management of resources to achieve organizational goals;
  • Utilization of human relations techniques in attainment of objectives;
  • Demonstration of leadership in problem-solving and recognizing needs for future change;
  • Commitment to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics;
  • Assumption of responsibility for self-direction, evaluation, and continued personal and professional development; and,
  • Advocacy of sound nutrition practices enhancing the well-being of the public.

The MSDI at K-State strives to prepare graduates to become successful dietetic practitioners. Every effort is made to prepare students for professional practice in our service-oriented, information-based society. The importance of quality and service is emphasized, as client needs and expectations must be the central focus of innovative dietetics practice. Dietitians must use on-going self-evaluation, embark on lifelong learning, and adhere to a personal and professional code of ethics.

Mission Statement

The K-State Dietetic Internship will prepare graduates to be entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists who apply evidence-based practice to provide food and nutrition products and services to meet the needs and support the well-being of those we serve.