Faculty:

• Karen Harouse- Bell, M.S., R.D., CDCES, L.D.N., Program Director
• Doreen Tracy, M.S., R.D.

The nutrition and dietetics program at Seton Hill University offers a combined undergraduate and graduate program leading to the Bachelor of Science in nutrition science and Master of Science in nutrition and dietetics. 

The Bachelor of Science in nutrition science provides students with foundational knowledge in preparation of becoming a registered dietitian/ nutritionist. The skills and knowledge attained prepares students to continue graduate studies in Nutrition and Dietetics. 

The graduate portion of the integrated master’s in nutrition and dietetics integrates advanced-level graduate course work with supervised experiential learning areas near campus. Students will learn critical thinking and scientific skills needed for clinical practice, management and leadership. Our program inspires interprofessional collaboration and growth, education, and offers opportunities to achieve expanded roles in nutrition practice. 

This degree provides both didactic coursework and supervised experiential learning integrated in one program, preparing students to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RON). Beginning January 1, 2024, all Registered Dietitian/Nutritionists (RDNs) entering the field are required to have master’s level degree to enter the profession. 

The Integrated Nutrition Science B.S. / Nutrition and Dietetics M.S. in nutrition and dietetics program offers:

• a five-year pathway to both the B.S. and M.S. degrees
• foundational coursework in the fundamental sciences necessary for advanced study in nutrition and dietetics
• introductory coursework in food science and nutrition
• exposure to multiple facets of nutrition and dietetics, including food service, medical nutrition, and community nutrition
• individualized advising for transfer students at the baccalaureate level
• a blend of strong supervised experiential learning opportunities
• a clinical skills workshop
• various resource sessions and modules to support students in successfully demonstrating required skills and competencies in a variety of practice settings
• a minimum of 1200 hours of supervised experiential learning integrated into the program and arranged by the faculty experiences planned and arranged by the faculty individualized to meet the students’ goals
• an RD Exam Review Workshop and use of RD exam software

Accreditation

The Seton Hill University MS in Nutrition and Dietetics is a fully accredited program by The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Program graduates who have completed all the requirements of the MS degree will be eligible to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) credentialing exam to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Only ACEND-accredited programs can prepare individuals to become RDNs. The BS in Nutrition Science is not an accredited program; students must complete the graduate program to earn the accredited degree. 

Admission criteria for the Integrated BS/MS degree program 

Enrollment in the nutrition science program is limited to students who have been accepted into the BS/MS integrated master’s in nutrition and dietetics program. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their applications. It is preferred for incoming freshmen to have a minimum 1030 SAT or a minimum 20 ACT composite score, and a minimum high school cumulative grade point average of 3.2. 

Transfer students at the BS level with a minimum college cumulative grade point average of 3.0 and a minimum dietetics major grade point average of 3.0 would be eligible for admission into the major and a guaranteed seat in the program if seats are available. 

There is a maximum of thirteen seats in each class. 

Criteria for matriculation into the graduate program for the Integrated BS/MS degree program

Students who enroll in the integrated BS/MS program as undergraduates will matriculate directly into the MS in nutrition and dietetics, as long as they have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher overall and in the major.

Students in the joint program will earn the BS and achieve graduate student status upon completing the following:

• Student must meet all requirements for entry into the graduate program,
• Student must have completed the nutrition science capstone assessment,
• Student must have earned at least 120 credits posted on her/his Seton Hill transcripts (graduate coursework contributes to this credit total), and
• Students must have completed the Liberal Arts Curriculum requirements. 

The capstone assessment includes completion of an electronic portfolio consisting of specific assignments that demonstrate achievement of the nutrition and dietetics learning objectives and a reflection paper that addresses how the student integrated the University and program learning objectives with study in their major. 

Learning Objectives (BS): 

1. Synthesize scientific information and research to perform evidence-based practice.
2. Display beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors appropriate for the professional level of dietetics practice.
3. Create and deliver information, products, and services to diverse individuals and groups with integrity and respect.
4. Employ principles of management in the provision of food and nutrition services in a variety of settings.
5. Display entrepreneurial skills in preparation for future practice.
6. Apply foundational sciences to food and nutritional knowledge to meet the needs of individuals, groups and organizations. 

Learning Objectives (MS): 

1. Synthesize theories and concepts from the liberal arts, science and nutrition as a foundation for professional practice in a global population.
2. Execute nutrition care and dietetics practice reflecting standards of human dignity, ethical decision making, integrity, social justice and respect.
3. Evaluate research findings and adapt nutritional care and education for client-focused, evidence based practice.
4. Engage in the delivery of quality nutrition and dietetic care and services that promote health, considering health disparities in vulnerable populations.
5. Communicate effectively in social, public and professional settings with various populations.
6. Uphold leadership, business and management principles to guide practice and achieve operational goals.