Application for Admission

The AU MS-DI Program accepts 20 interns annually – 16 interns for the MS-DI Program, 4 interns for the Verification Statement Only program

Admission Criteria for Degree-Requiring Students:

• Verification statement from an accredited DPD (completed within the last five years)
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and DPD GPA of 3.2.
• Grade of "C" or better in all DPD required courses
• Be eligible for admission to Auburn University Graduate School

Admission Criteria for Verification Statement Only Students:

• Verification statement from an accredited DPD (completed within the last five years)
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and DPD GPA of 3.2.
• Grade of "C" or better in all DPD required courses
• Evidence of completion of a graduate degree, with final degree conferred on an official transcript.

In instances where applicants do not meet the minimum GPA requirements for admission, they may be considered for probationary admission.

Application Process

1. Graduate School Application
1. Students must complete the AU Graduate School Application before they complete the DICAS application.
2. Application fee: $60.
2. Complete the Dietetics Inclusive Centralized Application Service (DICAS) application
1. The application fee is $50+, dependent on the number of program designations. Detailed information about DICAS application procedure and fees can be found on the DICAS Applicant Help Center.
3. The application must include the following:
1. Verification Statement from an accredited DPD program (within the last 5 years)
2. Resume -- should demonstrate evidence of leadership, paid or volunteer experience in dietetics or nutrition related experiences including time spent in a hospital setting
3. E-Portfolio -- This serves as a comprehensive digital showcase of your academic achievements, professional experiences, and personal growth. It is a vital component of your application. Include the link to your e-portfolio in your application materials. E-Portfolios can be housed in programs such as Squarespace, Wix, etc.
4. Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (unofficial acceptable for initial review); official transcripts will be required by the Graduate School and by the Dietetic Internship after admission.
5. Three letters of recommendation -- the letters must attest to the applicant's motivation and potential to succeed in the Dietetic Internship and Graduate School. Strong letters generally come from the following:
   1. Current or previous professor
   2. Current or previous work supervisor
   3. A registered dietitian you’ve interacted with professionally (if not applicable, use another professor or work supervisor)
6. Personal statement -- must demonstrate an ability to communicate well, both clearly and concisely, and must adequately address in less than 1000 words:
1. Why the applicant wants to enter the dietetics profession
2. What experiences the applicant has had that helped prepare him/her for a career in dietetics
3. The applicant's short- and long-term goals
4. The applicant's strengths and weaknesses or areas needing improvement
5. Alignment of personal and professional goals with the focus of the internship and the graduate program
7. Video Application -- This serves as an opportunity for us to learn more about you beyond your written application. Follow the instructions below to ensure your video meets all requirements.
1. Content:
1. Introduction (30-60 seconds):
1. Start with a brief introduction of yourself.
2. State your name, current academic status, and where you are from.
2. Personal and Professional Background (1-2 minutes):
1. Discuss your educational background and any relevant work or volunteer experiences.
2. Highlight specific experiences that have prepared you for a dietetic internship.
3. Interest in Dietetics (1-2 minutes):
1. Explain why you chose to pursue a career in dietetics.
2. Discuss any specific areas of dietetics that particularly interest you and why.
4. Why Auburn University? (1-2 minutes):
1. Explain why you are interested in the Dietetic Internship Program at Auburn University.
2. Mention any specific aspects of the program that appeal to you and how they align with your career goals.
5. Personal Qualities and Strengths (1-2 minutes):
1. Describe personal qualities and strengths that you possess which will contribute to your success as a dietetic intern and future dietitian.
2. Provide examples to illustrate these qualities.
6. Closing (30-60 seconds):
1. Summarize why you would be an excellent candidate for the Dietetic Internship Program.
2. Thank the selection committee for considering your application.
2. Technical Specifications:
1. The video should be no more than 5 minutes long.
2. Choose a neutral and professional background.
3. Ensure the video is well lit and that your face is clearly visible.
4. The audio should be clear and free of background noise.
5. Ensure there are no distractions or interruptions during the recording.
3. Additional Submission Information:
1. Include the link to your video in your application materials.
2. Double-check that the link works and that the video is accessible before submitting your application.
3. Points will be awarded for originality, so feel free to be creative and let your unique personality shine through.
4. Applicants may be invited to interview with the Program Director during the application process.
5. Practice what you want to say before recording to ensure clarity and confidence.
6. Be genuine and let your personality shine through.
7. Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview.
8. Review the video for any errors or issues before submission.
4. Admissions decisions:
1. October 1: Early Entry* applications are due, and review of applications begins
2. October 15: Early Entry applicant notification due date. Program will notify applicants on or before this date.
3. November 1: Early Entry applicant decision to accept an appointment due on or before this date.
4. November 1: Regular entry applications are due, and review of applications begins.
5. December 1: Applicant notification due date. Program will notify applicants on or before this date.
6. December 15: Applicant decision to accept an appointment due on or before this date.

*Early Entry is only open to Auburn University DPD Students.

Students must apply for the graduate degree through Auburn University by October 15, and not through DICAS.

NOTE: The Auburn University Dietetic Internship begins mid-May when the Summer semester begins.

CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have questions, please contact the Auburn University Dietetic Internship Director:

Kelsey Rushing, PhD, RDN, LD
102-F Poultry Science Building
260 Lem Morrison Drive, Auburn, AL 36849
O: 334-844-3429 | F: 334-844-7417 | E: krushing@auburn.edu