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The master's of Advanced Practice in Dietetics (MAPD) is an accelerated, non-thesis professional degree designed to help meet the ACEND requirements of a master’s degree for all aspiring registered dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). With a comprehensive curriculum focused on advanced training in dietetics, students can complete the program in as little as one year.
Whether you aim to work in acute care clinical settings, outpatient centers, or community health organizations, this degree offers the depth of knowledge needed to expand your professional development. By offering advanced training in dietetics and nutritional sciences for new and experienced professionals in nutrition, the program prepares students at an advanced level and provides graduates with advanced knowledge, expanded skills, lifelong learning, and professional leadership to pursue a wide range of career options in dietetics.
With the MAPD, you can tailor your education to your specific career goals by choosing one of three specializations:
Each specialization provides a targeted curriculum that equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your chosen field. Whether you're looking to enhance your expertise in clinical settings or provide community-focused nutrition counseling, the program ensures a personalized learning experience that aligns with your career aspirations.
At CSU, you’ll learn from highly experienced dietetics professionals who are active in both research and practice. Our expert faculty bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring you’re exposed to the latest advancements in nutrition and dietetics. This direct connection to industry leaders gives you the tools and confidence to apply evidence-based practices in a variety of professional settings, helping you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the MAPD program offers fully online coursework that allows you to balance your studies with work or personal commitments. Whether you’re advancing your current career or transitioning to a new area within dietetics, CSU Online ensures you have access to interactive resources, faculty support, and the freedom to learn on your schedule. This convenience enables you to pursue your education without putting your career on hold, ensuring you stay on track with your academic and professional goals.
Program applicants should complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) as accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) prior to admission.
Note that meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on several factors, including prior academic and professional experience and the personal statement.
Graduates of the Accelerated Master’s in Dietetics program gain a competitive edge in the growing field of nutrition and preventive healthcare, while meeting the ACEND master’s degree requirement. With advanced knowledge and specialized skills, you’ll be well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in various settings such as:
The demand for dietitians is increasing across various sectors, including outpatient centers, research institutions, and community organizations. Whether you’re entering the field or advancing in your current role, this degree equips you to lead in both traditional and emerging areas of dietetics.
Alena has worked as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in private, community and clinical practice for over 25 years. She joined the faculty of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition in January of 2022. Previously, she was a professor and graduate program coordinator at University of Northern Colorado for fourteen years. Alena is also a Certified Lactation Counselor.
Michelle is an instructor and content developer for the FSHN department. She teaches primarily online, including several undergraduate courses and two courses she designed for the Graduate Certificate in Nutrition Sciences. She specializes in online content development, prioritizing accessible and inclusive design. She is always looking for new ways to incorporate active learning strategies and optimize engagement in her courses.
The overarching goal of Megan's research is to identify and inform systems, policy, and environmental approaches to obesity prevention, with a focus on children and families. Her current and future work examines the following: 1) meaningful differences in how children and parents respond to obesity prevention interventions; 2) individual, social, and contextual factors that modify individual and family responses to obesity prevention interventions; and 3) ways to leverage existing environmental changes (i.e., increases in healthier restaurant menu offerings) to promote family health and reduce obesity risk. Much of Megan's research is centered on the restaurant food environment.
James Peth is an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Colorado State University. James develops and teaches courses in nutrition. His main interest is preparing students to address complex issues in public health.
Brittney Sly is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Assistant Professor at Colorado State University. She is also the Director of the Coordinated Master’s Program in Dietetics and teaches courses in Medical Nutrition Therapy, Foodservice Management, Women’s Health, and Global Nutrition. Her research is focused on addressing malnutrition in rural populations using participatory action research methods. She works with vulnerable populations, including women and children, in Rwanda and Zambia. Personally, Brittney is a mother, mountain climber, gardener, foodie, reader of everything and traveler to everywhere.
Sarah Stotz is a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator. Her research focuses on addressing food and nutrition insecurity as it impacts adults with nutrition-related chronic disease (e.g., diabetes) with emphasis on health disparities, nutrition education, social determinants of health, and multilevel approaches to chronic disease management and prevention. Her work largely centers on serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities and she strives to cultivate authentic, equitable, and respectful relationships with the Native communities she serves. She has expertise in qualitative methods and enjoys providing qualitative methods mentoring and guidance for both students and faculty colleagues.
Yes, as long as the degree is from an accredited and reputable university, most employers treat online degrees the same as on-campus ones. Many programs do not even indicate “online” on the diploma. This degree can be completed in 1 year, but students do have the opportunity to extend the program to 2 years if interested. Yes, one of the biggest advantages of online learning is flexibility. Many students work full or part time while completing their degree, as courses are often asynchronous, meaning you can access them anytime. No, the MAPD offers a graduate degree only. Students interested in a coordinated program, which combines a graduate degree and a dietetic internship, should explore the Coordinated Master’s Program in Dietetics. Yes. The requirements for becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) include completing a graduate degree in a related field, which can be earned through either an in-person or online program. No. Although gaining advanced skills in a particular area of dietetics can help you work in that area, it does not mean you can only work in that area. Many dietitian roles require a breadth of skills that any specialization from our program will provide. Program applicants must complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) as accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) prior to admission. This program’s tuition is $627 per credit, with a total of 30 credits required. Tuition each semester is based on how many classes you take, plus a $33 fee charge. Online students usually have access to: No, you do not need to be enrolled in the entire program to take a single course. Students may enroll in individual classes with instructor permission. Please check individual course pages for any prerequisites and contact the instructor directly for permission to enroll. Taking an individual course can help you gain specific skills, explore a subject of interest, or fulfill continuing education needs without committing to the full program.Frequently Asked Questions
Is an online master’s degree respected by employers?
How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree?
Can I work while pursuing an online master’s degree?
Does the MAPD include a dietetic internship?
Can I still apply to a dietetic internship after I complete an online master’s degree?
If I complete my degree in one specialization will that mean I can only work in that area of dietetics?
What are the admission requirements for this online master’s program?
How much does the online master’s degree cost?
What kind of support will I get as an online student?
Do I need to be enrolled in the full program to take a single course?
Students may be admitted for the fall semester only.
| Fall semester | May 15 - Priority; July 1 - Final |
Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.
Apply NowProgram applicants must complete a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) as accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) prior to admission.
Note that meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on several factors, including prior academic and professional experience and the personal statement.
Prepare the materials below and upload when you apply online:
Note: Priority application deadline is May 15. Final deadline is July 1.
Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received.
CSU's Graduate School offers several application fee waiver opportunities. Visit their website to determine if you are eligible for a waiver.
Request one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from all institutions attended. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be received directly from the originating institution to be considered official.
Please Note: Students may be unconditionally admitted and registered in their first semester of courses with an unofficial transcript. Official transcripts must be submitted, prior to or during your first semester, before you can register for your second semester of graduate work. Failure to meet this condition will result in your dismissal from the Graduate School.
Electronic (preferred):
Digital Transcripts must be submitted by the originating institution using a secure service such as parchment, eScrip-Safe, the National Student Clearinghouse, or e-Quals. Transcripts received via emails are considered unofficial.
Use institution code 4075 for Colorado State University or gradadmissions@colostate.edu if the secure service requires an email address.
Mail (if necessary)
Graduate Admissions
Colorado State University – Office of Admissions
1062 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1062
View your application status at any time to ensure your application checklist is complete or to check on updates.
Once your complete application, including supporting materials, is received, the department admission committee will review your application and notify you of their decision.
Ensure official copies include a certified translation into English (only one set of transcripts is required).
Colorado State University requires that proficiency in English language be demonstrated either by the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE academic tests prior to admission. Please submit one of the official scores from the list below. Tests must be taken within two years prior to admission and submitted directly from the Educational Testing Service (select institution code: 4075).
All applicants who are citizens of countries in which English is not the official language, and who do not have an undergraduate degree from the U.S. must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores.
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