Program Overview

Emphasis Curriculum
 The unique 20 week emphasis curriculum provides diverse experiences to meet individual career goals and develop leadership skills. The curriculum is based on:

  • =Images= | Program OverviewCommission Accreditation for Dietetic Education of the American Dietetic Association Standards
  • OSF Saint Francis Medical Center Dietetic Internship Emphasis Curriculum Development Guide

After the dietetic interns demonstrate the necessary skills to perform the entry-level practice they may choose one or more of the following emphasis areas for their professional goals.

  • General
  • Medical Nutrition Therapy
  • Community
  • Foodservices Systems Management
  • Business/Entrepreneur

The goal of the emphasis curriculum is to help dietetic interns develop individual, in-depth knowledge and skills necessary for future proficiency in dietetics. However, it is not intended to prepare specialists or advanced level practitioners as defined for credentialing purpose.

Projects during the emphasis curriculum include:

Counseling at OSF Sisters Community Healthcare Center - nutrition counseling at an ambulatory clinic

Nutrition Education Luncheon - professional presentation to health professionals for 1 CPE

Cafeteria Alternatives Project - plan, organize, coordinate and market healthy food items to consumers

Woodford County Diabetes Class - plan, organize and teach a nutrition class for people with diabetes

Professional Portfolio Development

Clinical Experience - gain further MNT experience in your area of interest

Other optional projects during the emphasis curriculum may include:

  • Eating disorders unit
  • HIV clinic
  • Metabolic clinic
  • Inpatient and outpatient perinatal care
  • Corporate wellness
  • Nutrition presentations to the community
  • Food services & catering projects
  • Newsletter articles
  • Diabetes camp
  • National Nutrition Month® activities

* Participation in classes, seminars, and conferences is arranged according to the specific goals of the interns.