How to Apply for Dietetic Internships
General Timeline
You should begin investigating DI programs during the end of your junior year, and apply during the last semester of your senior year.
The annual application deadlines are in February and November, with more DIs accepting applications in February. Students graduating in May or during the summer typically apply by the February deadline to the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application Services (DICAS). Each DI provides directions for applying to their programs. Most use the DICAS site hosted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It is recommended that you watch the DICAS instructional video. In general, DICAS requires that you create an account and provide personal and background information, including details about your college education (transcripts for all colleges attended), details about DP courses, contact information of your DP Director (Ms. Youens at Texas State), a list of awards, experience, certifications, volunteer activities, an updated resume, three letters of reference (2 academic and 1 from volunteer/work experience), a list of DIs for which you are applying, etc. It takes some time to gather these materials. This system requires $50 to apply for the first DI, and an additional $25 for each additional program to which the student applies.
Computer Matching
Application to most DIs includes a computer matching process. Application is made online at D&D Digital. Applicants rank their preference for all internship to which they apply. This system requires $55 to register.
Specific Timeline
For those applying in February, the DICAS portal opens October 4th, the application deadline is in February, and results are reported at the D&D Digital (matching) website on the first Monday in April. For those applying in November, the DICAS portal opens July 1st.
How to Prepare for Dietetic Internships
Acceptance to DIs is awarded on a competitive basis, and most DIs use a computer-matching process. It generally takes 7-24 months to complete a DI, depending on whether the DI is full-time, part-time or combined with a Master of Science degree plan. All DIs require at least 1000 hours of supervised practice. For students who wish to become RDs, it is important to begin preparation from the time you enter college, by making every effort to:
• Maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher (in particular, earn good grades in DP and supportive science courses),
• Obtain relevant experience in nutrition and foods through work and volunteer activities,
• Develop a resume and professional portfolio that demonstrates your expertise and quality work,
• Obtain positive references from professionals who can attest to your unique skills and qualifications,
• Exhibit a professional demeanor, positive attitude, and excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Seek leadership roles if possible, in university’s organizations, Texas Academy of Nutrition, work, or in volunteer roles.
It is important to note that the match rate for acceptance into Dietetic Internships is approximately 50%. Graduates who are not matched during their first attempt often work for a year, or attend graduate school and then apply again.
All DP students are automatically added to the Nutrition Majors Canvas site. This site hosts a variety of information to include; resources for the DI application process, DICAS, NDTR, job and volunteer opportunities, scholarships, DI open houses, announcements and careers information. Students are encouraged to review the information provided and watch for email messages.
Each semester the DP or DI directors provide informational sessions to students about how to apply to dietetic internships. It is highly recommended that all students attend a session upon entrance to the program, and again in their junior year to fully understand the application process. Information about these sessions are advertised via email messages, fliers and the SNO Canvas page.
Occupational license HB 1508. The dietetics track degree plans prepare students for occupational licenses, such as education and dietetics. Jobs in these and related fields may require background checks. An individual who has been convicted of an offense may be ineligible for issuance of an occupational license upon completion of the educational program. You are encouraged to review all applicable eligibility requirements related to any occupational license of interest. Questions related to eligibility requirements should be directed to the applicable licensing authority. For more information, visit this website.