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 Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics for students who have already completed a baccalaureate degree. Those with a baccalaureate degree from a Didactic Program in Dietetics can enroll directly into the M.S. program. Other post-baccalaureate students will need to complete prerequisite course work described below prior to starting in the M.S. program. 

This graduate program 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. 

The M.S. 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 master’s in nutrition and dietetics program offers:

• 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 andcompetencies in a variety of practice settings
• a minimum of 1200 hours of supervised experiential learning integrated into the program and arranged bythe 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
• individualized advising for post-bac or transfer students

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. 

Admission criteria for the MS degree program 

Students entering with a baccalaureate degree from a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) are eligible to enroll directly into the two-year MS degree program. 

Students entering with a baccalaureate degree that is not from a Didactic Program in Dietetics will need to complete the prerequisite courses below prior to entering the MS program. This coursework could be completed at Seton Hill University through post-baccalaureate enrollment prior to starting the two-year M.S. program. The prerequisite courses are: 

• Medical Terminology
• Human Anatomy and Physiology I (with Lab) 4 credit units or equivalent
• Human Anatomy and Physiology I (with Lab) 4 credit units or equivalent
• General and Organic Chemistry (with Lab) 4 credits units or equivalent
• Biochemistry 3 credit units or equivalent
• Microbiology (with Lab) 4 credit units or equivalent
• Principles of Nutrition 3 credit units or equivalent
• Food Science (with Lab) 4 credit units or equivalent
• Medical Nutrition Therapy I (or equivalent course such as Lifecycle Nutrition) 3 credit units or equivalent
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
• Methods of Nutrition Education
• Medical Nutrition Therapy I and II
• Experimental Foods
• Other courses may need to be completed per discretion of the Program Director

There is a maximum of thirteen seats in each class at the MS level. Students enrolled in the Integrated B.S./M.S. Program have guaranteed seats; additional applicants will be considered for admission pending seat availability. 

Seton Hill University also offers a M.S. in Advanced Nutrition Practice, designed for registered dietitians seeking to complete a Master of Science degree. 

Learning Objectives (MS): 

1. Synthesize theories and concepts from the liberal arts, science and nutrition as a foundation for professionalpractice 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, consideringhealth 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.