So many of us switch majors and say "I have no idea what I want to do with my life!" Take me for example. I was a Biology major just because I liked science. I switched into Dietetics midway through my sophomore year. The dietetic internship didn't seem like a big deal. I thought everyone got one...Well, a coordinated program (CP) could have been an option for me once I decided I wanted to go into Dietetics.
What are coordinated programs and how come I have never heard of them?
According to the American Dietetic Association website, "The Coordinated Program (CP) includes both the required foundation knowledge (academic courses similar to a DPD) and competencies (supervised practice) in one degree granting program."
Most CPs enroll students at the beginning of their junior year. You only have to wait TWO years to know whether or not an RD certification is in your near future, instead of four years of undergrad only to find out you aren't in the 66% of students that get matched to a DI.
Some programs offer distance options, course transfer agreements, and even graduate degrees (which are different from combined Master's/DI programs). There are 55 options, with larger enrollments than internship programs. Click here for a complete list. It might be too late for some, but for all of those early on in your dietetics career, consider coordinated programs!
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