Internship Application Process

The University Dietetic Internship Program seeks candidates who are focused and capable of working with some degree of independence in a fast-paced environment. Candidates are screened and evaluated based on GPA. We currently have no minimum requirements, however applicants selected for the program typically have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Work or volunteer experience in the nutrition field is important, and an average of one year of relevant work or volunteer experience is recommended. Students selected for the program must demonstrate recent experience and coursework at least equivalent to that required by ACEND.

To Apply

By the program's deadlines, applicants must:

  1. Apply through Dietetic Inclusive Centralized Application Service (DICAS)
  2. Complete a supplemental application AND
  3. Participate in D & D Digital Online Dietetics Internship Matching Service

Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System

The program accepts applications submitted through the Dietetic Inclusive Centralized Application Service (DICAS). The fee to use DICAS is $50 for the first application submitted and $25 for each additional application. Applications must be submitted by the program's application deadline. 

Personal Statement

Applicants who apply to internships using DICAS will be asked to complete a personal statement in 1,000 words or less. Questions to be addressed in the personal statement may include:

  • Why do you want to enter the dietetics profession?
  • What are some experiences that have helped to prepare you for your career?
  • What are your short‐term and long‐term goals?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses or areas needing improvement?

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended should be sent to:

DICAS ‐ Transcript Dept.
PO Box 9118
Watertown, MA 02472

References

When completing the application form, applicants must include the name and contact information (specifically an email address) for each reference. This will trigger an email message requesting completion of a reference form. The form will be completed online. Students submitting more than one application will need to use the same individuals as references for each application.

Evaluation of Applications

The program reviews all completed applications submitted through DICAS. Applications are ranked and selected based on the criteria below.

Overall, DPD Science and Professional GPA (goal of >3.0; however transcripts are reviewed to ascertain if unforeseen circumstances impacted academic record).

  • Letter of Application
  • Work or Volunteer Experiences (in food, nutrition, dietetics arena): Clinical/Food/Community
  • Active in Professional Organizations
  • Evidence of Leadership
  • Outside Activities
  • Letters of Reference (DPD Director desirable) and two other references.

Supplemental Application

Complete the Supplemental Application Form, and submit it and the $50 application fee to the address provided on the form. Both the DICAS application and the supplemental application must be completed by the program's application deadline.

Computer Matching

All applicants to the program must participate in computer matching. Register for matching on the D&D Digital Systems website. There is a $65 registration fee. After payment is completed, a username for online access will be provided.

Interviews

The program director will contact candidates who are selected for an interview. After the completion of interviews, the rankings of applicants are submitted to the D&D Digital Systems in accordance with Academy deadlines.

Acceptance

At the completion of the match, applicants confirm acceptance of their match to the University Dietetic Internship Program per protocol, and Program Director Karon Felten works with each intern to complete the program requirements outlined in the Policies and Procedures For Interns.