Do I have to have a bachelors degree in nutrition?
No. You may apply to the MCN programs with a bachelors degree in any field along with completion of the admission prerequisite courses.
Why are there two degree track options?
The MCN-CP track is for those who need to meet the requirements for becoming a registered dietitian. The MCN-LHP track is for those who are already a Registered Dietitian who would like to obtain a masters degree and for other health professionals who are interested in obtaining advanced knowledge in nutrition to enhance their skills in their own field.
Do you offer a separate internship program?
No. The MCN Coordinated program combines the required course work with the clinical supervised practice hours needed to be Registered Dietitian eligible. Graduates of the MCN Coordinated Program are immediately eligible to take the national registration examination for dietitians. No additional internship is necessary.
Is the MCN program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE)?
The current bachelors program offered is accredited and has been accredited by CADE for over 20 years. Re-accreditation for the MCN Coordinated Program is expected in fall 2010.
How many students are accepted each year?
Sixteen (16) students are accepted to the MCN Coordinated Program track each year. The number of students accepted in the MCN health professions track may vary.
What is the average GPA of accepted students?
The average GPA for students accepted for the 2010-2011 academic year was 3.45. The GPA range was 3.08 to 3.9. The overall GPA is calculated based on all undergraduate course work, not just the admission requirements.
What is the recommended GRE score?
The recommended GRE score is 1000 or higher.
Are scholarships and financial aid available?
Yes. Students are eligible to apply for financial and scholarships. Almost all students receive some form of financial aid. A number of our students meet the qualifications for applying for scholarships awarded by professional organizations. For more information and links go to the Financial Aid section.
Is housing available to UT Southwestern School of Health Professions Students?
A gated student apartment complex was recently built and is reserved for students only. Apartments are conveniently located just north of campus and a short distance from Love Field. A courtesy officer is located 24/7 at the entry control center. Scheduled shuttle service is available to and from the campus. Follow this link for an application and to find out more: Campus Housing.
What factors are considered in selection of students?
Student selection is on a competitive basis and is based on personal interview, overall GPA, science GPA, prerequisite course completion, letter of application, and recommendations.
Will I be able to continue my job while enrolled as a student?
Students are strongly advised not to plan outside work while enrolled as a full-time student. Our curriculum is vigorous and time-demanding. Good time management skills and a lighter load during the junior year may allow some students to work up to ten hours a week. Students are strongly advised against any outside work during the senior year.
What is unique about the Coordinated Program in Dietetics at UT Southwestern?
Students have the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skill to pass the Registration Examination. No internship is required after graduation because the internship or supervised practice is a part of the program here. Also, this program is unique in that it is located on a medical center campus providing the environment for in-depth study of clinical dietetics and medical nutrition therapy.
Where can I complete my pre-requisite courses?
Pre-requisite courses can be completed at most community colleges or a four year university. If you are unsure of which courses at your college meet the pre-requisites, please contact the department, 214-648-1520 or: clindiet@utsouthwestern.edu
What type of jobs do your graduates get?
The majority of our graduates find employment in and around the Dallas area within six months of graduation. They work in clinical facilities such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. They may also be employed in community clinics with the WIC program or the COPC. Others have gone on to work for large pharmaceutical & nutritional product development companies as well as sports and wellness facilities.
What does a registered dietitian do?
The responsibilities of the dietitian will vary with their working environment. These are just a few activities that a dietitian may perform throughout a typical workday: assess nutritional status of clients/patients, plan nutritional care, provide nutritional counseling/education, consult with the healthcare team implementing care, manage human and material resources, develop operating budget, design menus to meet special needs, plan the procurement and production of foods, and apply quality assurance standards.
Do I qualify for Texas Residency tuition?
In most cases, to qualify for Texas Residency tuition rates, you must have lived in Texas for 12 months. Residency in part is also established by demonstrating the intent to stay in Texas by obtaining a Texas Driver’s License or registering to vote in Texas. You can contact the UT Southwestern office of Admissions (214-648-5617) for further information and to apply for residency.
Who do I talk to about my international student visa status?
International students must contact the office of International Affairs regarding any issues related to visa and tuition status. (214-648-2780)
