Mission

The mission of the Lamar University Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (DPD) is to prepare graduates to use program knowledge and skills for careers in nutrition, dietetics and other fields to address issues of critical concern in the local, national and international communities, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of human well-being.

Students gain an appreciation of lifelong learning, ethical standards and diversity. The curriculum is designed to provide core knowledge for the preparation of entry-level registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs).

After completion of the DPD required courses and after earning bachelor’s degree and a verification statement, program graduates are qualified to apply for supervised practice programs (dietetic internships) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Graduates who successfully complete supervised practice programs are qualified to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians, and upon passing the exam, to become credentialed as registered dietitian nutritionists, apply for licensure if applicable, and become active members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Goals and Objectives

Program Goal 1

To provide quality instruction and experiences for graduates to be successful in ACEND-accredited supervised practice programs.

1. Undergraduate: At least 80% of students complete program requirements within 6 years (150% of planned program length).
   Graduate: At least 80% of students complete program requirements within 18 months (150% of planned program length).
2. At least 50% of program graduates apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
3. Of program graduates who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 40% are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
4. The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionist is at least 80%.
5. 80% of graduates admitted to a supervised practice program will be rated by the program’s director at least “satisfactory” in overall preparedness for supervised practice.
6. 80% of graduates admitted to a supervised practice program will rate themselves at least "prepared" in knowledge and skills for supervised practice.

Program Goal 2

To provide instruction and experiences that motivate graduates to seek opportunities for lifelong learning and instill in graduates an appreciation for ethical standards and diversity.

Program Objectives for Goal 2

1. 30% of graduates not admitted to a supervised practice program will begin a post baccalaureate degree program in nutrition/dietetics or related field within one year after graduation.
2. 90% of graduates who respond to the survey will report a strong understanding and appreciation of ethical standards as a result of instruction and experiences in the DPD.
3. 90% of graduates who respond to the survey will report a strong appreciation of diversity as a result of instruction and experiences in the DPD.

 Note: Program outcomes data are available upon request.