Master of Science in Dietetics

Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD)

Located in vibrant Midtown Detroit, Wayne State's Department of Nutrition and Food Science offers a master's degree in dietetics that leads to the credential of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Our Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD) is one of only three ACEND-accredited coordinated programs in Michigan. Since its inception in 1980, the Wayne State CPD has been fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

The CPD is a highly regarded degree option that combines graduate-level coursework with 1032 hours of supervised practice in a two-year program. You will learn the latest evidence-based practices in nutrition and dietetics as you sharpen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Our top-notch faculty provide expertise in a wide range of nutrition topics and our working relationships with highly rated health centers in Detroit and surrounding communities provide opportunities to learn from qualified and skilled nutrition professionals in the field.

Program graduates who plan to remain in the Detroit metropolitan area readily find employment at many of the facilities and agencies where they completed their rotations. Over 80% of our graduates find employment in the field within three months of graduation. Dietitians can find challenging and rewarding positions in a variety of areas including clinical practice, education and research, private clinics, community organizations, schools, supermarkets and more.

Admissions

Visit dietetics admissions for requirements and criteria.

Program mission and goals

The Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CPD) has as its mission the successful education and training of outstanding entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists and service to the community in which the university is located. Educational emphasis is on medical nutrition therapy, in particular as it relates to nutrition and chronic diseases, which affect a disproportionate segment of Michigan residents, particularly those in the community. In addition, the CPD strives to serve the state of Michigan and in particular, the southeastern region, from which come the majority of university students and in which the majority seek employment upon program completion.

Our current CPD goals will give you an idea of what we are trying to achieve and show you if we are a good match for your career plans.

  • Goal 1: Quality performance

    Graduates will deliver quality nutritional care that is based on current research and academic standards for entry-level dietitians.

    Objectives:

    • At least 80% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
    • The program's one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of the first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
    • At least 80% of program graduates will receive a rating of four or higher (on a scale from one to five, five is the highest) from their employer, for their overall performance and level of preparation in entry-level practice.
    • At least 80% of graduates surveyed rate their overall level of preparation for entry-level practice at four or higher (on a scale from one to five, five is the highest).
  • Goal 2: Community involvement

    Graduates will provide service to the community and profession by engaging in diverse educational experiences and community involvement.

    Objectives:

    • Of graduates who seek employment, at least 80% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
    • At least 70% of program graduates will become involved in their communities, evidenced by graduate survey data indicating involvement in precepting, professional or volunteer activities.
  • Goal 3: Leadership

    Graduates demonstrate initiative, time management and leadership skills.

    Objectives:

    • At least 80% of students complete program requirements within three years (150% of the program length).
    • At least 25% of graduates will demonstrate leadership by securing a position involving management responsibilities or assuming leadership roles in local, state, or national dietetic associations, practice groups or other professional groups or associations within the first year after program completion.

Note: The CPD continuously monitors progress, achievement of goals and outcome data, which are available upon written request.

Accreditation

The program is granted accreditation status by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), the accrediting agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Continuation of the CPD's full accreditation status was granted in July 2023 for a term of eight years, ending on Dec. 31, 2031. The ACEND website provides further information and ACEND can be contacted at:

ACEND@eatright.org
312-899-0040 ext. 5400
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995.

Contact 💬

Mary Width, dietetics program director
GradProgramNFS@wayne.edu

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.