Dietetic Internship
Turn Nutrition Knowledge Into Professional Practice
Becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist requires more than classroom knowledge. Cal Poly's Dietetic Internship helps you take the next step through supervised practice that connects nutrition science with real-world experiences in healthcare, community nutrition and food service management.
Housed within the Food Science and Nutrition Department, the ACEND-accredited program offers supervised practice opportunities across California's Central Coast, including San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. You'll apply your knowledge in professional settings, develop practical skills and build the experience needed to pursue registration as a dietitian nutritionist.
Whether you're completing a graduate degree at Cal Poly or have already earned one, the Dietetic Internship provides a pathway toward fulfilling the supervised practice requirements for the RDN credential.
Two Pathways. One Professional Goal.
Cal Poly offers two options for students pursuing the supervised practice required to become registered dietitian nutritionists. Explore the pathway that aligns with your educational background and professional goals.
Graduate Degree and Dietetic Internship
Combine your dietetic internship with graduate study at Cal Poly. This option is designed for students enrolled in or accepted into a qualifying graduate program, such as the Master of Science in Nutrition, allowing you to pursue advanced education alongside supervised professional practice.
Stand-Alone Dietetic Internship
Already earned a graduate degree? Cal Poly's stand-alone Dietetic Internship offers eligible applicants the opportunity to complete the supervised practice component of their professional preparation without pursuing another degree.
Learn by Doing. Prepare to Make a Difference.
Through supervised rotations in clinical nutrition, community health and food service management, you'll work with professionals in hospitals, schools, public health programs and other settings. You'll develop skills in nutrition assessment, patient education, program management and professional communication while gaining experience serving diverse populations.
Your Path to Professional Practice.
The Dietetic Internship is an important step toward becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist. To qualify for the national registration examination, candidates must meet the applicable requirements, including:
- Earn a master's degree.
- Complete required coursework and obtain verification from an ACEND-accredited dietetics program.
- Successfully complete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program.
- Pass the national registration examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
State licensure requirements may also apply.
Take the Next Step
Ready to turn your nutrition education into professional experience? Connect with the Cal Poly Dietetic Internship team to learn more about program options, eligibility, supervised practice and the application process.