ACEND Standards for Degree Programs

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Questions and Answers

What is the minimum amount of supervised experience hours required for a dietitian?

450 hours

1000 hours

1200 hours (correct)

750 hours

Which of the following are key areas of activity in dietetics as per supervised practice programs?

Clinical nutrition, Individual counseling, Community health

Clinical psychology, Food service management, Community services

Food science, Food service management, Nutrition research

Clinical nutrition, Food service management, Community dietetics (correct)

Which program offers a pathway to registration for individuals not matched for an internship placement?

Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISSP) (correct)

Dietetic Internship

Community dietetics program

Food service management program

What is required before a student can become an RDN or NDTR?

A period of supervised experience Signup and view all the answers

Who determines the requirements for acceptance into a supervised practice program?

The institution or program offering the experience Signup and view all the answers

Why is the application process advised to start early in the senior year?

To assemble all required materials before graduation Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the flexibility of supervised practice programs?

Programs may differ in the experiences they offer while meeting set standards. Signup and view all the answers

What is not a requirement when applying to a supervised experience program?

Having a verification statement from a doctoral program Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the essential standards that all degree and experience programs must adhere to?

Information for prospective students and the public Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the ACEND accreditation site visit?

To assist the program in continued assessment for qualified graduates Signup and view all the answers

How long may a program be accredited by ACEND?

5 to 10 years Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of supervised practice in dietetics?

To ensure competency in dietetics practice Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for a student to take the registration examination for becoming an RDN?

Finishing a dietetic internship Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT included as part of the standards for degree and experience programs?

Student extracurricular activities Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a program’s continued compliance with ACEND standards?

Periodic reports submitted to the Academy Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes competency in dietetics practice?

Capability to perform tasks within expected standards Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Program Standards and Evaluation

Standards are applicable to all degree and experience programs, encompassing program characteristics and resources, mission, goals, objectives, curriculum, faculty, supervised practice, and public information.
ACEND evaluates educational programs through accreditation site visits based on self-study documents prepared by program staff.
The site visit, conducted by registered dietitians, aims to ensure competency among graduates who can pass the registration examination.
Programs can achieve accreditation for a duration of 5 to 10 years, with periodic reports submitted to indicate ongoing adherence to educational standards.

Supervised Practice and Competencies

Preprofessional or supervised practice is critical for becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) or nutrition and dietetics technician, registered (NDTR).
Supervised practice for DPD students occurs post-degree, allowing them to apply knowledge in real work settings under preceptor guidance.
Successful completion of a supervised practice program qualifies individuals for the registration examination and active Academy membership.
Competency in dietetics is defined as performing tasks within expected standards and is the primary goal of supervised practice.

Experience Requirements and Flexibility

Supervised practice programs must provide a minimum of 1200 hours for dietitians and 450 hours for dietetic technicians (DTs).
Programs are required to meet educational standards but have flexibility in the types of experiences offered, tailored to student needs and program goals.
Experiences are structured around three key areas: clinical nutrition, food service management, and community dietetics.
If not all experiences are available in a single institution, programs can partner with local organizations to fulfill requirements.

Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISSP)

The ISSP provides an alternative route to registration for individuals not matched with an internship, including doctoral students lacking verification statements or completed coursework.
Acceptance criteria and preceptor selection for supervised practice programs are determined by the respective institutions.

Application Process Insights

A period of supervised experience is essential for eligibility to become an RDN or NDTR, and application acceptance is competitive.
Prospective candidates should initiate the application process in their senior year to ensure all materials are ready by graduation, including campus visits if necessary.

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Description

This quiz covers the standards set by ACEND for degree and experience programs, including characteristics, mission, curriculum, faculty, and evaluation processes. It is an essential resource for understanding program requirements and improving educational quality. Test your knowledge of these important standards.