Overview

The mission of the Post Baccalaureate Internship in Dietetics Certificate (PBIDC) is to prepare program graduates with the skills and knowledge to be comfortable and competent in entry-level positions in the field, while also preparing them for lifelong service and engagement in their communities and in the profession.

Interns in the PBIDC will have an opportunity to

1. apply nutrition and dietetic principles in settings such as healthcare, food service and community;
2. complete required knowledge requirements and competencies as established by The Accreditation Council for Education in Dietetics and Nutrition (ACEND);
3. participate in local and state professional activities and encourage advocacy;
4. engage with diverse populations and work settings; and
5. demonstrate knowledge and skills relevant for leadership potential and professional growth.

Upon successful completion of the PBIDC, graduates will be eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians. Upon passing the exam, the candidate would earn the credential Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and would be eligible for employment in entry-level positions requiring this credential. The total number of units required for the PBIDC is 20.

Admission to the Program

Applicants must meet the university requirements for admission, which include a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. To be admitted into the Post-Baccalaureate Dietetic Internship Certificate in Nutritional Science Program at Cal State, applicants must also meet or provide the following:

1. Apply to the University to be eligible for admission.
2. Have a DPD Verification Statement and a Master’s degree either completed or in progress from a regionally accredited college or university. The college or university must be located in the U.S. or its territories and accredited in good standing by a U.S. institutional accrediting body for higher education recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE).
3. Two letters of recommendation, with one from an academic source.
4. Letter of professional and future goals. Specific directions will be available in the supplemental application.
5. Resume with relevant volunteer and work experience.

Notice to Students Regarding Professional Licensure and Certification