Professional Practice in Dietetics

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Dietetics is one of the most dynamic and versatile of the health-related professions. A Master of Professional Practice in Dietetics (MPPD) degree prepares you to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and practice at an advanced level in dietetics.
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The Master of Professional Practice in Dietetics program offers two tracks: RD2B track trains future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN). Students complete dietetics-focused coursework and at least 1000 hours of supervised experiential learning in a competency-based accredited online program. International rotation options to Ghana and France are available. Graduates are ready to sit for the RDN exam. RDN track offers practicing RDNs an opportunity to obtain their master's degree in dietetics online, for leadership roles in diverse settings to promote human health and well-being and to improve quality of life.

Program Handbook RDN Track

Program Handbook RD2B Track


Degrees Offered:

  • Master of Professional Practice in Dietetics, M.P.P.D. (Distance) (RD2B Track)
  • Master of Professional Practice in Dietetics, M.P.P.D. (Distance) (RDN Track)

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • RDN Track only:
    • General Dietetics (Coursework Only)
    • Entrepreneurial Leadership in Dietetics (Coursework Only)
    • Medical Nutritional Therapy (Coursework Only)

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.0 year (Methods)
Online Degree Information

Dr. Mridul Datta

mppisu@iastate.edu
515-294-7565

Learning Goals

  • RD2B track goal 1: To provide integrated foundational knowledge and supervised experiential learning to prepare competent entry-level RDNs who possess skills necessary for success in the emerging roles in diverse settings.
  • RD2B track goal 2: To contribute to the pool of competent RDNs across the US.
  • RDN track goal 1: To advance the practice of dietetic professionals for leadership roles in diverse settings.
  • RDN track goal 2: To promote human health and well-being, and to improve the quality of life of their patients and communities.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • RD2B track: DPD Verification statement
  • RDN track: current RDN credential holder
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79 (for exams taken before January 21, 2026; 4.5 (for exams taken on or after January 21, 2026)
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo 115

Application Requirements

RD2B track: Check program website for application open and close dates

RDN track: Check program website for application open and close dates

Application Instructions