DI Program Completion Requirements

As previously mentioned, each student must satisfactorily meet all ACEND core competencies set in a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised practice. A “satisfactory” completion of each core competencies means that the preceptor (or program director) overseeing the competency has given the student an evaluation score of a three (3) or four (4) on a four-point scale. If a student has trouble mastering a competency, they may need to spend more time in that rotation or participate in additional activities or experiences until an acceptable level of competency is achieved. A midpoint check-in is conducted to address any concerns and reduce the chance of a student completing a full rotation with little chance of success. Per ACEND regulations, students must complete the internship within 150% of the usual time allotted. The UMass Amherst DI program is typically 10 consecutive months, therefore, 150% of that time would be 15 consecutive months.

During the 1,000+ hour DI program, students are expected to meet all of the 2022 Core Competencies beginning on page 9 in the Curriculum and Learning Activities section within the ACEND Accreditation Standards for Nutrition and Dietetics Internship Programs manual. Competencies are based on learning experiences designed to simulate a wide range of activities practiced by entry-level dietitians. Students work with preceptors at each rotation site (or the program director) to ensure that all competencies are successfully met. Additional activity hours associated with the program that fall under the alternate supervised hours include various projects and presentations (e.g., abstract, PDSA project, nutrition presentations).

Upon successful completion of the DI program, graduates will receive an electronic version of their dietetic internship verification statement from the program director indicating they have satisfactorily completed their supervised practice and are eligible to take the CDR credentialling exam. Upon passing the RD exam, graduates will be registered dietitian and/or registered dietitian nutritionists (RD/RDN). More information about the RD exam can be found on the CDR website: https://www.cdrnet.org/RDN.

The 1,000 hours of supervised practice also fulfills the experience portion required to apply for state licensure in Massachusetts. Visit our website for more information on Massachusetts State Licensure requirements. Each state has its own variation on licensure requirements. Interested individuals should review their state's licensing statutes and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice hours and examinations required to become a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist. More information about specific state licensure requirements and certifications can be found at this link: State Licensure.