nutrition & dietetics - mission & goals

Mission Statement: The mission of the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) at the University of Delaware is to provide a comprehensive and high-quality curriculum that prepares graduates to successfully enter a post-baccalaureate program, an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program, and/or a variety of employment opportunities related to nutrition and food.

Goal 1: Graduates will be prepared for acceptance into graduate school or a supervised practice program.

1. At least 60 percent of program graduates apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
2. Of program graduates who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 90 percent are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
3. Of Program graduates who apply to a graduate program, at least 80 percent are admitted within 12 months of graduation.  
4. At least 80 percent of students complete program requirements within 6 years (150% of planned program length)

Goal 2: Graduates will obtain the knowledge and skills required to be successful in an ACEND accredited supervised practice program.

1. At least 80% of supervised practice program directors who respond to a survey will rate our graduates’ preparation as “Exceeded expectations” or “Greatly exceeded expectations” when asked to select from greatly exceeded expectations, exceeded expectations, matched expectations, and did not meet expectations.
2. 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 nutritionists is at least 80%.

Goal 3: The program will foster experiential learning and leadership opportunities to enrich education and preparation for professional practice.

1. At least 90% of graduates will have completed 75 hours of nutrition or health related experience (volunteer or paid) outside of course work prior to graduation 
2. At least 40% of graduates will have served in leadership roles in student organizations, University programs and/or organizations, and/or professional organizations, as peer mentors or teaching assistants prior to graduation.

Program outcomes and data are available upon request.