About MS Nutrition - Public Health Nutrition (Dietetics)
The Master's of Science in Nutrition, Concentration in Public Health Nutrition-- Dietetics option, is a two-year graduate program for students who have not completed an undergraduate program in dietetics.
First Year
Students complete coursework during the first year with a concentration in public health nutrition, including nutrition education, epidemiology, community and public health nutrition, and public health nutrition leadership.
Second Year
In the second year, students complete the required supervised practice hours and competencies within clinical, community and food systems settings.
This program starts in the fall semester. The online application must be completed using DICAS by 11:59 pm Central Time on February 2, 2026. Students will be notified of acceptance into the program by the end of February.
Visit the ACEND 'Application Process for Students' website: https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend/students-and-advancing-education/application-process-for-students to learn more about the entire process.
Program Overview
App State’s graduate program in PHN/Dietetics provides a fast-track, ACEND-accredited pathway to becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and does not require an undergraduate degree in dietetics (see program prerequisites).
This full-time, two-year nutrition graduate program combines advanced coursework with 1,000+ hours of supervised experiential learning (SEL), equipping students with both academic knowledge and practical, real-world skills. In the first year, students complete asynchronous online courses with integrated SEL hours. The second year consists of SEL across clinical, community, and food systems management settings. Students play a lead role in securing their own SEL sites anywhere in the US to tailor their learning experience.
Accreditation
The graduate program in Public Health Nutrition and Dietetics, is accredited by the:
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
Phone: 800-877-1600 ext. 5400
www.eatrightpro.org/acend
Why choose the program?
Integrated MS + Supervised Experiential Learning
The program blends graduate-level study with supervised experiential learning so students can complete their Master of Science in Nutrition and obtain eligibility for the RDN credentialing exam efficiently.Flexible online coursework and rotation sites
During the first year, coursework is primarily asynchronous and includes supervised experiential learning so students can begin to make connections for your rotations in year two. Most rotation sites can be arranged near where the student lives.Faculty Mentorship and Research Opportunities
Students work closely with expert faculty and preceptors who are leaders in clinical nutrition, public health and community-based research. Their mentorship supports professional development, from supervised practice through the capstone project.
Career Outcomes
App State’s graduate program in Public Health Nutrition -- Dietetics prepares graduates to become Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) ready to meet the growing demand for qualified nutrition professionals in North Carolina and beyond.
Alumni excel in diverse nutrition and dietetics careers, including:
Clinical Nutrition & Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) – providing evidence-based care in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Community & Public Health Nutrition – leading programs that promote food security, wellness, and chronic disease prevention across North Carolina communities.
Food Service & Nutrition Management – managing nutrition operations in healthcare systems, K–12 schools, and senior living settings.
Private Practice & Corporate Wellness – delivering personalized nutrition counseling, telehealth services, and worksite wellness initiatives.
Research, Education & Nutrition Policy – advancing the field through academic teaching, program evaluation, and policy development at state and national levels.
App State alumni are highly sought after for their ability to translate evidence-based practice into meaningful community and clinical outcomes.
Ready to Make an Impact? Apply to App State
Admission to the graduate program in Public Health Nutrition (Dietetics) is considered through the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application Services (DICAS).
Applicants must:
Hold a bachelor’s degree
Complete the following prerequisite courses:
Biology
Chemistry 1
Organic Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Introductory Nutrition
Basic Food Science
Food Safety, or certificate
Psychology
Medical Terminology
Statistics
GRE not required
How To Apply
Submit your application via DICAS by February 2, 2026.
A completed application includes:Personal Statement outlining your professional goals, interests, and motivation for becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Introductory Video (brief self-introduction and summary of your interest in the program)
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Three Letters of Recommendation from academic or professional references
Official Transcripts
The program does not conduct formal interviews. Program faculty welcome meeting with prospective students to answer questions and discuss the program.