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UHDI Policies

Assessment of prior learning

  • It is the policy of the UHDI to grant credit for prior learning to interns who can provide documentation of significant compensated work experiences that comprise the same types of learning experiences as required by the ACEND competency statements in particular emphasis areas.

  • Prior learning credits are granted when there is a minimum of six months FTE paid work experience. Only hours that meet or exceed the number of required hours for a particular rotation will be considered. A maximum of 4 weeks will be waived with no partial credit allowed. There is no fee reduction.

  • The request for prior learning credit consideration and all associated paperwork must be submitted at least two weeks prior to program start date. Supervisor must submit letter of corroboration including dates of employment, hours worked, responsibilities, and activities performed. Prior Learning credit is not granted for clinical rotations.

  • Final determination of assessment of prior learning is at the discretion of the internship director.

Program admission and selection of interns

All applicants are reviewed by the selection committee.  Successful applicants must meet the following minimum admission standards:

  • A minimum of a masters degree for stand alone tracks and a minimum of a bachelors degree for the MSDI tracks.

  • Minimum DPD GPA of 3.4 (4 point scale), 3.0 overall GPA and 2.8 science GPA

  • Didactic program in Dietetics verification statement or intent to complete form

  • Significant paid work experience

  • Preference is given for NDTR credential and graduate degrees

  • Distance track applicants must have appropriate facilities arranged and submit a rotation schedule within the required time frame.  Must also have a signed Preceptor Agreement Form (pdf) for each rotation

Evaluation of interns:

Interns are evaluated formally and informally throughout the program.  Beginning with orientation, interns are evaluated on completion of online modules, group projects and presentations of pathophysiology case studies and EAL investigations as well as enteral/parenteral case studies, and simulations.  Submission of the weekly summaries are the basis of on-going evaluation of intern progress throughout the program.  Formal written evaluations occur between the intern and preceptor at the completion of each rotation. Interns are evaluated based on the specified competencies considered essential for an entry level dietitian set by the ACEND accreditation standards.  Professional behavior and attitude are also evaluated and documented in the evaluation form.  Another evaluation is completed by each intern to provide the program with input as to the effectiveness of the program.

In the event of unsatisfactory performance during any of the rotations, the preceptor and coordinator consult to determine the format of a redirection plan to allow the intern to achieve the competencies.  Inability to accomplish that plan may result in dismissal from the program.  Interns unable to meet the standards of the program will be redirected to consider other opportunities such as the NDTR credential.

Supervised practice documentation

Supervised practice hours are documented in the following ways:

  • Orientation hours include online modules, case studies, group projects and simulation.  These hours are documented and signed by the program director
  • Rotation hours are maintained on the program time sheet for each rotation, and intern meetings. These are signed by the preceptor or directors as appropriate
  • Prior learning hours are signed off by the supervisor of the work experience.  Maximum of 40 hours per week.