Congratulations to our 2024 Graduating Class!!

To be eligible for the UF MS-DI program

Applicants must have completed, or be in the process of completing, an accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) for their bachelor's degree and either have obtained or will obtain a DPD Verification Statement. A DPD program provides the required dietetics coursework leading to a bachelor's degree and is required to provide the eligibility to and foundation for the advanced dietetics study of our UF MS-DI program. For more information, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) and the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

Updates to Eligibility to Take Registration Exam

Students/interns are required to earn a Master's degree, along with an accredited 1,000 hour dietetic internship, in order to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist. The UF MS-DI program allows students to satisfy both of these requirements. For more information, see CDR's RD Examination Eligibility Requirements. 

Accreditation

The UF MS-DI program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 120 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606, 1-800-977-1600, www.eatrightpro.org/acend.

Nondiscrimination Statement

The University of Florida is committed to nondiscrimination with respect to race, creed, religion, age, disability, color, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations, or veteran status.

Immunization Requirements

The University of Florida, and the UF MS-DI Program, are dedicated to maintaining the health and wellness of our campus and affiliate sites. Therefore, all new UF students are required to show documentation of specific vaccinations or proof of immunity prior to attending UF (as set forth in Florida statutes 1006.69, Florida Board of Governors Regulations Chapter 6, as well as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (CDC)). Immunizations must be kept up-to-date throughout the program. Immunizations are required to attend practicum and internship sites.

International Students

Please contact your international student advisor in the UF International Center prior to engaging in any field experiences, training activities, employment, volunteering, etc. Field experiences/training activities may include and are not limited to: alternate work/study, internships, externships, shadowing, cooperative education, practicums, clerkships, clinicals, rotations, etc., whether required or optional, paid or unpaid/volunteer, part-time or full-time, on-campus or off-campus, on-site or remote.

• If you hold an F-1 visa, you may be required to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) in order to engage in any field experiences, training activities, employment, etc. Click on CPT to read the detailed information. If eligible, failure to apply for and obtain CPT authorization from your F-1 International Student Advisor to engage in the field experience, training activity, or employment prior to starting the activity may result in violation of your F-1 visa status. Should you have any questions, you may attend your F-1 International Student Advisor's Virtual Office Hours to discuss eligibility and your questions. Having your offer or placement letter during the virtual office hours will greatly help in your F-1 Advisor's ability to assist you.
• F-2 visa holders may not engage in any field experiences, training activities, or employment.
• If you hold a J-1 or J-2 visa, please contact your J Advisor regarding obtaining authorization to engage in any field experiences, training activities, or employment.
• If you hold any other immigration status, please contact an immigration attorney to determine eligibility to engage in any field experiences, training activities, employment, etc.

Fall 2024 Open House:

Our virtual, live open house will take place on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 5:00pm EST. To be added to our RSVP list and receive the Zoom meeting link, please contact Kohrine Counts Hazim, the UF Dietetics Program Coordinator.

For more information or to schedule a tour or individual meeting with the UF MS-DI Director or Program Coordinator, contact Kohrine Counts Hazim. To schedule your own virtual tour or campus visit, see: admissions.ufl.edu/visit. 

Who should attend our open house?

Prospective students who are enrolled in an accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) or have completed a DPD program (with Verification Statement) and who are interested in both earning a Master of Science degree and completing an accredited Dietetic Internship program in order to become a registered dietitian nutritionist.

What will occur during the open house?

Students will meet with the program director and program coordinator to learn more detailed information about the program and have the opportunity to ask questions.

To whom do I RSVP?

RSVP to the UF Dietetics Program Coordinator, Kohrine Counts Hazim, MS, RDN, LDN at kcounts77@ufl.edu prior to the RSVP dates listed above. Instructions and the Zoom link will be emailed to you prior to the open house.

Traveling to Gainesville for a Tour?

Lodging is available at many locations in Gainesville. For convenience, consider the Reitz Union Hotel (located on the UF campus), AC Hotel Gainesville Downtown (at the edge of the UF campus), or the Hilton UF Conference Center (at the edge of the UF campus).

What is a registered dietitian/registered dietitian nutritionist (RD/RDN)?

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, RD/RDNs translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. They use their nutrition expertise to help individuals make positive lifestyle changes that are uniquely tailored to that individual's lifestyle and health needs. To do this, they take into account that individual's health background (amongst many other things, these include disease state(s), anthropometrics, dietary history, and biochemical data), willingness to make lifestyle changes, and ability to make changes (i.e. financial, social, and environmental factors).

Dietitians study a wide variety of subjects, including:

• nutrition science and food science
• food service systems management
• agriculture
• business, economics, and finance
• computer science
• culinary arts
• sociology and psychology
• biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology
• physiology and anatomy

Advocacy can take on many forms and can be necessary in any professional area. RDNs are equipped to be advocates for the dietetics profession, nutrition care, their patients and clients, programs and community resources, and on an even larger scale.

These organizations include: hospitals, schools, public health clinics, nursing or long-term care facilities, fitness centers, food management and industry, universities, government agencies, research facilities, and private practice.

How do I become an RD/RDN?

Certain educational and professional requirements must be met to earn the title and credential of RD/RDN. These include:

• Completion of a minimum of a Master's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited university or college, or foreign equivalent.
  • The University of Florida MS-DI program requires applicants to have completed coursework and graduated from a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), which includes earning/have earned a DPD Verification Statement.
    • Visit CDR for more information. If you have not/will not graduate from a DPD program (and earn a DPD Verification Statement), contact us to learn more about your options.
  • The UF MS-DI program meets the requirement of a Master's degree, while also satisfying the 1,000 hour dietetic internship requirement for supervised practice.
• Completion of 1,000 hours (minimum) of supervised practice through an ACEND accredited dietetic internship, Coordinated Program (CP), or an Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISPP).
• Passing the Registration Examination for Dietitians, a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Upon passage of the exam, registered dietitian candidates are entitled to a use the "RD", "RDN", and term "Registered Dietitian" or "Registered Dietitian Nutritionist" credential.
• Maintenance of continuing professional education requirements to maintain the RD/RDN credential after it is earned.
• Some states require state licensure for a dietitian to actively practice. For more information on licensure, see the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Upon obtaining licensure, candidates are entitled to use the credential "LD" or "LDN".
  • For over a century, states have exercised their right to protect public health and safety by regulating the practice of certain professions. Around 800 professional occupations are regulated in the U.S., including Registered Dietitians and other health professionals. Each state writes it own laws, and there is variation from state-to-state. Candidates should review the particular laws and regulations of any/each state in which they wish to practice.

For more information, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

University of Florida and MS-DI Immunization Requirements

The University of Florida, and the UF MS-DI Program, are dedicated to maintaining the health and wellness of our campus and affiliate sites. Therefore, all new UF students are required to show documentation of specific vaccinations or proof of immunity prior to attending UF (as set forth in Florida statutes 1006.69, Florida Board of Governors Regulations Chapter 6, as well as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (CDC)). Immunizations must be kept up-to-date throughout the program. Immunizations are required to attend practicum and internship sites. 

Furthermore, the UF MS-DI Program adheres and defers to the immunization and vaccination policies/procedures of our internship sites. These facilities may require that students have specific immunizations and vaccinations in order for the student to intern at their facility. Completion of supervised practice hours during the practicum and internship experiences are a requirement of the UF MS-DI program and ACEND, our accrediting agency, in order to receive the DI Verification Statement. Currently, our internship sites require the initial COVID-19 vaccine(s), but not the boosters. If you have questions about the specific immunization requirements of our internship sites, please contact us for more information.

MS-DI Program Handbook and Policy & Procedure Manual

Download the 2024 - 2025 UF MS-DI Student Handbook.

MS-DI Program Curriculum and Concentration

The UF MS-DI program is a 22 month program (five consecutive semesters) designed for students who desire to complete a Master of Science degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition (non-thesis) from a university recognized by the Association of American Universities.

The science-based curriculum provides students with the opportunity to develop knowledge about the science of nutrition, as well as the skills and competence in a variety of dietetic practice settings. Our multi-faceted approach to education promotes the development of critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Our program includes:

• Developing nutrition education and wellness programs for target groups.
• Formulating and conducting a nutrition-related group research project.
• Practicum internship rotations in outpatient clinical (i.e. diabetes, kidney disease) and community (i.e. WIC, elective).
• Core internship rotations in food systems management, general clinical, critical care, and clinical staffing experience.

Program Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will:

• Earn a Master of Science degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition.
• Complete an accredited dietetic internship program, including the required 1,000 supervised practice hours.
• Be eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians.
• Be eligible to apply for licensure in Florida or other states.
• Be prepared for an entry-level position in community, clinical, food service management, or other nutrition- or dietetics-related employment.

Program Start Date: August 

MS-DI Program Mission

The mission of the UF MS-DI Program is to provide a progressive and effective course of study that integrates graduate education, research, service, and supervised practice to prepare students as competent entry-level registered dietitians/registered dietitian nutritionists with advanced nutrition knowledge and who are prepared to meet the needs of the citizens of Florida and the nation.

How the Mission is Accomplished

This is accomplished through a partnership among the dietetics faculty, university faculty, site preceptors, current and former students, prospective employers, administrators, community groups, and other external constituencies.

MS-DI Program Goals and Objectives

Outcomes data are available to interns, prospective interns, and the public upon request. If you would like this information, please contact the UF Dietetics Program Coordinator, Kohrine Counts Hazim, MS, RDN, LDN.

Goal 1: Prepare competent, Master of Science degree trained dietetics practitioners for employment in entry-level positions.

• Objectives (based on five-year average):
  • At least 80% of interns complete program requirements within 2.25 years (150% of the program length).
  • Of graduates who seek employment, at least 80 percent are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
  • At least 80 percent 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 first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionist is at least 80%.
  • At least 80% of MS-DI program graduates over a three-year period will pass the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists on their first attempt.
  • The program's one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionist is at least 80%.
  • 100% of employers who return the employer survey will rate the graduates overall entry-level competence as "satisfactory" or greater.
  • 100% of students will be rated by their site preceptor as "competent for entry-level practice" by the end of each student's staffing experience rotation.
  • 100% of employers who return the employer survey will rate the graduates' nutrition and dietetics knowledge base as "satisfactory" or greater.
  • At least 75% of employers who return the employer survey will rate the graduates' overall performance as "satisfactory" or greater compared to other entry-level dietitians they have employed.
  • At least 80% of graduates who return the graduate survey will rate their perception of the adequacy of the education and training provided by the MS-DI program as "satisfactory" or greater.

Goal 2: Prepare graduates who use peer-reviewed research and evidence-based guidelines to address practice-related issues.

• Objectives (based on a five-year average):
  • At least 80% of graduates employed in the area of nutrition and dietetics and who complete the graduate survey, will agree that they use peer-reviewed research and evidence-based guidelines to address practice-related issues.
  • At least 80% of program graduates employed in the area of nutrition and dietetics and who complete the graduate survey, will agree that they use peer reviewed research and evidence-based guidelines to develop, review, and/or use educational programs, materials, or policies in their work setting.
  • At least 80% of employers who complete the employer survey will agree that program graduates demonstrate the ability to use peer-reviewed research to address practice-based issues.
  • At least 80% of employers who complete the employer survey will agree that program graduates demonstrate the ability to use peer-reviewed research to develop, review, and/or use education programs, materials, or policies.

Up to 8 students will be selected for admission into the UF MS-DI Program during each spring admissions cycle.

UF DPD Applicants Option (only for UF DPD student applicants)

The UF MS-DI program offers a DICAS-free option for UF DPD student applicants for Spring 2025. 

UF DPD students taking advantage of this option must submit their UF Graduate School application by January 15, 2025. A DICAS application is NOT required for this option. The UF admissions committees will then review these applications and conduct interviews for about 20% of applicants in early February. Those students offered admission to the UF MS-DI Program must notify the UF MS-DI Director of either acceptance or denial of their UF MS-DI offer for admission by 11:59 PM EST on March 15, 2025; applicants are absolutely welcome to respond sooner than this deadline.

          UF Graduate School application deadline: January 15th

Traditional Application (Applicants from other universities)

Because our program combines the Master's graduate degree with an accredited dietetic internship, the application process involves TWO separate applications and multiple steps. The two applications are the UF Graduate School application and the Dietetic Internship Central Application Service (DICAS) national application. Both must be completed and submitted by January 15th in order for the student to be considered for admission into the UF MS-DI Program. 

          UF Graduate School application deadline: January 15th

          DICAS application deadline: January 15th

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the MS-DI program, applicants must:

1. Have completed or be in the process of completing an accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD).

2. Have earned (or will earn) a DPD Verification Statement.

3. Meet minimum requirements for admission to the University of Florida Graduate School, which include:

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or comparable degree from an international institution
• Minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

4. Meet the requirements of the FSHN Department graduate programs. The FSHN Department graduate faculty and staff committee review your UF Graduate School application; this is not a separate application. Requirements of the FSHN Department are competitive, with attention given to GPA, applicant's personal statement, letters of recommendation, the strength of the applicant's course of study, performance in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and related courses, and GRE scores (if provided; not required). 

• If a student is not offered admission, but still wishes to attend UF as a Master's student in the FSHN Nutritional Sciences program, they should contact Herschel Johnson (FSHN Student Services Advisor) to have their application considered by the FSHN Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences application review committee. The FSHN Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences does NOT culminate in eligibility to sit for the RD exam.

5. If you are a prospective student from an external (non-UF) university, you must ALSO complete and submit a DICAS application by January 15th.

• You must submit your DICAS application by January 15th at 11:59 PM.
  • Your DPD Program Director must submit a completed copy of the Academy's Verification Statement or Declaration of Intent to Complete Degree as part of your DICAS application.
• A virtual interview may be requested after your DICAS application is submitted. At the discretion of the MS-DI Program Director, students may be invited to interview; applicants will be notified via email.
• Applicants will be notified about acceptance, denial, or waitlist on or before March 1st. Applicants have until March 15, 2025 to either accept or deny an offer of admission to the UF MS-DI program; applicants are absolutely welcome to respond sooner than this deadline. After the March 15th decision deadline, the program is not required to hold an admission slot open for the applicant and instead may offer the admission slot to a waitlisted applicant.

See below for more information on each step in the application and matching process. 

UF Graduate School Application and Deadlines

The deadline for application to the University of Florida's Graduate School and the Food Science and Human Nutrition department is January 15th (deadline for receipt of online application materials; post-mark deadline for materials sent via mail).

Graduate School Application

Complete the online UF Graduate School application. The non-refundable application fee of $30.00 can be paid online with a credit card. For more information about the UF Graduate School application, visit UF Admissions. 

The application requires:

Applicant's Personal Statement (500 word limit), which should focus on why you wish to attend graduate school and how it will help facilitate your future dietetic goals. You may also chose to include a clear description of:

• why you want to enter the dietetics profession,
• your short- and long-term goals,
• how you will provide benefit to this program and fellow students,
• experiences that have helped prepare you for a career in dietetics, and
• strengths and weaknesses or areas for improvement.
• note: you can use the same statement for the DICAS application, although the word limited is expanded to approximately 1,000 words in DICAS.

Three letters of recommendation. When completing the application, applicants must include the name and contact information for each reference. This will trigger an email message, sent to the reference, requesting completion of a reference form. The form will be completed online. Applicants will not be allowed to submit a reference letter on their own or on behalf of a reference.

Official transcripts

• Arrange to have official original transcripts from ALL colleges/universities attended sent to the UF Office of Admissions either electronically or mailed. If mailed, transcripts must be sealed in an envelope bearing the official seal of the university/college.

GRE scores

• GRE scores are NOT required for applicants. However, any submitted GRE scores will be considered as part of the applicant's application package. 
• If applicants wish to submit their GRE scores, they should contact the GRE Educational Testing Service to arrange to have their scores forwarded to the University of Florida Graduate School (university code: 5812).
  • It is recommended that the GRE be taken prior to the beginning of December in order to allow adequate time for forwarding results to the university.
  • There are no official desired GRE scores, as we look at applications holistically. Typically, however, competitive applicants score around a 300 total and at least a 3.5 on the writing portion. 

Once you have submitted your application to the UF Graduate School, send an email to the Dietetics Program Coordinator, Kohrine Counts Hazim, notifying her that you have applied to the UF MS-DI program. Include your name, UF ID number (assigned when you apply to the UF Graduate School), and date of when you submitted your application.

Note: All applicants are considered for any available future Teaching and Graduate Assistantships; there is no additional application at the time of initially applying to the program.

Late Applications

Although it is not recommended, the UF Graduate School does accept late applications (i.e. applications that are submitted after the January 15th deadline). 

• Due to the review process and internal processing, prospective students who submit late applications may not receive timely notification of acceptance/denial into the University of Florida Graduate School and, depending when the application is submitted, may not be considered for the first round application cycle.

The Academy's DICAS Application Materials

Our program uses the online centralized internship application (DICAS).

• The online application must be completed and submitted by the 11:59PM CENTRAL TIME on JANUARY 15TH (Note: The UF MS-DI DICAS portal will become available on September 1st).
  • For more information, email DICASinfo@DICAS.org.
• The fee to use DICAS is $50 for the first application submitted and $25 for each additional application/designation.
• For more information, visit DICAS General Instructions.

Materials Needed to Apply Using DICAS:

• Personal statement. Include the same information outlined above under the section titled "Graduate School Application." Except that you should focus on why you wish to complete a dietetic internship and how the experience will help facilitate your future dietetic goals.
  • Note: DICAS allows up to 1,000 words for the personal statement, so you may expand on the personal statement you used for your application to graduate school, if you wish.
• Official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended. Send to: DICAS - Transcript Dept., P.O. Box 9118, Watertown, MA 02472.
• Reference contact information. The name and contact information (email address) for each reference must be provided. This will trigger an email message, sent to the reference, requesting completion of a reference form. The form will be completed online. Students submitting more than one application will need to ensure three references are provided for each application.

Notification Day 

DICAS applicants will be notified about an offer of admission, denial, or waitlist by 11:59 PM EST on March 1, 2025. 

Applicants offered admission to the University of Florida's combined MS-DI program must notify the UF MS-DI Program Director about their acceptance or denial of the admission offer by 11:59 PM EST on March 15, 2025. After that time, our program is under no obligation to hold the opening for the applicant. If admission slots are denied by potential applicants, the UF MS-DI Program will offer admission to applicants on the waitlist. When contacted with an offer, waitlisted applicants will be notified about their deadline to accept or deny the offer of admission.

The Program Director, Dr. Jeanette Andrade, may be reached at jandrade1@ufl.edu. As part of their application, it is the responsibility of prospective students to provide a valid phone number and email address to which an offer of admission can be provided.

Waitlist Instructions

During the admission process, certain applicants are offered admission through a "first round" admission period. If an applicant is not offered admission into the Program during the first round, they may be waitlisted in the DICAS application system. This is not an outright denial. Instead, this means the applicant is still being considered for an admission slot in the UF MS-DI Program, however other applicants have been offered admission first.

Applicants have the right to withdraw their application from consideration on the waitlist, if they no longer wish to be considered. Waitlist applicants may receive an offer of admission before March 1st or after March 15th, depending on the timeline of first-round applicant decisions. If you are waitlisted and have questions, please contact Kohrine Hazim, UF Dietetics Program Coordinator.

(a) Annual graduate tuition (projected) is based on the 2024 - 2025 Graduate Cost of Attendance published by the UF Office for Student Financial Affairs. This charge does not include the materials and supply fee (if applicable) and any late registration or late payment fees. The application fee for applying to the UF Graduate School is $30. There is no additional application fee for the FSHN MS-DI program beyond the DICAS application fee.

(b) Based on, or an estimation is accessible at, the 2024 - 2025 Graduate Cost of Attendance. 

(c) The listed cost is the annual price of the 2024 - 2025 plan offered to UF students through United Healthcare Student Resources. This plan is designed for domestic students, unsupported graduate students, post doc students, and international students. Students do not need to purchase a policy from United Healthcare; however, they must provide proof of health insurance for the duration of their program of study. For more information, refer to United Health Care Student Resources. For information on UF Plan Rates and Dates, visit the UF Health Compliance Office.

(d) Required annual professional memberships include student membership with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics ($58) and student membership in one other dietetics/nutrition professional organization (varies; average estimate of $20).

(e) Some supervised practice rotations may require students to undergo drug testing, a medical examination, additional immunizations, training courses, and/or an additional background check. The cost of these varies and must be covered by the student.

Visit the Office for Student Financial Affairs for more information about annual costs, as well as financial aid. Please note that all listed costs are annual estimates. Individual expenses may be greater or less than projected.

For more information on educational expenses and financial aid, visit the Office for Student Financial Affairs.

Check out our Student Spotlights page to see what kinds of scholarships and awards our recent students have received!

Financial Aid Options

• Scholarships are available through UF and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics on a competitive basis.
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics - offers awards, scholarships, and grants.
  • Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics - offers awards and scholarships.
  • The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences - offers awards and scholarships.
  • UF Graduate School - provides financial aid information.
  • UF Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships can be a helpful resource.
  • Please note: additional scholarships may also be available through other sources.
• UF Grants and Fellowships - funding opportunities.
• Work study opportunities are available to graduate students on a first come, first served basis. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be completed and processed in advance in order to be considered for the work study program.
  • The FAFSA can be submitted as early as January 1st of each year, but no later than March 15th. Positions are limited, competitive, and available on a first come, first served basis.
  • More information about Federal Financial Aid Programs, FAFSA Application Status, Duplicate Student Aid Reports (SAR) and Requests to Change Institutions may be obtained online or by calling 1-800-433-3243 or 1-800-730-8913 (TDD).
• Tuition waivers are available for eligible graduate students who hold assistantships or certain fellowships. Teaching assistantships and fellowship opportunities are limited and competitive. These waivers cover most tuition charges.
  • All applicants to the UF MS-DI program are considered for Teaching Assistantships and Graduate Assistantships; no additional application materials are required at the time of initial application for admission.
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are non-need based and are available through private banks.
  • Loans are typically available in amounts up to the cost of attendance (determined by Student Financial Affairs) minus other aid.
  • Interest accrues while attending school and must be paid at graduation or can be accrued as principal.
  • The amount that can be borrowed for both Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans is $20,500 per year, up to $138,500 per lifetime (this includes undergraduate loans), of which $65,500 can be subsidized.
  • Federal Direct PLUS loans are available up to the cost of attendance minus other aid, with no aggregate loan limits. A separate PLUS loan application must be completed to receive these loans.
  • Once you enter school as a graduate student your undergraduate loans can be deferred, if you request that the conditions under which they were granted remain the same (i.e., if interest was accrued then, interest will be accrued now, etc.). The amount of undergraduate loans is added to the graduate loan to determine the lifetime cap on borrowing. For additional information regarding deferment of undergraduate loans, contact:
    • Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC)
      1-800-433-3243
      Federal Student Aid Contact Us
      https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/consolidation

Other Financial Aid Resources

The Smart Student Guide to Financial Aid

Financial Aid Bulletin Board - provides information about fellowships, grants, and scholarships offered by organizations outside of UF.

Program Calendar/Schedule

The MS-DI program adheres to the University of Florida Academic Calendar during the first four semesters of the program. During the full-time internship component of the program (semester 5, January - May), all university holidays are observed, however there is no spring break week.

Required Courses

**The required courses list is subject to change.

Course Descriptions

Visit the FSHN Graduate Courses Offered to view a detailed list of current courses offered and descriptions.

Advising

The MS-DI Program Director meets with admitted incoming students to explain the requirements of the graduate program, provide course advisement, and answer individual questions. The curriculum includes 33 graded credits of graduate courses and 9 credits of S/U graduate credits. Students may also contact FSHN Student Services Graduate Advising.

The UF Graduate Catalog, FSHN Department Graduate Student Handbook, and the MS-DI Program Handbook and Policy & Procedure Manual identify requirements for the MS non-thesis degree and graduation requirements. The FSHN Department Graduate Student Handbook and the MS-DI Program Handbook and Policy & Procedure Manual are distributed to students by the department and program, respectively.

Graduation and Program Completion Requirements

Students must meet university and departmental requirements for a graduate degree in order to be awarded a graduate degree.

The Graduate School will award the appropriate degree under the following conditions:

• All course requirements have been completed.
• The student has a GPA of B or higher in both the major and overall coursework.
• All grades of I, H, X, N*, NG, or J grades have been resolved.
• Courses in which the student earned a C- grade or lower are not accepted toward meeting course program requirements; this situation must be resolved prior to graduation.
• All required examinations must have been satisfactorily completed and forms filed by the deadline date.
• The MS thesis (if applicable) must be approved by the Supervisory Committee and accepted by the Graduate School by the deadline date.
• All requirements for the degree must be met while the candidate is a registered graduate student.
• Recommendations for awarding a degree include meeting all academic and professional qualifications as judged by the faculty of the appropriate academic unit.

In addition to meeting the university and departmental requirements for the graduate degree, MS-DI students must:

• Have an overall graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher prior to entering the full-time internship.
• Earn a grade of greater than or equal to B (not B-) in DIE6905 (Problems in Dietetics), HUN 6940 (Community Nutrition Practicum), DIE6241 (Advanced MNT 1) and DIE6242 (Advanced MNT 2) prior to entering the full-time internship.
• Complete the required number of supervised practice hours.
• Demonstrate satisfactory performance and competency in each of their rotations, as defined by benchmarks.
• Pass the mock RDN exam administered by the UF MS-DI program, which serves as the final exam of the program.
• Complete an exit interview and evaluation fo the internship.
• Return building keys and any borrowed materials.

The maximum amount of time allowed for completion of all MS-DI program requirements is 2.25 years.

Each student is responsible for contacting the Academic Programs Office (2014 MCC) to verify that all graduation requirements have been met. Students are responsible for filing all paperwork related to graduation with the appropriate administrative offices by the scheduled dates (refer to the UF Graduate School calendar).

The UF MS-DI program follows the University Academic Calendar, except during the full-time internship (and practicum rotations, at Program Director's discretion).

Sites and Preceptors

Students are not required to provide or solicit internship sites or preceptors at any point in the program. Interns have the opportunity to identify their interest in certain internship locations and patient/client populations at certain times throughout the program. However, final student rotations will be decided by the Program Director in accordance with program policies.

Main Rotations

Summer Practicum

Student interns participate in a variety of dietetic practice areas, including community-based facilities like WIC and certain elective rotation facilities and outpatient clinical facilities specializing in disease states such as renal and diabetes. Activities include: nutrition screening and assessment, intervention management, menu planning and nutrition analysis, counseling, nutrition education and training, administration and business management, and documentation of care. Students will work within an interdisciplinary team to provide nutrition care.

Food Systems Management Rotation

Current internship sites: UF Health, Veterans Administration Medical Center, North Florida Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health, AdventHealth Ocala, BayFront Health (St. Petersburg)

Student interns participate in all aspects of food service management in various hospital-based food service areas including patient food service, retail operations, and catering. Interns work directly with food service workers, managers, and the food service director. Activities include: menu planning and recipe development, purchasing and storage of food and supplies, hot and cold food production, meal delivery systems, safety, sanitation, and HACCP, human resources management, public relations and marketing, fiscal management, and evaluation of products/services.

Clinical Rotation

Current internship sites: UF Health, Veterans Administration Medical Center, North Florida Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health, AdventHealth Ocala, BayFront Health

Student interns provide all aspects of the nutrition care process for adult medical/surgical inpatients with a variety of medical conditions. As part of their learning experiences, students provide nutrition screening, nutrition assessment, care plan development, patient monitoring and follow-up, nutrition education, discharge planning, and documentation of care. Students recommend and evaluate appropriate oral, enteral (EN), and parenteral (TPN/PN) prescriptions. Patient care plans are discussed with the interdisciplinary care team and interns observe care provided by members of other health care disciplines. 

Critical Care Rotation

Current internship sites: UF Health, Veterans Administration Medical Center, North Florida Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health, AdventHealth Ocala, BayFront Health

Student interns use the nutrition care process to provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to high acuity patients requiring critical care management. Critical care patients often require the use of medical technology such as ventilator support, CVVH (continuous veno-venous hemodialysis), sedation therapy, and complex enteral/parenteral nutrition support. Interns interact with and observe the ICU/CCU team as they provide patient care. 

Staffing Experience Rotation

Current internship sites: UF Health, Veterans Administration Medical Center, North Florida Regional Medical Center, Orlando Health, AdventHealth Ocala, BayFront Health

Similar to the General Clinical rotation, student interns provide all aspects of the nutrition care process for adult medical/surgical inpatients with a variety of medical conditions. This time, however, the student interns act more as soon-to-be entry level dietitian providers, although supervision is still provided by their preceptor. As part of their learning experiences, students provide nutrition screening, nutrition assessment, care plan development, patient monitoring and follow-up, nutrition education, discharge planning, and documentation of care. Students recommend and evaluate appropriate oral, enteral (EN), and parenteral (TPN/PN) prescriptions. Patient care plans are discussed with the interdisciplinary care team and interns observe care provided by members of other health care disciplines. Students are also responsible for planning and presenting a patient-focused, research-based case study to nutrition staff.

Please note:

Limited Internship Positions

The number of intern positions at internship facilities varies each year. If there are not enough internship facility positions within the student's desired location, students will randomly be selected to attend an internship site at another location. Timely, advanced notice will be provided to the student(s).

Immunization Requirements

The University of Florida, and the UF MS-DI Program, are dedicated to maintaining the health and wellness of our campus and affiliate sites. Therefore, all new UF students are required to show documentation of specific vaccinations or proof of immunity prior to attending UF (as set forth in Florida statutes 1006.69, Florida Board of Governors Regulations Chapter 6, as well as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (CDC)). Immunizations must be kept up-to-date throughout the program. Immunizations are required to attend practicum and internship sites. 

Furthermore, the UF MS-DI Program adheres and defers to the immunization and vaccination policies and procedures of our internship sites. These facilities may require that students have specific immunizations and vaccinations in order for the student to intern at their facility. Currently, our internship sites require the initial COVID-19 vaccine(s), but not the boosters. Completion of supervised practice hours during the practicum and internship experiences are a requirement of the UF MS-DI program and ACEND, our accrediting agency, in order to receive the DI Verification Statement. If you have questions about the requirements of our internship sites, please contact us for more information.

International Students

Please contact your international student advisor in the UFIC* prior to engaging in any field experiences, training activities, employment, volunteering, etc. Field experiences/training activities may include and are not limited to: alternate work/study, internships, externships, shadowing, cooperative education, practicums, clerkships, clinicals, rotations, etc., whether required or optional, paid or unpaid/volunteer, part-time or full-time, on-campus or off-campus, on-site or remote.

• If you hold an F-1 visa, you may be required to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) in order to engage in any field experiences, training activities, employment, etc. Clink on CPT to read the detailed information. If eligible, failure to apply for and obtain CPT authorization from your F-1 International Student Advisor to engage in the field experience, training activity, or employment prior to starting the activity may result in violation of your F-1 visa status. Should you have any questions, you may attend your F-1 International Student Advisor's Virtual Office Hours to discuss eligibility and your questions. Having your offer or placement letter during the virtual office hours will greatly help in your F-1 Advisor's ability to assist you.
• F-2 visa holders may not engage in any field experiences, training activities, or employment.
• If you hold a J-1 or J-2 visa, please contact your J Advisor regarding obtaining authorization to engage in any field experiences, training activities, or employment.
• If you hold any other immigration status, please contact an immigration attorney to determine eligibility to engage in any field experiences, training activities, employment, etc.

Program Faculty and Staff

View our program's faculty and staff at our FSHN Faculty and Staff Directory.

Class of 2024 - 2026

Left to right: Dr. Andrade (MS-DI Director), Courtney Sroka, Emily Wisniewski, Jacqueline Rice, Eleazar Torres, Emma Shutters, Mara Baker, Priscilla Fernandez, Precious Obiagwu

Class of 2023 - 2025

Left to right: Dr. Andrade (MS-DI Director), Maria Beyer, Kaylyn Koons (back), Li-Ying Kuo, Emily McNulty (back), Sophie Giangrosso, Maddy Gerstenfeld (back), Ana Caggiano, Presley Pettit (back) 

Class of 2022 - 2024

Left to right: Julia Skinner, Fidela Gjondrekaj, Paula Domingues, Aliyah McLean, Rebecca Zambrano, Julie Peterson

Class of 2021 - 2023

Front row (left to right): EmmaLea Reed, Beril Bayik, Ashley D'Esposito
Back row (left to right): Jeena Endter, Katherine Dixon, Lily Tucciarone

Class of 2020 - 2022

Left to right: Kaitlyn Grange, Amber Fritsche, Rebecca Preece, Kaylan Hebert, Anastasia Narizhnaya, Kelsi Garcia, Jessica Campestrini, Diannette Osorio

Class of 2019 - 2021

Front row (left to right): Charissa Lim, Farah Tadros, and Susannah Folsom
Back row (left to right): Teresa Benoit, Stephanie Annarumma, Marty Tanner, Timothy Arbeau, and Alexa Hosey

Class of 2018 - 2020

Left to right: Elena Smith, Celia Andreo, Elena Torna, Hannah Cooper, Sarah Curl, Dr. Jeanette Andrade (MS-DI Director), Meagan Lamothe, Jessica Goldberg, Jamie Zeldman

Class of 2017 - 2019

Left to right: Michelle Yavelow, Abigail Cartledge, Alexa Barad, Christina Bracey, Nicole Misner, Kelsey Gemmill

Class of 2016 - 2018

Lef to right: Claire Marie Fassett, Samantha Buddemeyer, Pooja Tolani, Rachel Savelle, Kelly Johnson, Wendy Gans

Class of 2015 - 2017

Left to right: Sheila Rahimpour, Alexa Bledsoe, Kohrine Counts, Sara Beasley, Jenna Seckar, Madison Keesling

Class of 2014 - 2016

Left to right back : Joey Olivera, Carley Rusch, Carley Young; Left to right front: Nicole Agro, Kaley Mialki, Asa Eliasson

Class of 2013 - 2015

Left to right: Michelle Brown, Inbar Schapsis, Alexandra Dati, Kaitlin Clark, Lauren Caruso, Samantha Ward

Class of 2012 - 2014

Left to right: Eshani Persaud, Kate Bennet, Jenna Norris, Tiffany Stodtko, Morgan Denhard, Ashley Hamm

Class of 2011 - 2013

Left to right: Sarah Glenny, Erica Bub, Jonathan Holzinger, Stephanie Meyer, Jeanine Beatty

Class of 2010 - 2012

Left to right: Ashley Kendall, Lauren Headrick, Cassie Rowe, Michelle Zitt

Class of 2009 - 2011

Left to right back: Julie Martinez, Jamie Stolarz, Rebecca Clinton; Left to right front: Anghela Paredes, Lisa Chan, Leila Kalley

Class of 2008 - 2010

Left to right: Lindsey Pipkin, Colleen Davis, Lakshmi Mahan, Lydia Snyder, Jennifer Marquez

Class of 2007 - 2009

Left to right: Doretta Ho, Sarin McKenna, Anita Conley, Kathleen O'Connor, Valerie Weyenberg, Stephanie Cupples

Follow us on Instagram (@uf_ifas_fshn_dietetics) to stay up-to-date with student activities and awards! Also, check out the FSHN Blog to view feature stories covering dietetic students, alumni, and faculty.

Congratulations to our Students Receiving Scholarships and Awards in 2024

Li-Ying Kuo (Class of 2025) placed second for her poster presentation at the 2024 UF IFAS Future of Food Forum.

Emily McNulty (Class of 2025) was awarded the William and Agnus Brown Scholarship by the FSHN Department in spring of 2023. This award recognizes students with outstanding research and academic achievements and provides $2000 to awardees.

Congratulations to our Students Receiving Scholarships and Awards in 2023

Katherine Dixon (Class of 2023) and Aliyah McLean (Class of 2024) were both awarded the William and Agnus Brown Scholarship by the FSHN Department in spring of 2023. This award recognizes students with outstanding research and academic achievements and provides $2000 to awardees.

Lily Tucciarone (Class of 2023) was recognized as the 2023 Outstanding Dietetics Student Award by the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Student Poster Presentation at SNEB in July 2023

Rebecca Zambrano, a student from the MS-DI Class of 2024, attended the Society of Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) conference in Washington, DC. In addition to attending the fascinating conference sessions, she also presented a poster on her research titled "Evaluate Grocery Store Access Influence on Food and Beverage Shopping Habits of Meal Kit Intervention Participants." Check out her research abstract at Science Direct.

Congratulations to our Students Receiving Scholarships and Awards in 2020 and 2021

Alexa Hosey (Class of 2021) was awarded the 2020 Collegiate Dietetic Intern Award and the Gail Kauwell Scholarship from the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND). Both awards recognize outstanding student contributions. The Gail Kauwell Scholarship is only awarded to one student each year and awards the student with $1,000.

Farah Tadros (Class of 2021) was awarded the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) Foundation General Scholarship, which provides $1,000 to pursue academic related endeavors. She was also awarded the Williams & Anges Brown Scholarship, which supports food science and human nutrition research in the FSHN Department, with $2,000.

Congratulations to our Students Receiving Scholarships and Awards in 2020 and 2021

Alexa Hosey (Class of 2021) was awarded the 2020 Collegiate Dietetic Intern Award and the Gail Kauwell Scholarship from the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND). Both awards recognize outstanding student contributions. The Gail Kauwell Scholarship is only awarded to one student each year and awards the student with $1,000.

Teresa Benoit (Class of 2021) was awarded the Susan Brown Scholarship from the Gainesville Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in spring 2020. This scholarship recognizes students for their volunteer work or community service experience. 

Kaitlyn Grange (Class of 2022) received the AND Foundation's Colonel Katharine E. Manchester Scholarship in fall 2020.

The UF MS-DI program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). ACEND accredits programs that prepare students for careers as registered dietitian nutritionists. The most recent site visit for determination of program accreditation status occurred in spring 2018.

For more information about ACEND, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

ACEND can be contacted by:

• Email: ACEND@eatright.org
• Mail: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
  Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
  120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
  Chicago, IL 60606-6995
• Phone: 312-899-4878

Gainesville, it's a Great Place to Live

It's home to the University of Florida, with an enrollment of about 51,000, and Santa Fe College, with an enrollment of more than 16,000. Gainesville is little more than an hour drive to either coast and averages 7.75 hours of sunshine per day. The average high temperature in January is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average high in July is 91 degrees Fahrenheit. Gainesville is one of the state's main centers for medical research and treatment, housing UF Health (Shands), the Malcolm Randall Veterans Administration Medical Center, and HCA North Florida Regional Medical Center.

A Brief History

Spanish explorers visited what is now Alachua County as early as 1529. Gainesville was founded in 1853 when the Alachua County Commission decided to move the county seat to a new location along the route of the Florida Railroad. The new city was named after General Edmund Gaines, a commander in the Second Seminole War. The first state college (East Florida Seminary), initially founded in Ocala, merged with the Florida Agricultural College of Lake City in 1905 to form the University of Florida. The newly formed university moved to Gainesville in 1906.

Natural Attractions and Entertainment

Many of the pleasures of living in the Gainesville area are water-related. However, there are also many museums, theaters, parks, and attractions.

Beaches, Springs, and Rivers

The beaches of both coasts are easily accessible, however it is not necessary to leave Alachua County to enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. UF's Lake Wauberg is free for students to visit; students may rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and participate in ropes courses and rock climbing walls.

Many springs are within easy reach of Gainesville. These springs and the lakes and rivers they feed have exceptionally clear, cool water, and (usually) a white sandy floor. Visit Florida's Springs to locate nearby springs. Many offer opportunities for camping, swimming, canoeing, and diving. It is not uncommon for divers to find fossils or Indian artifacts. Tubing can also be enjoyed on nearby rivers, such as the Ichetucknee and Rainbow Rivers.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and Parks

The Morningside Nature Center, a 280 acre wildlife sanctuary, has a permanent staff of naturalists and a varied program of activities, from natural history, farm, and folk life courses to nature walks and craft workshops.

The 57 acre Bivens Arm Nature Park is also within the city limits. Paynes Prairie State Preserve, Devil's Millhopper State Geological Site, and San Felasco Hammock State Preserve offer opportunities to get close to nature.

Theaters and Music

The headquarters of the Gainesville Department of Cultural Affairs is the Thomas Center, a building of interest to architects and historians. Theaters include: the historic Baird Center, the Constans Theater Box Office on the UF campus, the Gainesville Community Playhouse at the Vam York Theater, the Hippodrome (one of Florida's three state theaters), and the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

The City of Gainesville sponsors guest artists, music, and performing arts by local performers and companies at the Thomas Center and the Bo Diddley Plaza. The university's Department of Music offers opportunities for local musicians to participate in its performing groups, which range from the symphony orchestra to jazz combos. Student Government and other organizations bring touring professional performers and productions to Gainesville.

Museums and Art

The Samuel P. Harm Museum is the major regional art center. Art galleries in Gainesville also include the Thomas Center, the University Gallery, and several other galleries and exhibition areas on campus. Santa Fe Community College has a Gallery of Art and sponsors the Spring Arts Festival in downtown Gainesville. The Gainesville Fine Arts Association sponsors shows at the Thomas Center and within area shopping centers. There are several commercial galleries and the Artisan's Guild, a nonprofit cooperative for local artists and crafts persons. 

The Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History offers museum displays and live butterflies in a covered atrium. The Matheson Historical Center serves as the Alachua County Museum and Archives.

Nearby Attractions

Within a radius of 100 miles of Gainesville, there are many places of interest. A few include: Jacksonville (with its big-city amenities and beaches); St. Augustine (the oldest city in the United States, established by the Spaniards in 1565); the Kennedy Space Center on the Space Coast; Disney World, Universal Studios, EPCOT, and other amusement parks in Orlando; Cedar Key (a picturesque fishing village); and Cross Creek (the home of author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, preserved as a state historical site).

Highways, Airports, Railways, and Bus Services

The main highways to Gainesville are Interstate 75, US 441/301.

The Gainesville Regional Airport is served by four airlines - American Eagle Airlines, Delta Connection/ASA, US Airways Express/PSA, and Silver Airways/United Airlines. There is an Amtrak rail depot close by in Waldo. Intercity bus service is provided by Greyhound. Within the city and on UF's campus, bus service is provided by the Regional Transit System (RTS).

For more information about Gainesville, visit www.cityofgainesville.org.

University of Florida Resources

Student Health Care Center

UF Counseling & Wellness Center

UF Health Compliance Office

CALS Career Resources

Housing Office

Spouse and Family Resources (including Child Care Services)

Parking and Transportation Services

Financial Aid

Offices & Services

International Center

Student Life

UF/IFAS Extension EDIS

External Resources

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

North Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

American Society for Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition (ASPEN)

American Society for Nutrition

Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior

American Diabetes Association

American Heart Association

American Cancer Society

American Public Health Association

MEDLINE

PubMed

Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Journal of Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition

Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior

Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition

Fruits & Veggies - More Matters

Food and Nutrition Information Center

Nutrition.gov

International Food Information Council

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Interested in More Information on the UF MS-DI Program?

Contact Us:

MS-DI Director: Dr. Jeanette Andrade, PhD, RDN/LDN, FAND

Program Coordinator: Kohrine Counts Hazim, MS, RDN, LDN

Want to show your support for the UF Dietetics Programs? Two options are available to make a gift -

Mail your gift check to:

FSHN Department - Dietetics

P.O. Box 110370

Gainesville, FL 32611-0370

Please make your check payable to "University of Florida - SHARE." In the memo, indicate the fund of "FSHN Dietetics - GSSOSAD."

Donate Online:

To donate online, visit www.uff.ufl.edu/give/dietetics. In the comments section, please indicate the fund of "FSHN Dietetics - GSSOSAD."

Thank you for your support! We will use your donation to improve the program and support our students.

If you have a particular project you would like us to use your donation for, indicate the project in the memo section (if donating via check) or comments section (if donating online).