Admissions Requirements

The University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (GPND) is available for students with or without a DPD verification statement.

The full-time UHM GPND (with DPD verification statement) is 4 semesters in length for the Plan B option and can be up to 6 for the Plan A option. The UHM GPND (without DPD verification statement) is 6 semesters in length for the Plan B option and can be up to 8 for the Plan A option.. In extenuating circumstances the GPND allows up to 150% of the full time program or up to 200% if approved by the Director.

The UHM GPND will accept students to begin in fall semester only.

 Admission Requirements for the UHM GPND include the following:

All of the requirements below are considered together using a point ranking system.  This point ranking system is used in the selection process to rank applicants in order.  Students who are in the final stage of selection process will be invited to an interview by a UHM GPND Admission Committee.  The interview will be conducted in person or via Zoom.

• Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution and ACEND accredited DPD program verification statement or statement of intent OR Bachelorʻs Degree and completion of the following courses:
  • Nutritional Biochemistry, Lifespan Nutrition, Nutrition Assessment, Introductory Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry , Food Science/Food Preparation
• Overall GPA of 3.2 or higher.  A GPA of 4.0 is desired.  Lower GPA may be considered on a case-by-case basis.  Relevant work experience beyond that required for undergraduate course requirements (may be paid or volunteer).

The Admissions Committee of the UHM GPND considers the following qualities in the selection process:

• Academic ability
• Communication skills
• Leadership potential
• Evidence of the ability to be self- directed and organized
• Commitment to the profession of dietetics
• Technological skills
• If not living on Oʻahu, confirmation from preceptors and facilities who are willing to have student complete rotations in MNT, Community, Food Service and Electives (1000 hours total)

Health Vaccination Requirements Required within 2 Months of Admission:

No later than two months from notification of admission and acceptance into the GPND program, interns will be required to provide the following:

Hepatitis B vaccination and surface antibody screening requirements: Hepatitis B vaccination must be verified by a Surface AB titer indicating a positive/reactive or immune reading. Negative/nonreactive results for the hepatitis B surface antibody titer must be addressed according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization guidelines (at least 2 months ahead of the rotation start date). 

Tuberculosis screening requirements (meet one of the following options):

1) Two Mantoux TB skin-tests within the past 12 months; or

2) Two-step Mantoux TB Skin-test should be done within the past 12 months; or 

3) Chest x-ray with normal finding with in the last 12 month of the entry date. 

Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella IgG antibody test requirements:

Vaccinations may be verified by a MMR titer and Varicella titer indicating a positive/reactive or immune reading 

Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)

Meningococcal (MCV) 

Apply

APPLICATION DEADLINE February 1 for the Fall Semester

This information along with application materials may be found a:  Graduate Division - Nutritional Sciences

 STEPS

• Complete University of Hawaii Graduate Admissions Application online
  
• Submit Original transcripts from academic institutions attended (even though a degree was not earned). Transcripts must be sent directly to:
  
  Graduate Division
  2540 Maile Way
  Spalding Hall 354
  Honolulu, Hawaii  96822
  
  
• Upload the following documents to the Graduate Application Supplemental Documents Upload Website:
  
        1.  Resume
        2.  Statement of Purpose (<1000 words) which clearly describes the following:
  • Your reason for wanting to attend graduate school and pursue career in nutrition and dietetics
  • Your research interests and experience
  • Your career goals
• Use the Graduate Application Supplemental Documents Upload Website to request a minimum of Two confidential letters of recommendation from people who know your academic strengths and can comment on your suitability for graduate studies. In addition letters from sites who are willing to have the student for supervised practice hours, will need MNT, outpatient, food service, community, and elective sites.
  
• Send official GRE General Test scores directly to the Office of Graduate Education.  Applicants may submit unofficial scores while applying for admission.  However, admitted students are required to submit official scores in order to enroll at UHM, The Educational Testing Service (ETS) code for UHM is 4867.
  
• Non-native speakers of English must send TOEFL scores or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic scores.  Applicants are exempt from the TOEFL or IELTS if they are native speakers of English or have received, within the last five years, a bachelor's or advanced degree from an accredited/recognized college or university in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, United Kingdom, or the United States.

3. DPD verification statement or letter of intent

FAQ

Do you give preference to University of Hawaii students?

Preference will be given to University of Hawaii Students and Hawaii residents. However all applicants will be considered.

What factors are considered for acceptance into your SP?

The University of Hawaii Supervised Practice considers a variety of factors including grades, work or volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, a personal statement. An overall GPA of 3.2 is required in order to be accepted into the SP. Students who are in the final stage of selection process will be invited to an interview by the selection committee. The interview will be conducted in person or via Skype.

Do you have any advice for if I don't get accepted into the University of Hawaii Supervised Practice?

Students may reapply a second time to our SP. If you are not accepted into the UH Supervised Practice, the best advice is to contact the director and discuss your application. General advice; take a graduate class and/or obtain work experience.

Do you give credit for prior work experience?

No

How often do I need to travel to the University Of Hawaii Campus?

You may need to travel to campus during your SP for Orientation, meetings and monthly Seminars. However, these training sessions may also be scheduled at one of the facilities affiliated with the UH Supervised Practice.

Can I complete any of my rotations in the facility in which I currently work?

Yes, with the approval of the GPND program director and if the facility has an existing UHM Affiliation Agreement. Note, care should be taken to ensure that you are not performing your regular work duties on SP time. They must be kept separate. SP activities are tracked in a weekly journal or weekly learning log.

What if something happens to my preceptor during my rotation?

If another staff member is not available to take over as preceptor, then you will be transferred to another facility to complete the rotation requirements.

How do I prepare for the Registration Exam for Dietitians?

Graduates of the Supervised Practice are able to use the materials they accumulated in their SP to study for the registration exam. There are review courses available such as the Jean Inman Review, online resources such as DietitianExam.com, and many other resources available to study for the exam. You will be given more information on the best resources to use to prepare for the exam throughout the Supervised Practice. The SP begins preparing students for the RD Exam during the Orientation Program in mid-August. We provide online RD exam questions that you take as a pre and post-test during the Supervised Practice. A study guide is available from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at: www.eatright.org/6442465238/

When do I take the Registration Examination for Dietitians?

The Registration Examination for Dietitians is taken after you have successfully completed the Supervised Practice. The registration exam is offered in a computer based format and is administered by ACT at testing centers throughout the U.S. For more information on the exam, read this fact sheet from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. http://www.cdrnet.org/certifications/rddtr/cbtfaq.cfm

Computer Based Testing Fact Sheet

http://cdrnet.org/certifications/computer-based-testing-fact-sheet

Q. Why did CDR choose to implement computerized testing for its entry-level examinations?

A. The Commission made the decision to implement computerized testing for the entry-level examinations because it recognized the many advantages it offers to examinees. These include:

• Flexible test administration dates; examinees can schedule testing throughout the year;
• Retesting available 45 days following the previous test date;
• Unique examination based on each examinee’s entry-level competence;
• Score reports distributed to examinees as they leave the test site
• Eliminating the six-week waiting period required with paper and pencil testing.

Q. What is the difference between computer based testing (CBT) and computer adaptive testing (CAT)?

A. Computer based testing (CBT) is an umbrella term used to describe several types of examinations administered by computer. These tests may range from conventional multiple-choice tests administered on a personal computer to virtual reality simulations.

Computer adaptive testing (CAT) is a specific type of computer based testing. An adaptive test is commonly shorter than a traditional paper-and-pencil test. CAT also results in more measurement efficiency as it administers questions that provide the most important information about the examinee’s competence.

Q. Where will the computerized examinations be administered?

A. CDR’s testing agency, ACT, Inc., has developed their own testing network to administer the examinations at over 225 approved test sites nationwide, located in universities and community colleges. More centers are scheduled to become available in the future. Candidates will receive the most updated test center listing at the time of test registration. Centers are subject to change.

Q. How often will the computerized examinations be administered?

A. The examinations will be administered year round at over 225 ACT Centers nationwide. All test sites are open Monday through Friday with some centers also open on Saturdays. Eligible candidates will be instructed to call a toll free number to schedule an appointment to take the examination.

Q. How much is the application fee?

A. The application fee for dietitians is $200 and s $120 for dietetic technicians.

Q. Will the examination application, sent with the Handbook for Candidates by ACT, expire?

A. The examination application expires one year after it is issued by ACT. If you do not complete and return the examination application within this one-year time period, you must contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration to request a new application.

Q. Does the authorization to take the examination expire?

A. Yes. The CDR Authorization to Test expires after the test is taken or one (1) year after authorization, whichever occurs first. This means that if examinees are unsuccessful they must contact CDR in order to take the test again. It is important to note that some employers and licensure boards may establish shorter limits on the testing authorization period.

Q. How many questions will be on the Registration Examination for Dietitians?

A. The examination will be variable length. Each examinee will be given, and must receive, a minimum of one hundred and twenty-five questions: one hundred (100) scored questions and twenty-five (25) pretest questions in order for the examination to be scored. The maximum number of questions possible is one hundred and forty-five (145): one hundred and twenty (120) scored questions, and twenty-five (25) un-scored pretest questions.

Q. How many questions will be on the Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians?

A. The examination will be variable length. Each examinee will be given, and must receive, a minimum of one hundred and ten (110) questions; eighty (80) scored questions and thirty (30) pretest questions in order for the examination to be scored. The maximum number of questions possible is one hundred and thirty (130); one hundred scored questions and thirty (30) unscored pretest questions.

Q. How often does the examination content outline (test specifications) change?

A. The content outline changes following the review and analysis of the Dietetics Practice Audit. The current content outline took effect in January 1, 2022.

Q. Why are there more pretest questions on the Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians than the Registration Examination for Dietitians?

A. It is important that new questions be pre-tested for both examinations on a regular basis. The Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians was only administered once per year until 1996 and coupled with a small examinee volume reduced the number of pretest questions administered each year. With computerized testing and year round administration, CDR can pretest more questions and increase the bank of questions.

Q. How much time will examinees have to complete the examination?

A. Examinees will be allowed 3 hours to take the examination and complete an introductory tutorial. The timer/clock will begin with question one of the examination. Examinees will have 2 ½ hours to complete the examination once the timer/clock begins. The examinee will have the option to hide the clock during the examination.

Q. Will a calculator be provided at the test center?

A. Yes. A simple calculator is provided at each computer workstation. Examinees are not permitted to bring their own calculator. Each calculator should be examined and tested prior to the beginning of the examination.

Q. Will the test questions be in multiple-choice format?

A. Yes. The question format continues to remain the same as it had been on the pencil-paper examination. (Refer to the Handbook for Candidates sample questions.)

Q. Will the test questions be numbered?

A. Yes. The examination questions will be numbered.

Q. Will examinees be allowed to change question responses, skip questions, or review question responses?

A. No. Each question will require a response in order to continue the examination process. Once an examinee answers a question and continues to the next question, the examinee is not permitted to review or change previous examination questions/responses.

Q. Will there be staff available at the test center in case the computer malfunctions?

A. Yes. Each test center will be staffed with personnel to assist examinees in the event of a computer malfunction. Examinees will be asked to wait approximately forty-five minutes while the computer problem is investigated. If it is not possible to resolve the problem in this timeframe, examinees will be rescheduled to test as soon as possible.

Q. How should I report scheduling or onsite testing problems?

A. If you experience difficulty either during scheduling or testing, please contact ACT at 319/337-1315.

Q. Will the Commission continue to make special accommodations for examinees with disabilities?

A. Yes. The Commission will continue to make reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities, provided appropriate medical documentation is submitted with the request for special testing accommodations. Refer to the Handbook for Candidates for specific documentation requirements.

Q. When will examinees receive their score report?

A. Score reports will be distributed to examinees as they leave the test center.

Q. Is the score report distributed by the testing center official?

A. No, the examination results are subject to verification by CDR.

Q. What information will be included on the examinee score report?

A. The examinee score report will include the examinee’s scaled score and the scaled score required to pass the examination. In addition, scaled sub-scores for the Food and Nutrition Sciences (Domains I, II, and III) and Foodservice Systems/Management (Domains IV and V) areas will be reported.

Q. Will examinees be given an opportunity to become familiar with the computer before beginning the test?

A. Yes. Examinees will be allowed to take a tutorial on the computer prior to beginning the actual examination. This tutorial will include detailed instructions on taking the computerized examination and provide an opportunity to respond to practice questions.

Q. Are there any other materials available to assist examinees in preparing to write the examination?

A. The Commission on Dietetic Registration publishes two study guides; Study Guide for the Registration Examination for Dietitians; and Study Guide for the Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians. Both study guides include a comprehensive study outline, references and practice examination. The practice examination is provided in both hard copy and CD-ROM versions. The CD-ROM has been designed to simulate the actual computerized examination.

Q. Will dietetics education Supervised Practice directors receive institutional score reports?

A. Yes. Supervised Practice directors will receive institutional reports in February and August of each year. The institutional score report will include scaled scores for SP graduates (examinee names will only be included if the examinee authorized release of scores with examinee name), percentile ranks, national mean scores, institutional examinee mean scores, and scaled sub-scores for Food and Nutrition Sciences (Domains I, II, and III) and Foodservice Systems/Management (Domains IV and V).

Q. Will the scaled score required to pass the examination change from the current minimum passing scaled score of twenty-five (25)?

A. The scaled score required to pass the examination will remain 25 on a scale of one (1) to fifty (50).

Q. How soon can unsuccessful examinees retake the registration examination?

A. Examinees will be allowed to retest forty-five (45) days after taking the examination unsuccessfully. They must contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration to be reauthorized as examination-eligible and pay the current examination application fee.

Q. If the examinee decides to stop before responding to the minimum number of questions required to make a pass/fail decision, will the examinee's score be reported as a "fail?"

A. No. If an examinee does not respond to the minimum number of questions required to make a pass/fail decision, the examination will not be scored. The examinee will receive a form documenting their decision to quit the examination. The examinee must contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration to be reauthorized to test. No refunds will be provided.

Q. Under what conditions must the examinee contact the Commission on Dietetic Registration to be reauthorized to test?

A. The examinee must contact the Commission to be reauthorized to test:

• when the examinee fails the examination
• when the examinee’s one-year authorization period ends
• when the candidate fails to cancel the testing appointment within the specified timeline
• when the candidate arrives late for the scheduled testing appointment, when the candidate does not complete the examination during the test appointment.

Q. How long after candidates complete registration eligibility requirements will it take to be authorized to test?

A. The entire process from the time the Commission on Dietetic Registration receives the eligibility application to the time the candidate receives the Authorization to Test letter is 3 to 6 weeks dependent on first-class mail delivery and prompt candidate response to the examination application mailing.

Q. How often may examinees take the registration examination?

A. Once an examinee establishes eligibility to take the examination there is no limit on the number of times an examinee may take the examination, provided the examinee waits the required 45 days between test dates. Please check with your state licensure board for state specific requirements regarding retesting for licensure purposes.

Q. Why did CDR choose to give examinees different questions and a variable length test?

A. The Commission made the decision to administer a unique variable length test to examinees for two reasons:

• Reducing the number of examinees who “see” each question enhances test security and ultimately the credibility of both the RD and DTR credentials.
• Administering only the number of questions needed to accurately assess the individual examinee’s competence to practice results in a shorter testing time for all examinees: maximum of 2½ hours versus the maximum of four hour and twenty minute testing time with the paper-pencil test.
• The length of the test will be shorter for those examinees that clearly pass or clearly fail after responding to the minimum number of questions (110 questions for DTR and 125 questions for RD).

Q. Is a variable length test with different questions for each examinee equitable?

A. The computerized examinations are fair to all examinees for the following reasons:

• Flexible test administration dates; examinees can schedule testing throughout the year
• All examinees are given the opportunity to respond to the precise number of questions required to measure accurately their competence to practice at the entry-level.
• The minimum/maximum number of questions presented to examinees has been established based on actual simulation studies
• All examinations are scored following the same passing standard.
• All examinations conform to the test specifications (content outline) for either the Registration Examination for Dietitians or the Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians.

Q. Will the questions change in difficulty as I progress thru the CBT exam?

A. No. The purpose of CDR's computerized examinations is to classify candidates as ready to practice or not ready to practice safely. Consequently, the item selection process chooses items that are most discriminating at the cut score. If a candidate is borderline, then all items will seem difficult.

Q. Does the difficulty level of the computer-based exam become more difficult if a candidate takes it more than one time?

A. No. The CDR exams are computer based exams and there is nothing in the administration algorithm that identifies a candidate as a repeat candidate. The nature of the items or questions that a candidate receives is not based on the number of times the exam is taken.

If you analyze item performance after the fact, it is true that repeat candidates do not perform as well as the total population, but that would be true if we were to look only at failing candidates. When repeat candidates are mixed in with the total population, the high performance of the majority cover over the performance of the few.

Q. Have the computer-based registration examinations been pilot-tested?

A. In preparation for the implementation of computer-based testing for the entry-level registration examinations, CDR’s testing agency, ACT Inc., conducted simulation studies of both the dietitian and dietetic technician question pools. These studies were designed to validate that the questions would provide the information required to make a valid pass/fail decision on a computer-based examination.

Computer-based examinations have been used by many professions for both licensing and certification, since the early 1990’s. Based on the experience of these professions, the psychometric community recognizes computer-based and paper-pencil examinations as comparable.

Curriculum

• Orientation
  • An orientation program is held the week prior to the start of the fall semester. Orientation is held virtually.
  • All students admitted to the Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics must attend this orientation program.
  • The purpose of this experience is to help students make the transition to graduate studies and the professional practice environment.
• Supervised Practice Hours
  
  
  • Interns complete their SP hours and competencies among various rotations- Alternate Supervised Practice Experiences, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Outpatient, Food Service Management, Community Nutrition and Elective. It is expected that students will progress through the rotation beginning with simpler tasks and progress to the more complex.
  • Students must use time management skills and plan accordingly to meet the rotation objectives. By the end of the rotation, students are expected to function with minimal guidance by the preceptor. The curriculum is designed to provide flexibility to account for varying types of experiences within a designated facility. 
  • SP experiences are granted academic credit for the MS Nutritional Sciences RDN concentration through FSHN 667. 
• The MS Nutritional Sciences RDN Concentration includes required coursework as well as other degree requirements outlined below.   More information can be found on the MS Nutritional Sciences program website. There are 2 pathways of the program, each requiring different coursework (DPD holders- for those who obtained DPD verification statement prior to enrollment and non-DPD holders- for those who did not obtain DPD verification statement prior to enrollment 
• DPD Holders: MS RDN Concentration Required Coursework:
  • FSHN 601
  • FSHN 681 
  • FSHN 689
  • FSHN 685 
  • Public Health 655 (3) Biostatistics
  • FSHN 667 (5 credits, repeatable up to 2 times; total 15 credits)
  • FSHN 668 (1 credit, repeatable 1 time; total 2 credits)
  • FSHN 699 Directed Reading and Research (2 credits Plan A or 1 Credit Plan B)
  • FSHN 700 Thesis Research (10 credits) (Plan A only)
• non-DPD Holders: MS RDN Concentration Required Coursework:
  • FSHN 467
  • FSHN 642
  • FSHN 451
  • FSHN 641
  • FSHN 468
  • FSHN 469
  • FSHN 601 (2)  The Science of Food Systems
  • FSHN 681 (1)  Seminar in Food and Nutritional Sciences
  • FSHN 689 (3)  Nutritional Epidemiology
  • FSHN 685 (3)  Nutrition and Disease:  Cellular and Molecular Aspects
  • Public Health 655 (3) Biostatistics
  • FSHN 667 Dietetics Supervised Practice (5 credits, repeatable up to 2 times; total 15 credits)
  • FSHN 668 Seminar for Dietetic Interns (1 credit, repeatable 1 time; total 2 credits)
  • FSHN 699 Directed Reading and Research (2 credits Plan A or 1 Credit Plan B)
  • FSHN 700 Thesis Research (10 credits) (Plan A only)

• All students must complete the following Degree Requirements
  • Complete all required coursework
  • Pass an oral candidacy exam of basic knowledge related to the Nutritional Sciences (Basic Nutrition, Nutritional Biochemistry, Research Methods)
  • A final examination based on Thesis Research (Plan A) OR A final examination based on approved Plan B activity.
  • One (1) semester of teaching assistant experience

Sample DPD holders MS RDN Concentration Timeline (Plan B Option, recommended)

Fall 1: Coursework: FSHN 685, 601, PH 655; Develop Plan B project proposal, Teaching Experience (rec: FSHN 486, 468, 370, 389)

Spring 1: Coursework: FSHN 689, FSHN 667 (Alternate Supervised Practice Experience- 300 hours); 

Summer 1: Study for oral qualifying exam; Work on Plan B project

Fall 2: Coursework: FSHN 668, FSHN 667, FSHN 699, (MNT, Outpatient, Community, Food Service or Elective- 350 hours); Take oral qualifying exam; Work on Plan B project

Spring 2: Coursework FSHN 681, FSHN 667 (MNT, Outpatient, Community, Food Service or Elective- 350 hours), FSHN 699; Complete and present Plan B project

Sample non DPD holders MS RDN Concentration Timeline (Plan B Option, recommended)

Fall 1: Coursework: FSHN 467, 642, 451

Spring 1: Coursework: FSHN 641, 468, 469

Summer 1: Study for oral qualifying exam

Fall 2: Coursework: FSHN 685, 601, PH 655; Develop Plan B project proposal, Teaching Experience (rec: FSHN 486, 468, 370, 389)

Spring 2: Coursework: FSHN 689, FSHN 667 (Alternate Supervised Practice Experience- 300 hours); Take oral qualifying exam

Summer 2: Work on Plan B project

Fall 3: Coursework: FSHN 668, FSHN 667, FSHN 699, (MNT, Outpatient, Community, Food Service or Elective- 350 hours); Work on Plan B project

Spring 3: Coursework FSHN 681, FSHN 699, FSHN 667 (MNT, Outpatient, Community, Food Service or Elective- 350 hours), FSHN 699; Complete and present Plan B project

Distance Learning

Because this program is 100% distance there are technology requirements.

• You must have access to a computer with e-mail and Internet capabilities.
• Courses are offered using the Universityʻs learning management system. Guides are available online to help you learn and understand more about the online learning management system.
• Discussion and interaction most often takes place via zoom, e-mail, discussion groups or chat rooms on-line.
• Minimum computer equipment and software specifications are:

• A computer (no more than 5 years old if possible) will be needed for at least some course elements with camera. 
• 1GB of RAM (if you have minimal RAM, you may want to avoid having many other programs open at the same time you are using Canvas)
• 2 GHz processor
• Network card and reliable internet connection: 512 kbps minimum, but a high-speed connection is recommended.
• Recent version of Flash (used for recording or viewing audio/video and uploading files) and Adobe Reader/Acrobat
• Word Processor/Spreadsheet: Google Docs, Google Sheets or Microsoft Word 2003 or Excel are recommended 
• Sound card and speakers
• Required: microphone and headphones for live participation.

Evaluation

The Verification Statement from University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (GPND) that establishes eligibility to take the national registration exam is granted only when the student has demonstrated competence as an entry-level practitioner through satisfactory completion of all components of all scheduled supervised practice rotations, projects and requirements.

In order to receive the verification statement students must:

• Meet all Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) competencies. These core competencies specify what every dietitian should be able to do at the beginning of his or her practice career. The core competency statements build on appropriate knowledge and skills necessary for the entry-level practitioner to perform reliably in the professional practice setting.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviors and academic integrity as well as competence in the areas of communication, time management, problem solving and critical thinking.
• Exhibit satisfactory performance in accordance with the Professional Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics on all required assignments, projects, curricula, rotation objectives, case studies, presentations, and exams.
• Comply with policies and procedures of the GPND as specified in this manual as well as the policies and procedures established by all affiliating institutions. It is important that students familiarize themselves with all policies and procedures of the GPND and all facilities. 
• Complete a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised practice
• Meet professional practice expectations as outlined by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Code of Ethics
• Demonstrate expert performance and competency throughout rotations as evaluated by GPND faculty members and facility preceptors
• Completion of all MS Nutritional Sciences graduate degree requirements.

Program Completion and Verification Statement

Upon completion of the GPND students will receive (either via email or mail) a verification of completion certificate and be eligible to take the national Registration Examination for Dietitians within 2 weeks of completion of the GPND program. The program director utilizes Trajecsys evaluation reports and submitted assignments from FSHN 667 and 668 to determine completion of the GPND program. The Director will notify Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) when students have completed all requirements for eligibility for the Registration Examination. Upon notification from CDR, it will be the graduate’s responsibility to make arrangements to take the exam. Graduation from the MS Nutritional Sciences program is also required and will be verified prior to provision of the verification statement.

Requirements for Preceptors and Facilities

• The Preceptor must be a full-time employee at the selected facility. The primary Preceptor may be a part-time employee if a qualified secondary preceptor is available to supervise the student when the primary Preceptor is not available.
• Each Preceptor must submit a resume or curricula vitae. He/she must have appropriate credentials and work experience to mentor the student in the specified rotation.
• A facility form will be submitted for each rotation. The following is a list of acceptable types of facilities:
  • Facilities for Clinical Dietetics Acute care and/or long term institution. The Preceptor must be a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) with a minimum of one-year of work experience after credentialing.
  • Food Service School food service, University Dining Services or a health care facility. The Preceptor must be a food service director or supervisor.
  • Community All students must complete a rotation in public health. Students will be placed in a facility to provide community management experience. Other types of facilities to complete the community nutrition experiences include: The Cooperative Extension, (WIC) Women Infant Children, Food Bank, Head Start, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), and Child-Adult Care Feeding Program.

Throughout the Supervised Practice Students are expected to obtain learning experiences with a variety of populations, diverse cultures and in various settings. Student rotations to include experiences with Populations: infants, children, adolescents, adults, pregnant/lactating females, and the elderly, Settings: acute care, critical care, outpatient, long-term care, wellness program and public health/community settings (schools and WIC or WIC equivalents as outlined in the community rotation section),Conditions/Disease States: weight management/obesity, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases and renal diseases.

Preceptor Responsibilities

• Preceptors need to read all application materials provided for the student. They must have adequate time to supervise, mentor and evaluate the student.
• The Preceptor must assure that the student will be able to accomplish all the learning experiences outlined in the rotation materials.
• The Preceptor is responsible for scheduling all learning experiences for the student during the specified rotation.
• It is expected that the Preceptor will provide feedback to the student regarding observed strengths and weaknesses on a regular basis. The Preceptor will conduct the performance evaluation of the student and act as the point of contact in the facility with the Supervised Practice faculty. SP faculty will schedule a time to discuss the performance evaluation by meeting with the student and preceptor at the facility or by telephone conference during the last week of the rotation.
• Preceptors must agree to fulfill the curriculum and abide by the policies and procedures of the University of Hawaii Supervised Practice.

GPND Faculty Responsibilities

• Provide curriculum and evaluation materials.
• Review and grade all student assignments.
• Contact Preceptor and/or student periodically to discuss rotation experiences.
• Track student progress via an online journal and learning log.
• Be available for consultation as necessary.
• Be available for all evaluations in person or via telephone conferencing.

Formal Assessment of Student Learning

Formal assessment of student learning and regular reports of performance and progress are provided at specified intervals  throughout supervised practice rotations using specifically prepared SP forms. Evaluations include both assessments of the student’s progress as well as assessments of the student’s knowledge and performance. Preceptors completing the evaluation use the provided form and review with the student prior to signatures. 

It is the student’s responsibility to be familiar with the various evaluation forms so that he/she is aware of the criteria and timing for each evaluation. The form is returned to the Preceptor and/or Director. Student forms are provided for the student to evaluate his/her experience in the rotation as well. These forms are used to facilitate improvements in the SP and provide feedback to Preceptors.

Rating for the supervised practice component will be based on:

• Written Evaluations from Preceptors and Director
• Competency Achievement (Rating Scale 0-5; passing with a minimum score of 4 out of 5)
• Exams
• Assignments, Presentations and Projects
• Demonstration of minimum supervised practice hours 
• MNT for Conditions and Populations

Many opportunities exist for informal feedback about performance. These should be viewed as positive opportunities to gain insight and adjust performance. Examples of informal evaluation include, but are not limited to, daily feedback/discussions with Preceptors on skill development, clinical documentation, presentations and projects.

A self-evaluation by the student is also required at the end of each rotation. In addition, daily feedback on performance will be given to each student by the Preceptor.

Student achievement is designated with a letter grade A - F.

Expenses

Tuition  

Students of the MS Nutritional Sciences RDN concentration are enrolled through the University of Hawaiʻi Outreach College. See the UH Outreach College Tuition and Fee Schedule.  Notably, all students pay the same rate regardless of in or out of state residency and 400-level courses are offered at a lower rate than 600-level courses. 

Additional Estimated Costs over Tuition:

The estimated costs are listed below and are subject to change.

The UHM GPND requires all students to have health insurance.

The UHM GPND requires access to a vehicle. Students are required to provide their own transportation to all rotation sites in Hawai'i. The student must have vehicle insurance. The UHM GPND is not liable for any accidents or injuries that occur while the student is  en route to or at planned learning experiences.

Housing and meal costs are the responsibility of the student. The UHM GPND does not provide or arrange for housing for students. Arrangements can be made through the Office of Student Affairs.

Withdrawal and Refund of Tuition and Course Fees 

Visit HERE for the most up to date information on withdrawal and refunds. 

Financial Aid

Private student loans may be available through banks and credit unions.

Scholarships may be available through the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa and Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences. For more information, follow the link for scholarship application procedures on the Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences website: http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/hnfas/. 

Lifetime Learning Tax Credits

Eligible taxpayers may be able to claim a tax credit for UHM Outreach College courses that are taken to acquire or improve job skills. Find more information on the web at http://www.irs.ustreas.gov or contact your tax advisor.

Schedule and Rotations

Schedule  

The GPND program operates on the academic calendar. See the curriculum tab for more information on courses for each semester. 

While in supervised practice, interns spend approximately 32 hours per week at facilities, Monday through Friday, daily start and finish times vary based on the operations of the site. Holidays are observed based on the facility at which the intern is completing hours and interns may be assigned an alternate day to make up missed hours for holidays. Prior to the start of each rotation, interns and preceptors meet (either face to face, virtually, or communicate via email) to establish the schedule. Interns are required to plan and develop at least one community nutrition event, which could take place on a weekend or in the evening. 

GPND Coursework and Rotation Descriptions

FSHN 667: Dietetics Supervised Practice

Dietetics Supervised Practice is a graduate level course that is offered to students currently enrolled in the MS Nutritional Sciences- RDN concentration. The course contributes to the fulfillment of the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) supervised practice component for RDN eligibility. Graduates of the MS RDN concentration program fulfill all ACEND requirements and completion results in eligibility for the registered dietitian exam. FSHN 667 is a 5 credit course, repeatable 2 times where students apply knowledge gained from DPD studies to the field of dietetics by completing hours under supervision of an RDN in various settings (inpatient hospital, inpatient food service departments, retail food service, community health centers, and other settings). Students complete assignments and activities to support development of entry level competency into the dietetics profession. FSHN 667 is offered in a hybrid format to accommodate students completing remote supervised practice learning. Technology requirements for this course include a computer or laptop with capabilities to share video and audio and access to the internet. 

FSHN 668: Advanced Topics in Dietetics

Advanced Topics in Dietetics is a graduate level course that is offered to students currently enrolled in the MS Nutritional Sciences- RDN concentration. The course contributes to the fulfillment of the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) supervised practice component for RDN eligibility. Graduates of the MS RDN concentration and GPND program fulfill all ACEND requirements and completion results in eligibility for the registered dietitian exam. FSHN 668 is a 1 credit course, repeatable 1 time where students apply knowledge gained from DPD studies to the field of dietetics. Students complete assignments and activities to support development of entry level competency into the dietetics profession in inpatient hospital, inpatient food service departments, retail food service, community health centers, and other settings. FSHN 668 is offered in a hybrid format to accommodate students completing remote supervised practice learning. Technology requirements for this course include a computer or laptop with capabilities to share video and audio and access to the internet. 

Medical Nutrition Therapy Rotation

The Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) rotation takes place in clinical, inpatient settings. Activities and assignments outlined will ensure that interns gain practice and are evaluated on CRDNs applicable to the MNT rotation. Some of the required assignments include a Case Study Presentation and the Complex Study Report. Preceptors and interns work together to identify the activities and assignments from the toolkit provided, that the intern will complete in order to achieve all required ACEND CRDNs. (320 hours)

Outpatient Rotation

Outpatient Nutrition rotations take place in clinical, private practice settings, where services are delivered in-person and via telehealth. Some of the required assignments include Providing Group Nutrition Presentations for MNT or Wellness Education, Providing One-On-One Nutrition Therapy Counseling, and a Group Nutrition Presentation Proposal. Preceptors and interns work together to identify the activities and assignments that the intern will complete in order to achieve all required ACEND CRDNs. (96 hours)

Food Service Rotation

Food Service Management rotations take place in a variety of food service institutions (schools, hospital facilities, long term care, etc). One of the required assignments includes a Theme Menu Project. Preceptors and interns work together to identify the activities and assignments that the intern will complete in order to achieve all required ACEND CRDNs. (192 hours)

Community Rotation

Community Nutrition rotations take place in a variety of settings; community health centers, foundations, department of health, food banks, and more. Some of the required assignments include Providing Group Nutrition Presentations for MNT or Wellness Education, Providing One-On-One Nutrition Therapy Counseling, a Group Nutrition Presentation Proposal, and a Mock Grant Proposal. Preceptors and interns work together to identify the activities and assignments that the intern will complete in order to achieve all required ACEND CRDNs. (192 hours)

Elective Rotations

Interns select elective rotations based on personal interests, some sites include research, social media/marketing, specialized nutrition intervention settings, and more. Preceptors and interns identify assignments and activities applicable to their elective setting. In the case that the intern and preceptor would like to create an assignment or activity, the intern identifies the ACEND CRDNs addressed by assignment/activity and documents the decision-making process leading to the creation of the new assignment/activity. (200 hours)

Rotation Resources

Each rotation has a toolkit developed that outlines instructions, activities, assignments, and evaluations for the rotation. Toolkits are updated annually and provided to both interns and preceptors.

Facilities 

UHM has a number of existing Affiliation Agreements. Students completing their program and living on Oahu will not have to identify their own supervised practice sites. All other students will have to identify their own supervised practice sites. The program director will maintain a list of sites with existing affiliation agreements to assist prospective students in identifying sites. The program director will work closely with students and preceptors at facilities to plan supervised practice rotations and experiences. Students will need to have identified preceptors and facilities who have agreed to have the intern for admission into the program. Upon admission into the program the program director will begin the process of establishing the Affiliation Agreement. 

Policies and Procedures

Click HERE for the Policies and Procedures Handbook.

Other Information

Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics

Fundamental Principles

The dietetics practitioner:

1. Conducts herself/himself with honesty, integrity and fairness.
2. Supports and promotes high standards of professional practice and accepts the obligation to protect clients, the public and the profession by upholding the Code of Ethics and reporting perceived violations of the Code.

Responsibilities to the public

1. Consider the health, safety and welfare of the public at all times.
2. Complies with all laws and regulations applicable or related to the profession or to the practitioner’s ethical obligations as described in the Code.
3. Provides professional services with objectivity and with respect for the unique needs and values of individuals.
4. Does not engage in false or misleading practices or communications.
5. Withdraws from professional practice when unable to fulfill his/her professional duties and responsibilities to clients and others.

Responsibilities to clients

1. Recognizes and exercises professional judgment within the limits of his/her qualifications and collaborates with others, seeks counsel, or makes referrals as appropriate.
2. Treats clients and patients with respect and consideration.
3. Protects confidential information and makes full disclosure about any limitations on his/her ability to guarantee full confidentiality.
4. In dealing with and providing services to clients and others, complies with the same principles set forth above in principles 3-7.

Responsibilities to the profession

1. Practices dietetics based on evidence-based principles and current information.
2. Presents reliable and substantiated information and interprets controversial information without personal bias, recognizing that legitimate differences of opinion exist.
3. Assumes a life-long responsibility and accountability for personal competence in practice, consistent with accepted professional standards, continually striving to increase professional knowledge and skills and to apply them in practice.
4. Is alert to the occurrence of a real or potential conflict of interest and takes appropriate action whenever a conflict arises.
5. Permits the use of his/her name for the purpose of certifying the dietetics services have been rendered only if he/she has provided or supervised the provision of those services.
6. Accurately presents professional qualifications and credentials.
7. Does not invite, accept or offer gifts, monetary incentives or other considerations that affect or reasonably give an appearance of affecting his/her professional judgment.

Responsibilities to colleagues and other professionals

1. Demonstrates respect for the values, rights, knowledge and skills of colleagues and other professionals.

Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics. J Am Dietetic Association 2009; 109:1461-1467.

Access to Personal Files

Student Records

The rights of students under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 include the following: Act include the following, (a) the right to inspect and review education records, (b) the right to request to amend education records, (c) the right of protection from disclosure by UH Manoa of personally identifiable information contained in education records without permission of the student involved, (d) the right to waive certain rights under the Act, and (e) the right to file complaints concerning alleged failure by UH Manoa to comply with the Act.

Students are advised that institutional policy and procedures required under the Act have been published as Administrative Procedure A7.022, "Procedures Relating to Protection of the Educational Rights and Privacy of Students." Copies of APA7.022 may be obtained from the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Students website:manoa.hawaii.edu/ovcaa/

Protection of Privacy – Student Information

Students are advised that certain personally identifiable information is considered by UH Manoa to be directory information and, in response to public inquiry, may be disclosed in conformance with state law, at UH Manoa's discretion, without prior consent of the student unless the student requests that UH Manoa not disclose such information. This includes (a) name of student, (b) current address and ZIP code, (c) telephone number, (d) email address, (e) major field of study, (f) educational level (e.g., freshman, sophomore, etc.), (g) dates of attendance, (h) enrollment status (full-time or part-time), (i) participation in officially recognized activities and sports, (j) weight and height of members of athletic teams, (k) most recent educational institution attended, and (l) degrees and awards received. A student has the right to request that any or all of the above items not be designated directory information with respect to that student. Should a student wish to exercise this right, he or she must in person and in writing, not earlier than the first day of instruction, nor later than 14 calendar days from the first day of instruction for the academic term or semester, or the fourth day of a summer session, inform the campus registrar which of the above items are not to be disclosed without the prior consent of that student.

A parent or spouse of a student is advised that information contained in educational records, except as may be determined to be directory information, will not be disclosed to him/her without the prior written consent of the student.http://manoa.hawaii.edu/records/fac_staff/ferpa.html

Access to Student Support Services

The University of Hawaii offers several services for Supervised Practice students: All students have access to student academic support services which is important to ensure success while a student of the University of Hawaii. The Director or Preceptor will be prepared to help refer students to the appropriate resources.

Access to student academic support services is important to ensure your success while a student at the University of Hawaii. Below is a listing of some of these services that can also be found in the University of Hawaii catalog along with appropriate contact information:

Career Services Center The Manoa Career Center offers a wide variety of programs and services for students and alumni. The Manoa Career Center programs enhance the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM) experience by enabling students/alumni to develop skills in & out of the classroom. http://www.manoa.hawaii.edu/careercenter/

College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources’ Home Pagehttp://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/site Select “Academic and Student Affairs” will open all the programs up for students interested in all that CTAHR has to offer for Undergrad and Graduate Programs, financial aid/scholarship information, course requirements and information on who we are, Department, Faculty and Staff as well as publications and research projects.

Department of Human Nutrition, Food & Animal Sciences (HNFAS)http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/hnfas/ This web site shows the different programs, courses and resources available within the HNFAS department. UH Dietetic Student Handbook is located under “Degree Programs, Dietetics”. There is also a link to “Scholarships” that specifically targets dietetics students.

Food Science Human Nutrition (FSHN) Councilhttps://www2.hawaii.edu/~fshnnews/ The FSHN Council strives to nurture students' interest in dietetics, research, community wellness, food service and nutrition by providing the opportunity for students to network with other students, faculty, and professionals in food science, nutrition and other health-related fields. In addition to enhancing fellowship and facilitating communication, student members are exposed to career information, scholarship opportunities, and community service activities.

Information Technology Department Information Technology Center The new state-of-the-art Data Center will enable university-wide technology services to support education, research and administration for University of Hawaii campuses throughout the state of Hawaii, and will provide different ways in which digital information can be obtained and transformed for students, faculty, and administrators:

• A "Help Desk" will offer computer support online, wirelessly, or in person;
• Training rooms will facilitate classes and broadcast opportunities;
• Video conference facilities will support distance learning, multi-media displays, broadcast and archiving opportunities;
• A digital media production center will furnish high-end editing stations with advanced audio support, sound booths, training, and presentation capabilities. http://www.hawaii.edu/infosec/

International Student Services provides assistance to international students who come from more than countries to study at UH. Students are advised and helped to adjust to the local and U.S. cultures. http://www.hawaii.edu/issmanoa/

Kokua Program (Disability Access Services) provides disability access services to students with documented physical and/or mental disabilities. Services include alternative media production, counseling, early registration, note-taking, sign language interpreting, technology access, testing accommodations and campus transportation.http://www.hawaii.edu/kokua/

Learning Assistance Center provides academic counseling and assists students in developing learning skills to increase academic success. Assessment, counseling and support services are also available for students with learning disabilities.http://www.manoa.hawaii.edu/learning/

Manoa Advising Center serves as a first point of contact for advising and appropriate referrals for incoming students. http://www.manoa.hawaii.edu/mac/

My UH http://www.hawaii.edu/myuh/manoa This web site allows for on-line registration of classes. A schedule of classes, as well as class availability, is also provided.

New Student Orientation Program offers information sessions for first-time students and transfer students. http://www.hawaii.edu/nso/

Office of Graduate and Professional Education The Graduate Division provides opportunities for further study, research and professional training to students who have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. All of the graduate programs at UHM apply rigorous academic standards. Special emphasis is placed on the cultivation of scholarly attitudes and methods of research and creativityhttp://www.manoa.hawaii.edu/ovcafo/OrgChart2012/GradDivision/ChartI.pdf

Office of the Registrar The Office of the Registrar maintains students' academic records and provides services in registration, enrollment and degree verification, academic transcripts, and veterans' educational benefits.http://www.hawaii.edu/admrec/

Star site where you can access your transcripts and other information.https://www.star.hawaii.edu/

Student Financial Services http://www.hawaii.edu/fas/

Student Success Center at Sinclair Library offers students a place to study and provides information and skills and a place for students to work with librarians, mentors, tutors and counselors to meet individual needs.http://www.catalog.hawaii.edu/student-life/supportservices.htm

Student Support Services provides academic advising and planning, tutoring and mentoring to increase college retention, academic success and graduation rates.http://ww.catalog.hawaii.edu/student-life/supportservices.htm

UH Academic Calendar http://www.hawaii.edu/academics/calendar

UH Manoa General Catalog http://www.catalog.hawaii.edu/

University of Hawaii Health Center The UHSM is staffed by physicians, nurse clinicians, nurses, and other support staff. A wide range of medical services and programs are offered. http://www.hawaii.edu/shs/

University of Hawai'i Home page http://http://www.hawaii.edu/ All information for students covering how to apply, academic calendar, financial aid, catalog, transfer credit search, new database, on-campus activities, housing (dorms), parking, etc.

University of Hawai'i Library Hamilton and Sinclair Libraries are open to any individual who wishes to use materials inside the library buildings. Almost all materials are available on open shelves for self- retrieval. Selected materials are kept in protective storage and may not available to all library users, or may be available only for a fee to persons not affiliated with the University of Hawaii at Manoa. http://www. library.manoa.hawaii.edu/

Writing Center provides free services to equip students with appropriate writing skills so they can become better and more confident writers.http://www.english.hawaii.edu/writingcenter/

Professional Organizations

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics http://www.eatright.org This site is the home site for 70,000 nutrition professionals, mostly Registered Dietitians. It provides information about the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, its journal, dietetic registration process, dietetics education, member benefits and professional resources such as the evidence-based library.