MS in Clinical Nutrition:
For RDNs
Masters Program Designed Exclusively for the RDN Is Offered Online
The Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition is an advanced-level, clinically focused, graduate degree program designed exclusively for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). We prepare graduates with the advanced knowledge, expanded skills, and intellectual maturity necessary to become progressive, innovative, and interprofessional practitioners and leaders in the dynamic health care environment.
Courses are completed online and supplemented with virtual face-to-face meetings.
Please note the application deadline is June 1 for Fall admission.
“The master’s at the Rutgers SHP DCPNS is truly unique. I have learned a lot through many high-quality clinically focused courses, where I could always apply what I learned directly in the clinical everyday life/in direct patient care. On the other hand, practice-oriented research competencies are taught at a high level and this in a very structured, intensive mentoring-like approach. I would start the Master again at the Rutgers SHP DCPNS anytime and also highly recommend it to everyone.”
“Completion of the Rutgers MS in Clinical Nutrition provided me with the tools and confidence to engage in research projects and present at professional conferences. The knowledge that I gained from the program enhanced my leadership skills and career growth.”
“The MSCN program at Rutgers University has helped me grow into a more skeptical and critical consumer of research, a leader in my area of practice, and a novice researcher. This program is exceptional for dietitians looking to refine and develop higher-level skills for dietetic practice.”
“The MSCN program at Rutgers will challenge you to enhance your critical thinking and provide you with many opportunities to work with and learn from RD’s with unique experiences and perspectives across the country. I could easily apply the information I was learning to my professional practice and was encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone to pursue professional publication which is something I never thought I could do. I recommend this program to all RD’s looking to advance their professional potential.”
To learn more, email
mscn@shp.rutgers.edu
or Program Director
Dr. Rena Zelig
Students gain the critical thinking and scientific skills needed for advanced-level clinical practice, management, and leadership positions. Our M.S. in Clinical Nutrition program instills an appreciation for interprofessional collaboration and education, and provides opportunities to achieve expanded roles in health promotion, disease prevention, and intervention for a 21st Century multi-cultural society.
We offer:
- A graduate-degree program exclusively for RDNs, with part-time and full-time options
- A curriculum integrating advanced clinical practice topics, critical thinking, scientific writing, evidence-based practice and research
- A Nutrition Focused Physical Examination (NFPE) course that integrates online learning with an in-person workshop
- Students complete a capstone research project
- A hybrid model with didactic courses offered through our web-based Learning Management System, supported with synchronous and asynchronous sessions providing flexibility for working adult learners
- A university ranked #1 in best colleges for health professions education by College Factual in 2018
- Advances knowledge and expands skills necessary to execute the role of innovative and progressive dietetics practitioners
- Provides an outcomes-oriented, student-centered approach to graduate education
- Promotes collaboration and interdisciplinary education through advanced level courses
- Promotes the design, conduct, and analysis of clinical nutrition/dietetics research
- Advocates professional leadership and service
Upon graduation, students will have the skills to:
- Provide medical nutrition therapy, utilizing the Nutrition Care Process model inclusive of standardized language for nutrition diagnosing, assessment, care planning, and monitoring of medically complex patients with acute, chronic, and terminal illnesses;
- Collaborate with health care team members in the interdisciplinary and interprofessional management of specialized nutrition modalities, conditions and illnesses;
- Establish nutrition practices for health promotion, disease prevention, and management independently or in collaboration with health care provider organizations;
- Design and conduct dietetics/nutrition research in a variety of settings;
- Become intelligent, critical consumers of research and scholarly work, able to incorporate the current scientific knowledge and emerging trends in science into practice;
- Utilize effective management, leadership, and information technology skills to guide dietetics practice into the future.
- Interpret and apply evidence-based research literature in clinical practice;
- Design, implement, and evaluate health and medical nutrition therapy interventions in a multi-cultural society;
- Assume roles as competent clinical practitioners;
- Become lifelong learners, using self-assessment and continuing education to persistently advance individual knowledge and skills;
- Comply with the Code of Ethics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and display ethical behavior in practice, education, and scholarly activities.
Graduates of the MSCN have many career options and opportunities available after completing the program. They are prepared to assume leadership roles and receive recognition for excellence in clinical practice and leadership.
Alumni publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at international and national forums, conduct research, and hold leadership positions in professional organizations. Graduates practice in diverse care settings, including acute care, ambulatory care, and long-term care.
The MSCN prepares students to be advanced-level RDNs in practice. Alumni work in clinical management, academia, industry, and specialty and advanced practice.
Based on our most recent alumni survey:
- 58% of alumni have presented an oral or poster presentation at a national or international meeting
- 54% of alumni have published a manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal or newsletter, authored a book, book chapter or other professional publication
- 51% of alumni are involved in research activities
- 21% of alumni received honors or awards since graduating from the MSCN program
- 14% of alumni hold leadership positions in professional organizations
For Student and Alumni Abstracts, click here.
For Student and Alumni Poster Presentations, click here.
You are invited to a Virtual Information Sessions to explore degree programs from the Rutgers School of Health Professions. Please register in advance to receive the Zoom link.
| Monday, Sept. 9 6:00 p.m. Eastern Via a Zoom Link |
Monday, Oct. 28 2:00 p.m. Eastern Via a Zoom Link |
Monday, Nov. 18 2:00 p.m. Eastern Via a Zoom Link |
Monday, Dec. 2 6:00 p.m. Eastern Via a Zoom Link |
| Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 2:00 p.m. Eastern Via a Zoom Link |
What Our Students Say
“I had a successful career but needed a change. As this was a second career for me, I knew I needed a first-rate education to set me up for my second act. The Rutgers program did that for me and I love my new life helping people.”–Tricia Scott-Sahler January 2022 Graduate
“I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to participate in the Rutgers MS in Clinical Nutrition for Aspiring Dietitians! This program allowed me to change career paths without having to complete a second Bachelor’s degree; upon graduation, I felt able and ready to enter the workforce as a dietitian and I continue to enjoy working in the field today!”–Sarah Hatzenbuhler January 2022 Graduate
“Transitioning from exercise science to dietetics was challenging due to the limited options for programs accepting candidates without a bachelor’s degree in nutrition. Thankfully, I stumbled upon Rutgers’ Masters of Science in Clinical Nutrition program, which not only accepted non-traditional candidates like me but also provided an accelerated, hands-on learning experience through a flipped classroom approach. This program, coupled with prerequisite courses, offers the perfect pathway for aspiring dietitians facing similar hurdles.” —Zoe Paxos January 2023 Graduate
“MS in Clinical Nutrition: For Aspiring Dietitians has truly changed my life. Moving across the world to start this program was worth it, it gave me opportunities I never thought I would have, provided me with connections, made me think outside of the box, and challenged me to become a better clinician. As I am currently an inpatient clinical dietitian, I am grateful that I am able to apply every single thing I learned into practice on a daily basis. I would recommend anyone who’s interested to apply, you will not regret it!”–Jennifer Chalhoub January 2022 Graduate
Admission to the Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition program is offered once a year for the fall term.
The application deadline is June 1.
Admission Requirements
- Prospective students must be Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs).
- International applicants must hold an equivalent credential that meets US standards set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (www.cdrnet.org).
- International students must submit additional materials including:
– Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
– Official copy of a transcript evaluation prepared by a recognized transcript agency such as World Education Services - A minimum GPA of 3.2 is required for admission. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered on an individual basis.
- At least six months of clinical experience as an RDN by time of matriculation into program (September when the fall semester begins).
- Application materials include
- SHP application
- An official copy of the transcript from the highest nutrition degree earned, and a certificate of completion/transcript from preprofessional practice program, if applicable
- Copy of RDN card
- Resume or CV
- A letter of intent describing short and long-term goals for completing the MSCN program
- One letter of recommendation from an individual with a graduate degree who is familiar with your professional work
Applicants who meet the admission criteria for the M.S. in Clinical Nutrition will be scheduled for an interview with select faculty in the Rutgers SHP Department of Clinical and Preventative Nutrition Sciences.
For Tuition and Fees, please see the Graduate Tuition and Fees.
(Scroll down to 2023-2024 Rutgers Health Tuition and Fee Rates and click on School of Health Professions)
- The Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition is a 31-credit hybrid program that can be completed on a part- or full-time basis. Courses are offered through our web-based Learning Management System, supported with synchronous face-to-face virtual meetings and asynchronous sessions providing flexibility for working adult learners. Our curriculum integrates critical thinking, scientific writing, and evidence-based practice in nutrition and dietetics. Requirements for graduation include successful completion of 31 credits.
- Program Requirements and course descriptions
- Course Schedule
| Course Requirements | Course Credits | Section Credits |
| Core Courses: 12 credits (4 courses) | 12 | |
| NUTR 6100 – Scientific Writing and Interpretation for Nutrition and Dietetics Practice | 3 | |
| NUTR 6260 – Nutrition Focused Physical Examination | 3 | |
| NUTR 6400 – Leadership and Change | 3 | |
| NUTR 6601 – Advanced Clinical Nutrition | 3 | |
| Research Courses: 7 credits (3 courses). | 7 | |
| NUTR 6481 – Statistics and Research Designs in Nutrition and Dietetics | 1 | |
| NUTR 6482 – Applied Clinical Nutrition Research | 3 | |
| NUTR 6485 – Capstone Research Seminar | 3 | |
| Health Sciences: 6 credits (choose 2 courses; 3 credits each) | 6 | |
| Choose from: | ||
| NUTR 6300 – Vitamin and Mineral Metabolism | 3 | |
| NUTR 7210 – Human Metabolism and Body Composition | 3 | |
| NUTR 7510 – Nutrition and Pharmacology | 3 | |
| Elective Credits: 6 credits (2 courses; 3 credits each) | 6 | |
| For a comprehensive list of elective courses please visit: | ||
Quick links:
Canvas online learning platform
Rutgers online library
Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences Facebook page
Rutgers Student Alumni Connect Portal where students and alumni can connect and network
https://careerconnect.rutgers.edu/hub/student-alumni-career-connect/groups-v2/nutrition/about
The M.S. in Clinical Nutrition is a 31-credit, hybrid, advanced-level, clinically-focused, graduate degree program designed exclusively for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Courses are offered through our web-based Learning Management System, supported with synchronous face-to-face virtual meetings and asynchronous sessions providing flexibility for working adult learners. Our program instills an appreciation for interprofessional collaboration and education, and provides opportunities to achieve expanded roles in health promotion, disease prevention, and intervention for a 21st century multi-cultural society.
Students are prepared with the critical thinking and scientific skills needed for advanced-level clinical practice, management, and leadership positions. Our program prepares graduates with the advanced knowledge, expanded skills, and intellectual maturity necessary to become progressive, innovative, and interprofessional practitioners and leaders in the dynamic health care environment.
Graduates of the MSCN have many career options and opportunities available after completing the program. They are prepared to assume leadership roles and receive recognition for excellence in clinical practice and leadership. Alumni publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at international and national forums, conduct research, and hold leadership positions in professional organizations. Graduates practice in diverse care settings, including acute care, ambulatory care, and long-term care.
- Prospective students must be Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs).
- International applicants must hold an equivalent credential that meets U.S. standards by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- International students must submit additional materials including:
– Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
– Official copy of a transcript evaluation prepared by a recognized transcript agency such as World Education Services - A minimum GPA of 3.2 is required for admission. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered on an individual basis.
- At least six months of clinical experience as an RDN by time of matriculation into program (September when the fall semester begins).The application deadline for the MSCN program is March 1 for Fall admission.
Through the SHP application.
Application materials include:
- An official copy of the transcript from the highest nutrition degree earned and a certificate of completion /transcript from pre-professional practice program, if applicable
- Copy of RDN card
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- A letter of intent describing short- and long-term goals for completing the MSCN program
- One letter of recommendation from an individual with a graduate degree who is familiar with your professional work
Applicants who meet the admission criteria will be scheduled for an interview with select faculty in the Rutgers SHP Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences.
The MSCN program can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. Our cohort model groups students together for an enhanced educational experience which fosters academic success, and allows students to complete the program in approximately 3 years on a part time basis.
Yes. Most elective and some required courses are available for non-matriculated students.
To apply as a non-matriculated student please refer to The Center for Advancement and Continuing Education’s page.
The MSCN-DCN Dual Enrollment program provides an opportunity for prospective students to obtain the M.S. in Clinical Nutrition and Doctor of Clinical Nutrition degrees. These advanced practice degree programs emphasize interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice through hybrid (synchronous and asynchronous), a master’s research project, a mentored advanced practice clinical residency, and a practice-based research study.
Both the MSCN and DCN programs are advanced-level, clinically focused, graduate degree programs designed exclusively for Registered Dietitians (RD). The ideal candidates for this track are self-motivated RD practitioners who are committed to advancing their knowledge, skills, research and practice and would like to do so in an expedited time frame. Our graduates are innovative, autonomous, advanced dietetics practitioners and researchers with expert-level knowledge and skills, critical thinking proficiency, and aptitude in scientific inquiry.
Our dual degree program instills an appreciation for advanced clinical practice and research. Students complete a 350-hour mentored clinical nutrition advanced practice residency individualized to meet their professional goals and geographic resources. The residency is preceded by academic courses offered through our web-based Learning Management System, supported with synchronous face-to-face virtual meetings and asynchronous sessions providing flexibility for working adult learners. The residency is an approved advanced-practice residency by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
This dual enrollment program is a hybrid program. Our cohort model groups students together for an enhanced educational experience which fosters academic success through an expedited course sequence which is designed to accelerate the completion of courses and both degrees within 5.5 years.
Admission is offered once a year for the MSCN-DCN Dual Enrollment program. The application deadline is March 1 for the following Fall term. Applications can be accessed at: http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/apply/apply-now.
- Prospective students must be Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs).
- At least 1 year of clinical experience as an RDN by time of matriculation into program (September when the fall semester begins).
- International applicants must hold an equivalent credential that meets US standards set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (www.cdrnet.org).
- A minimum GPA of 3.4 from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended is required for admission.
SHP application to MSCN-DCN Dual Enrollment program
RD Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Number
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended
Resume or CV
Two letters of recommendation from individuals with a graduate degree who are familiar with applicant’s professional and/or academic work addressing professionalism, communication skills (written and oral), and other relevant characteristics and skills
A letter of intent describing short and long-term goals for completing the MSCN and DCN programs. Applicants should address their interest in this dual degree route, clinical and research interests
Applicants who meet the admission criteria for the MSCN-DCN Dual Enrollment program will be scheduled for an interview with members of the program selection committee.
Students accepted into the MSCN-DCN Dual Enrollment program are conditionally accepted into the DCN if they maintain the criteria below throughout the program:
- Maintain an annual GPA of 3.4
- Maintain good financial standing within the institution
- Maintain good ethical, professional and academic standing with no honor code infractions at the level 1 violation or higher
Questions? Email Program Director Rena Zelig.
The Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences offers several graduate program options to match the growing opportunities in nutrition and dietetics. Identify your path below.
| For Aspiring Dietitians | For Aspiring Public Health Dietitians | For Practicing RDNs | For Practicing RDNs | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Our Programs |
MS in Clinical Nutrition |
MPH in Nutrition & Dietetic Internship Certificate |
MS in Clinical Nutrition |
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition |
| Admission Criteria | Bachelor’s Degree & DPD Verification Statement OR Prerequisite Courses | Bachelor’s Degree & DPD Verification Statement | Bachelor’s Degree & RDN Credential | Master’s Degree, RDN Credential, & 3 years experience post-RDN |
| Description | 16 Month Combined MS & Supervised Experiential Learning Program | 20 Month Combined MPH & Dietetic Internship Graduate Certificate | 3 Year, Part-time Clinically-Focused Graduate Program Designed Exclusively for Practicing RDNs | Clinical Nutrition Doctorate with an Advanced Practice Residency & Practice-Based Research |
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