Program Overview

The program begins with a group orientation that covers the competencies and expectations students should anticipate throughout the program. This is a substantial amount of information, which may be overwhelming at first. You will have access to our Canvas LMS when you register for the DI practicum (698A in fall, or 698B in spring), which will contain all the information required for the program. All incoming dietetic students must enroll through University + as a non-degree student. Visit  https://www.umass.edu/registrar/non-degree-enrollment for instructions on how to enroll.

Generally, students complete their FSM and community nutrition rotations in one semester and their clinical in the other, and the shorter rotations are spread evenly throughout the program. Students attend the VA rotation orientation in pairs, but do their counseling work individually with an assigned preceptor. All other rotations are completed individually.

The program days for all rotations, with the exception of the VA and LTC, are Tuesday through Friday (4 days/week, ~32 hrs/week). Mondays are reserved for class days to attend seminars and workshops. There will not be class on every Monday, but plan on at least two each month. Seminars are virtual and students may choose to attend them together or separately. Workshops will be in person and held at the UMass Venture Way Collaborative Building, 100 Venture Way, Hadley, MA 01035. Fees to attend seminars, workshops, and/or conferences will be covered by the program.

The 32-hour week does not include travel time, homework/projects, or other outside preparation for the rotations. There will be a two-week break at the end of December through the New Year, and a two-week break in the summer for the spring cohort.