Bachelor of Science in Dietetics
School of Family and Consumer Sciences
College of Education and Human Development
The Dietetics major in the School of Family and Consumer Sciences, within the College of Education and Human Development, is an interdisciplinary degree program that focuses on the principles of human nutrition and foods. Dietetics is becoming increasingly important in the health promotion and wellness of people of all ages and in the care of ill people. Rapid advances in medicine increase the dietitian’s role as a member of the health care team.
Various career opportunities are available to the registered dietitian. Clinical and community dietitians work closely with other health professionals in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, public health agencies, home health care, and industries in food service management. Administrative dietitians direct the planning, purchasing, production and service of meals in medical centers, restaurants and schools.
A dietitian may also work in food processing companies, public relations, computer companies, or the media. Dietitians with graduate degrees may teach or do research in the field. Experienced dietitians may become consultants and go into private practices.
The dietetics curriculum meets the requirements outlined by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetics Accreditation. The study of dietetics includes a wide range of courses in the humanities, behavioral and natural sciences, nutrition and food sciences, communication and analytical sciences. Laboratory experiences are an integral part of many professional courses.
Graduates must also complete a post-graduate dietetics internship. The final step in becoming a registered dietitian (R.D.) is to pass the national registration examination. As of July 1987, the State of Ohio requires licensure for all practicing registered dietitians.
A declaration of intent to study dietetics may be made at freshman orientation and registration or at a later date.
Program approval status: The Didactic Program in Dietetics is currently granted Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association, 120 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606, 312-899-4876.
Experiences in clinical settings are required in several professional courses. Students in food service management learn to prepare and serve quantity foods. Students also gain experiences through hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, and school lunch programs, as well as community nutrition programs.
Relevant summer work experiences give students further insights into dietetics.
Completing the requirements for high school graduation is necessary for admission to BGSU, but only finishing the minimum coursework will leave you unprepared for college. Consider taking four years of mathematics instead of the three that are required. Two, three or even four years of the same foreign language is excellent for preparation for college. You will also benefit from competency in computer use. Courses that provide exposure to or training in the visual and performing arts are excellent choices.
BGSU's website for future students contains University highlights, admissions procedures, financial aid information and many department profiles. It can be accessed at www.bgsu.edu.
Bowling Green State University is a vibrant university that engages, challenges and prepares students for meaningful futures. At BGSU, students enjoy an education that integrates personal growth, academic excellence and an environment that expands their thinking and potential. A mid-size residential university, BGSU has an enrollment of approximately 20,000 and a full-time faculty of more than 900 on its main campus. More than 200 undergraduate majors and programs are offered as well as master's and doctoral level programs.
NOTE: Information in this guide is subject to change without notice. To learn more about the official program of study for Dietetics, please check the undergraduate catalog online at www.bgsu.edu/catalog/EDHD/EDHD34.html.
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