Missions, Goals, Objectives and Outcomes

The Texas A&M University DPD Program is designed to provide the knowledge and skills at the undergraduate level that are needed to advance into an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship (DI) or supervised practice (SP) program followed by competent dietetics practice. The curriculum is comprised of courses in nutrition, foods, biochemistry, physiology, management, social and behavioral sciences, and other supporting courses. Emphasis is placed on the development and demonstration of technical and critical thinking skills, oral and written communication ability and professionalism with the intent of more thoroughly preparing our undergraduates for DI, SP, and graduate programs and the dietetic profession. Opportunities for the application of theoretical knowledge are provided through laboratory experiences, practicum exercises, and experiences with professionals in dietetics, nutrition, and food service operations on campus and in the Bryan/College Station community, and/or simulation in the classroom.

The mission of the Texas A&M University DPD Program is to prepare future leaders in the dietetic profession by providing a high quality undergraduate level education and high impact and experiential learning activities that generate strong technical knowledge, critical thinking, communication skills, and professionalism.

The mission of the DPD Program is in accord with the Texas A&M University goal of achieving educational excellence while contributing to scholastic advancement, discovery research and community engagement that leads to economic development in Texas.

DPD Program Goals and Measurable Objectives

The DPD program has established program goals with specific measurable achievement targets that are used to assess the achievement of each of the program’s goals. Data is collected on an ongoing basis to assess the achievement of the program goals and targets. Goals and measurable program outcomes are identified below.

Program Goal 1

To prepare Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) graduates with the technical knowledge and skills for successful admission into ACEND-accredited dietetic internships (DI) and supervised practice (SP) programs, graduate school, and/or employment in nutrition, dietetics and related areas.

Program Objectives for Goal 1

• At least 90% of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) agree that the NUTR curriculum provided technical knowledge, communication skills, and life science courses that enhanced their critical thinking skills in preparation for ACEND-accredited supervised practice programs as indicated by their critical thinking skills in preparation for ACEND-accredited supervised practice programs as indicated by the annual graduate survey outcomes.
• At least 90% of Supervised Practice Directors agree that they were satisfied with those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) preparation for supervised practice as indicated by director survey outcomes.
• At least 80% of students complete DPD program requirements within three and a half years (150% of the program length).
• At least 70% of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) apply for admission to a supervised practice program prior to or within 12 months of graduation.
• Of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) who apply to a supervised practice program, at least 80% are admitted within 12 months of graduation.
• At least 10% of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) who do not enter a supervised practice program enter graduate school within 12 months of graduation.
• At least 90% of Supervised Practice Directors will agree that those who complete the Texas A&M University DPD program were prepared with technical knowledge and skills to succeed in the program as indicated by director survey outcomes
The program’s one-year pass rate (those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.

Program Goal 2

To prepare those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) to exhibit leadership and professionalism in ACEND-accredited supervised practice programs.

Program Objectives for Goal 2

• At least 90% of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) display professional ethics by honoring their acceptance to the specified supervised practice programs that they matched during the match process as indicated by DPD program match records.
• At least 90% of those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) agree that the NUTR curriculum provided the opportunity to strengthen their leadership and collaboration skills through group projects and assignments as indicated by annual graduate survey outcomes.
• At least 90% of Supervised Practice Directors will agree that those who complete the DPD program (undergraduates and post-graduates) displayed professionalism, leadership, and the ability to effectively work collaboratively as indicated by director survey outcomes.

DPD Program Outcomes

DPD student performance is routinely monitored to identify the early detection of academic difficulty. Resources are in place to assist students as needed. DPD learning outcome assessment data is collected each semester and formal assessment is conducted annually. DPD student assessment and DPD program outcome data is used to prepare reports of progress and performance and is reported annually to the DPD Advisory Committee. Assessment and program outcomes are available on request. Contact Dr. Karen Beathard, DPD Director, at karen.beathard@ag.tamu.edu to request annual data.