Iowa State University Master of Professional Practice in Dietetics

Our international community rotation in Ghana provides something different for everyone that participates. Current MPPD student Jayden jumped at the chance to have her first study abroad experience. "I had never done a study abroad before, but I thought this was a unique opportunity to do a nutrition internship in another country. Trying new things and embracing change is an essential life skill. Ghana was totally different from the U.S., but that is why I learned so much. Change is both exciting and challenging, but it is good! I was able to absorb the culture and see how "normal" life looks different for so many across the world, which made me grateful for what I have. I hope to take what I have learned about research and nutrition intervention into my future career as a registered dietitian."


Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences

Advance your skill set!

Our new RD Track focus areas reflect the scope and evolving complexity of contemporary dietetics practice. Choose your specialty:

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Dietetics
Medical Nutrition Therapy
General Dietetics

To begin this Fall, please apply by June 15th.
Visit our website for all the details!

Dzigbodi G., completed part of her community semester in Ghana. She had this to say about the experience: "Although I am originally from Africa, this is my first time visiting Ghana. From departure to arrival and throughout our stay, it has been a wonderful experience. Like many parts of Africa, the people were kind and welcoming. We spent four weeks at the Nutrition Research and Training Center in Assesewa, a small town located at 58miles from Accra. During our stay, we were joined by students from the University of Ghana, who helped us gain a deeper understanding of Ghanaian culture and cuisine. Being immersed in the local community and learning about its history and traditions has greatly helped us with nutrition recommendations for the community."

Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Science
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences

MPPD students Jasmine and Jordan helped their preceptors from North Polk Community School's Nutrition Department put together and hand out sack lunches to students from Centennial Elementary School at the end of the year Big Creek Bash at Big Creek Park on Friday. Pictured from left to right: Jasmine, Sarah, Anita Miller and Jordan.


Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Many of our dietetic competencies address integrating local foods into menus – we’re excited to have resources on increasing local food consumption in Iowa! Participate in the Iowa Local Food Challenge and receive information on finding local food, trying simple recipes, and turn small choices into real impact! Farmers market season started last weekend - be sure to visit yours!

New Specialized Focus Areas to Chart Your Future!!

Our RDN Track now offers you a choice of focus areas that reflect the scope and evolving complexity of contemporary dietetics practice. Visit our website for more information!

Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Happy Earth Day! Sustainability is a focus and our community nutrition supervised experience (FSHN 5550) incorporates the principles of sustainable, resilient, and healthy food and water systems. Our International Option in rural Ghana allows students to experience this first hand on a global scale.

Photo Credit to our MPPD Alumni
Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Jordan, a current MPPD student in FSHN 5560, had the opportunity to present along side her preceptor Alison St Germain, MS, RD, LD and her Joyful Eating intern this week in the undergraduate course, FSHN 3610 Nutrition Throughout the Lifespan. Alison said, “Together, we explored the complexity of eating disorder origins and pathways, and had meaningful discussions about the role students will play as future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists.”

Nutrition4ALLBodies
Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
Iowa State Student Health and Wellness
Iowa State University - College of Health and Human Sciences
Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

It's National Graduate Student Appreciation Week and we want to celebrate our students! Your dedication and hard work will set you up for success as future dietitians! We appreciate you!

Graduate College at Iowa State University

We are so fortunate to have preceptors who mentor and train our students to become future RDN's. Thanks to all of you for your hard work and dedication!

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics