The Department of Home Economics offers a combined Master of Science in Nutritional Science and AP4 field experience program. This field experience fulfills the registration eligibility requirements of the American Dietetic Association (ADA) to become a registered dietitian. Upon successful completion of AP4, the student will be eligible to write the Registration Examination for Dietitians.

The AP4 requires 1280 hours, 1187 hours of practice divided into three components: clinical dietetics, foodservice systems management and community nutrition. The Seminar in Dietetic Practice constitutes the remaining 93 hours of the AP4. The field experience is conducted off campus at a variety of excellent facilities. Opportunities exist in acute and long-term health care sites, as well as in teaching, research, community and governmental agencies. Students will therefore receive training in general dietetics with experiences that expose them to various specialty areas.

Admission Requirements:
1) Completion of Plan IV/V academic requirements as stipulated by ADA;
2) Earned baccalaureate degree;
3) GPA 3.0/4.0 scale (required on the last 60 units of courses completed);
4) Related volunteer or work experience in the United States;
5) Graduate standing in the CSULB Master of Science, Nutritional Science program;
6) Completion of the four core graduate courses, H EC 531, 533, 534, 562 or equivalent with a grade of "A" or "B";
7) Application materials to AP4 Director including three letters of recommendation and personal interview with Program Director.

Program Requirements:
Upon satisfactory completion of the Professional Practicum in Dietetics, H EC 591A and Seminar in Dietetic Practice, H EC 591B, the student will be able to meet the performance requirements for entry-level dietitians as specified by the ADA.

The 12 units of core graduate courses and a total of 2 units of H EC 591B are applicable toward the M.S. degree in Nutritional Science. Completion of the M.S. degree is not a requirement for completion of the AP4. Students should contact the AP4 Director for complete details on this program.

EFFECTIVE: FALL 1991