Perceptions of Non-university Affiliated Dietetic Internship Program Directors Regarding Education Requirements to Obtain a Master’s Degree as an Entry-level Dietitian
Purpose: The Commission on Dietetic Registration announced that entry-level eligibility requirements to become a registered dietitian would increase to include obtaining a Master’s degree. The objective of this study was to explore perceptions of non-university affiliated dietetic internship program directors regarding proposed education requirements. Methods: Directors participated in a phone survey of structured questions related to the topic. The population of focus was non-university affiliated dietetic internship program directors. Results: Program directors expressed viewpoints of positive, negative, and mixed regarding the increase in education requirements. Diversity and autonomy were among concerns expressed by program directors. Conclusion: The research found that this subset of stake holders remains conflicted with the decision by the Commission on Dietetic Registration that a Master’s degree would be the entry-level requirement to become a registered dietitian
