Antioch University

Programme overview

Antioch University’s Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND) is a distance‑learning, Coordinated Graduate Program (CP) with ACEND candidacy status that combines evidence‑based coursework and program‑provided supervised experiential learning (SEL). The curriculum includes remote classes, two one‑day in‑person workshops at Otterbein’s campus, and placement at SEL sites such as hospitals, clinics, schools, health departments and food banks. Successful completion produces a master’s degree, a verification statement for the credentialing exam and eligibility to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam to pursue registration as a dietitian nutritionist (RDN). The program totals 44 credits and 1,025 supervised experiential learning hours and runs approximately 21 months.

What you'll study

• Fall Year 1: Human and Nutrient Metabolism; Foundations of Dietetic Practice; Evidence‑Based Practice.
• Spring Year 1: Food Service Management; Lifecycle Nutrition; Research Design.
• Summer Year 1: Medical Nutrition Therapy 1; Public Health Nutrition; Capstone Seminar.
• Fall Year 2: Food Systems and Sustainability; Medical Nutrition Therapy 2; Allied Healthcare Administration.
• Spring Year 2: Weight Management and Counseling; Clinical Practicum and seminar; Capstone Completion and RDN Exam preparation.

The program emphasizes experiential learning across the food system (including local food production, food banks and public health programs), examination of structural drivers of food insecurity and disease, and development of competencies in nutrition education, food access initiatives and community‑based public health strategies.

Entry requirements

The published page indicates this is a master’s degree program delivered online with program‑provided SEL placements. Students should consult Antioch University Online Admissions for specific application prerequisites. Note: beginning January 1, 2024, a master’s degree is required to be eligible to take the CDR credentialing exam for registered dietitians.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to sit for the CDR exam and practice as registered dietitian nutritionists in settings such as acute care, long‑term care, outpatient clinics, schools, public health agencies and food banks. The curriculum targets entry‑level competence for clinical practice, community nutrition, public health and advocacy with training in leadership, communication and interdisciplinary teamwork.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Antioch offers a President’s Merit Scholarship for new master’s students with awards determined by prior academic performance (minimum 3.40 GPA) and work/life experience; the stated award is $6,000 disbursed equally over the first two academic years, contingent on full‑time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress. Prospective students should also review the university’s general financial aid and scholarships pages for additional options.