University of New England

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical practice, applied research methods and leadership relevant to higher education, healthcare management, or community health. Coursework is delivered 100% online in instructor-led sessions while practice-based research threads through the program.

• Research and methods: foundational and advanced practice-based research skills (DCN 801, DCN 810) including ethical research practices, research design, data integrity, selection of analytical tests, quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods approaches, secondary data analysis, comprehensive literature review and manuscript authorship.
• Clinical practice: advanced nutrition assessment and therapeutic intervention (DCN 806) for complex conditions covering anthropometry and body composition, biochemical indices, metabolic prediction, nutrition-focused physical examination, malnutrition screening and evidence-based nutrition therapies.
• Leadership focus areas: optional concentrations prepare graduates to lead in higher education administration, healthcare and clinical management, or community health services with coursework and an advanced practice residency aligned to the chosen focus.
• Capstone components: a 320-hour advanced practice residency and a doctoral research project culminating in a publication-ready manuscript.

Entry requirements

Admission uses a holistic review. Required items include current credentialing as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (CDR credential or equivalent meeting U.S. standards), a masters degree from a regionally accredited institution (or international equivalent) and a graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (conditional consideration possible for lower GPAs). No GRE is required. Applicants submit an online application, resume/CV, transcripts showing conferral of the masters degree, a goal statement addressing motivation and alignment with a focus area (500700 words), and CDR credential verification. Applicants close to finishing a masters may receive conditional acceptance pending a final transcript. Prospective students may schedule a one-on-one conversation with the DCN Director to discuss fit and pathways through the program.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to assume leadership roles where advanced clinical expertise, research literacy and program development intersect. Typical outcomes include leadership positions in academic programs, clinical and healthcare management roles overseeing dietetics services, and directing or evaluating community health initiatives. The program trains students to collaborate across interdisciplinary healthcare teams and to contribute to innovation and evidence-based practice in nutrition and dietetics.

Scholarships & funding angle

The program page does not list specific scholarships. Prospective students should inquire with UNE about institutional aid, explore employer tuition assistance or professional sponsorship, and review external scholarship and grant options for doctoral-level study in nutrition and health professions. The online application is free to submit.