Bachelor's Degree (BSD) in
Dietetics (Didactic Program)

• Fully online, asynchronous coursework designed to support flexibility and work-life balanced
• Integrated experiential learning in select courses, providing real-world application of dietetics concepts
• Dedicated coordinator support, with a staff position focused exclusively on Online DPD student success
• Ideal for career changers and working adults seeking a flexible pathway to complete DPD requirements

This program is a good fit for those who already have a bachelor's degree but need to complete the academic requirements necessary to sit for the registered dietitian nutritionist (RD/RDN) credentialing examination. Please apply by selecting the "Transfer" undergraduate student application.

Due to the structure of the program, only the upper-level DPD courses are available for 100% online delivery. Students must complete prerequisite science and general education courses prior to admission. 

While most of these pre-major requirements are not offered online through the University of Kentucky, DHN 210 (Discovering Balance: A personal journey towards health and nutrition), DHN 212 (Introductory Nutrition) and DHN 241 (Food Service Systems Management) are available in an online format and must be taken prior to admission.

Please reach out to the program contact listed on this page with any questions.

No. The Online DPD is a degree-seeking program, and students must complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Dietetics. Even if you already hold a bachelor’s degree, you must be admitted as a degree-seeking student and complete all required coursework to earn the DPD verification statement.

• Apply to graduate programs in nutrition, dietetics, or related fields 
• Consider programs that also include supervised practice experience (such as coordinated or graduate programs), or
• Complete a standalone Dietetic Internship after or alongside their graduate degree

Yes. In addition to tuition and fees, students should anticipate some program-specific expenses. These may include student membership in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (required for DHN 301), textbooks and course materials (such as dietary analysis software), and costs for experiential learning such as transportation to practicum sites. 

Students are responsible for purchasing ingredients for courses with food lab components (DHN 302 and DHN 593). Other potential costs include professional meetings and application fees for supervised practice programs. Most of these expenses are common to both on-campus and online students, as they relate to professional preparation and course requirements rather than the delivery format. While costs vary based on individual choices and experiences, planning ahead for these expenses is recommended. 

Success in the Online DPD requires strong time-management skills, self-motivation, and active engagement with course materials. Students should be comfortable with technology and have reliable access to a computer (PC or Mac) that meets UK Online specifications, a stable internet connection, and a webcam for virtual sessions. More information about UK Online Technological Requirements can be found at https://online.uky.edu/online-learning-experience#requirements. 

Students are encouraged to participate actively in discussions, reach out to faculty during virtual office hours, and utilize available support resources. Because the program is primarily asynchronous, setting a consistent study schedule and staying organized will help students keep pace with assignments and deadlines. Finally, a commitment to professional development and proactive learning will ensure you get the most out of this rigorous program. 

Online exams are proctored to ensure academic integrity. All exams require Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, which restricts access to other applications and records the testing session.

In addition, courses use ProctorU, integrated with Canvas, for secure remote proctoring. Students will need a computer with a webcam and microphone, a reliable internet connection, and a valid photo ID for identity verification. 

Some courses include experiential learning components that must be completed at approved sites in your local area. Specifically, students enrolled in DHN 342 (Quantity Food Production), DHN 313 (Life Cycle & Community Nutrition II), and DHN 480 (Dietetics Pre-Professional Practice) will need to arrange these hands-on experiences. Students are responsible for securing sites, but program faculty will provide guidance and approval to ensure they meet course objectives. These experiences are essential for applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings and mirror the expectations of the on-campus program.