Welcome & Program Overview
Welcome to the Arkansas State University Coordinated Program in Dietetics
The faculty and staff of the Dietetics Program extend our sincere appreciation for the contributions you make to our students, our program, and the profession of dietetics. Without dedicated preceptors, dietetic education would not be possible.
We recognize that you take on this role in addition to your many professional responsibilities, without extra pay or tangible rewards. Serving as a preceptor requires significant time and commitment, and we deeply respect the dedication you bring to supporting the next generation of dietitians.
Please know that we are here to support you. If you have questions, needs, or concerns, we are only a phone call or email away. We also welcome your feedback and ideas for program improvement, as your perspective is essential to strengthening the learning experience for our students.
Program Contact
Dr. Tiffany Sterling, EdD, RD, LD, FAND
Director, Coordinated Program in Dietetics
College of Nursing and Health Professions
PO Box 910
State University, AR 72467
Office: 870-680-8598
Email: dietetics@astate.edu
Program Mission
The Dietetics Program at Arkansas State University is committed to meeting the need for registered dietitians in the Delta region and beyond. We provide high-quality, equitable, and inclusive education and supervised practice experiences that prepare all students for professional success in nutrition and dietetics.
Program Goals and Objectives
The successful graduate of the Arkansas State University Coordinated Program in Dietetics will:
1. Perform as a knowledgeable, competent entry-level dietitian
- At least 80% of program students complete program/degree requirements within 3 years (150% of program length).
- Of graduates who seek employment, 80% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
- 80% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
- The program’s one-year pass rate on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
- 80% of graduates working in dietetics receive a score of “average or higher” for professional conduct when rated by employers on satisfaction surveys.
2. Pursue service to the profession of nutrition and dietetics
- At least 70% of program graduates will pursue service to the profession of dietetics as a preceptor, leader, through civic engagement, or through active participation in professional organizations within 3 years post-graduation.
Outcomes data are available upon request.
*Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) required objectives.
What is a Coordinated Program?
Arkansas State University’s Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP) began in 2012 as the only program of its kind in Arkansas. Originally offered at the undergraduate level, it has since transitioned into a fully online graduate program, awarding the Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSND).
A coordinated program integrates graduate-level coursework with 1,080 hours of supervised practice. Students complete both components simultaneously, allowing them to immediately apply classroom learning in professional settings. This highly structured approach ensures that supervised practice experiences reinforce academic content and prepare graduates for entry-level dietetics practice.
Student Readiness & Compliance Requirements
Insurance Requirements
All students must carry health, automobile, and professional liability insurance and provide documentation to the program director before beginning supervised practice rotations.
Travel
Students may be required to travel to sites within a 75–90 mile radius of their home. They must furnish their own reliable transportation and assume all costs and liability. Travel time does not count toward supervised practice hours.
Injury or Illness at Supervised Practice Sites
Students who are injured or become ill during supervised practice will be sent to the Emergency Room or private physician as appropriate. Students are responsible for any financial expenses incurred, as well as health insurance to cover such emergencies and follow-up care.
Drug Testing and Criminal Background Checks
Students are required to undergo a drug test and criminal background check if required by the supervised practice site. Students are responsible for any fees associated with these procedures.
Professional Dress Code
Students are expected to dress in a clean, neat, and professional manner at all supervised practice sites. Improper attire will result in dismissal to change clothes, and time lost is considered absence time.
Specific dress expectations vary by rotation (e.g., lab coat required in clinical settings, slip-resistant shoes in food service, A-State t-shirt at Farmer’s Market). See full handbook for detailed attire guidelines.
Professional Behaviors
Students are expected to demonstrate ethical performance, punctuality, completion of assignments, positive relationships, compliance with dress code, and responsiveness to feedback. Unprofessional or disruptive behavior may result in corrective or disciplinary action.
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices
Cell phones and electronic devices may be used only as professional resources or in emergencies, at the discretion of the faculty member or clinical site. Unauthorized photography or storage of patient information is strictly prohibited under HIPAA.