Comparison of two methods of educating dietitians

Area of Science:

• Dietetics
• Higher Education
• Professional Competency

Background:

• The American Dietetic Association (now Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics) has specific requirements for professional membership.
• Traditionally, a bachelor's degree coupled with an internship was the standard pathway.
• Alternative pathways, such as master's degrees with qualifying experience, are being explored to meet these requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the knowledge and perceived competence of master's degree graduates with qualifying experience against bachelor's degree graduates with internships.
• To evaluate if a master's degree with 6 months of qualifying experience is a viable alternative route for professional credentialing.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 29 graduates from San Jose State University.
• Participants included 17 bachelor's degree holders (with internships) and 12 master's degree holders (with qualifying experience).
• Data collection involved registration examination scores, self-ratings, and supervisor ratings of clinical and administrative competencies.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in mean registration examination scores between the two groups.
• Graduate self-ratings of competence did not differ significantly.
• Supervisors rated bachelor's degree graduates higher in clinical competencies, but administrative competency ratings were similar for both groups.

Conclusions:

• Master's degree programs with qualifying experience appear to be a viable educational pathway for professional credentialing.
• The findings support the acceptance of this alternative route for membership in The American Dietetic Association.
• Further research may explore specific skill differences and long-term career outcomes.