The Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) option is a Bachelor of Science degree program. Students majoring in the DPD are given verification statement(s) signed by the program director when their names appear on the official graduation list. Courses in the curriculum are required so the DPD graduate will have the technical and academic knowledge to successfully compete for placement in a Dietetic Internship program, graduate school or for entry- level jobs. Students who successfully complete the Dietetic Internship will be eligible to take the national registration examination to become a Registered Dietitian (RD). The DPD program at Tuskegee University is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6995, 312/899-4876.

The curriculum focuses in the first two years on general degree requirements and a basic knowledge in the natural and social sciences. During the last two years emphasis is on both theory and clinical and/or laboratory experience necessary for meeting the minimum knowledge, skills and competencies requirements. No student will be verified without completing all the requirements.

1. Phase One: The first two years may be completed in the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences or at any other accredited college or university. The liberal and general education requirements are organized so that knowledge and skills are developed sequentially. Thus, the necessary knowledge base is developed for entry into phase two of the program.
2. Phase Two: To be eligible for entry into phase two of the program, students must have achieved the following:
   1. Overall grade point average of 3.0
   2. Minimum grade of “C” or higher in chemistry and biology courses.
3. Retention: To be retained in the program, students must maintain a 3.0 or higher in professional courses and an overall grade point average of 2.8 (on a four point scale).