Admissions

Your next step toward becoming an RDN starts here.

The MS in Integrated Nutrition brings graduate education and Supervised Practice Experience together across three consecutive semesters — summer, fall, and spring — so you complete the degree and supervised practice requirements for RDN eligibility in one year.

We welcome applicants from the University of Memphis and from ACEND-accredited Didactic Programs in Dietetics across the country.

Is the MS in Integrated Nutrition Right for You?

There is no single profile of an ideal Integrated Nutrition student. Some arrive knowing exactly where they hope to practice. Others want to explore different areas of nutrition before choosing a direction. Both work here.

We are looking for students who are curious, motivated, and excited about joining the profession. Because coursework and supervised practice happen at the same time, successful students are also prepared to manage their time, take initiative, accept feedback, and make the most of a fast-paced year.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the MS in Integrated Nutrition must have:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Completion of an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics, or anticipated completion before beginning the program
• A DPD Verification Statement or Declaration of Intent
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from your DPD director
• A personal statement of no more than two pages
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended

Still Finishing Your Bachelor's Degree?

You do not need to wait until graduation to apply. Students completing their undergraduate degree and DPD requirements may apply with a Declaration of Intent from their DPD director. A final DPD Verification Statement is required before beginning the program.

Explore our Accelerated Bachelors to Masters program

What Makes a Competitive Applicant?

The minimum GPA for consideration is 3.0, but we strongly encourage applicants to have a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher. This program moves quickly, and a strong academic record helps demonstrate that you are ready for it.

Academic performance is only one part of your story. We also weigh your experiences, recommendations, professional goals, communication skills, leadership, and work and volunteer history.

Your Personal Statement

This is where we learn what brought you to nutrition and where you hope it takes you. Tell us about the areas that interest you, the experiences that shaped you, and what you want to explore in graduate school.

You do not need your entire career mapped out — exploring the profession is part of the Integrated Nutrition experience. Statements should be no more than two pages and should reflect your own writing.

How to Apply

Every applicant submits the same materials listed above. Where you submit them depends on where you completed your undergraduate education.

University of Memphis Students

Current U of M Dietetics students apply directly to the program.

1. Complete the program application. Submit the University of Memphis MS in Integrated Nutrition application.
2. Submit your application materials. Instructions for sending transcripts, recommendations, your personal statement, and your DPD documentation are provided with the application.

Students from Other Universities

We want you here, too. Applicants from ACEND-accredited DPD programs nationwide apply through DICAS, the Dietetics Inclusive Centralized Application System, where all required materials are uploaded in one place. Your undergraduate DPD director can help you navigate the process.

Students who bring different educational backgrounds into the cohort make the learning experience stronger for everyone.

Dietetics Application Process and Traffic Rules

Applicants are expected to follow all program requirements and deadlines, and should review the ACEND policies that apply to supervised practice programs.

International Applicants

Students who completed their undergraduate education outside the United States may need additional review to determine whether previous coursework meets ACEND and University of Memphis requirements. Because academic backgrounds vary, contact the Program Director early — we are happy to help you understand what documentation or additional coursework may be needed before you apply.

When Should I Apply?

A new cohort begins each summer. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning completed applications may be considered as they arrive rather than waiting for a single review date.

Credit for Prior Learning and Transfer Coursework

Graduate Transfer Coursework

Graduate coursework completed at another accredited institution may be considered for transfer. The Program Director determines acceptance and applicability based on the content, rigor, and relevance of the coursework, in accordance with University of Memphis Graduate School policies.

Per Graduate School policy, no more than 50% of the credit hours required for the degree may be transferred from an outside institution. Approval of transfer credit does not guarantee the coursework will substitute for a specific program requirement.

Prior Supervised Practice Experience

The program does not award credit toward required supervised practice for internships, employment, or other experiential learning completed outside the University of Memphis program. All required experiences and associated competencies must be completed here.

After You Are Accepted

Once you accept your place, we guide you through the remaining steps: final transcripts and your DPD Verification Statement, University of Memphis Graduate School requirements, and any documentation needed before your Supervised Practice Experience begins.

You will receive clear instructions from the Program Director so you know what is needed and when it is due. Then, in the summer, your Integrated Nutrition experience begins.

Have Questions Before You Apply?

Questions about prerequisites, your GPA, the NDTR exam, DPD requirements, the application process, or Supervised Practice Experiences are all welcome.