Our Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) satisfies the academic requirements of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The DPD area of study focuses on preparing you for an ACEND accredited dietetic internship necessary to become a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). Learn more about the program in the Didactic Program in Dietetics handbook (PDF).
Your choice of study in the area of dietetics means that you are preparing for a professional career in meeting the food and nutrition needs of individuals and families. Such a career will require top level knowledge of foods and nutrition, proficiency in management of resources, and skill in working with others. You will have the opportunity to fully utilize your abilities and the satisfaction of knowing that in doing your work well you are helping people.
Once you complete all program requirements and obtain a verification statement, you will be able to pursue entry into an ACEND accredited dietetic internship program and take the Commission on Dietetic Registration's dietetic registration exam. Learn more about the Illinois registration and qualifications to apply for licensure.
The mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is to prepare students for supervised practice leading to eligibility for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become a registered dietitian nutritionist. Through educational excellence, we prepare students to serve clients and promote health and well-being in diverse settings.
Our mission is detailed in our goals and objectives.
To enhance graduates' knowledge and skills through educational excellence leading to successful completion of a supervised practice experience.
To prepare graduates to serve clients and promote health and well-being in diverse settings.
Program outcomes data are available on request.
In addition to courses required within the School of Health Studies and outside the school, students pursuing the DPD area of study and seeking verification of DPD completion must:
For a complete list of courses required to satisfy the DPD area of study, refer to the undergraduate catalog.
The Didactic Program in Dietetics at Northern Illinois University is currently granted accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education of Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
120 South Riverside Plaza
Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
800-877-1600
Learn more about the application, other program requirements, costs and financial aid in the DPD Handbook (PDF).