Clinical Nutrition Program Student Handbook

Overview

Welcome to the Clinical Nutrition Program at University Health Sciences. This handbook serves as the central guide for all enrolled students, outlining program expectations, academic standards, clinical requirements, and valuable resources that support your journey toward becoming a competent nutrition professional.

The handbook is organized in a logical sequence, making it easy to locate the information you need at any point during your studies. Whether you are a firstyear student, a senior preparing for licensure, or a returning student, you will find sections specific to your status and goals.

Mission & Vision

Mission

To provide a rigorous, evidencebased education that prepares graduates to assess, plan, and implement nutrition interventions across diverse populations, while fostering ethical practice and lifelong learning.

Vision

To be a national leader in clinical nutrition education, recognized for excellence in research, community engagement, and the development of innovative nutrition professionals.

Academic Policies

Program Requirements

• Core Courses: Introduction to Nutrition, Biochemistry, Food Science, Nutrition Assessment, Therapeutic Nutrition, Research Methods.
• Electives: Pediatric Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, Geriatric Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition.
• Capstone Project: A researchoriented or practicebased project completed during the final semester.
• Credit Hours: Minimum 120 credit hours for graduation.

Grading Scale

Grades are assigned on a standard AF scale. A grade of C or higher is required for all core courses and clinical rotations. Reexamination is permitted once per semester for a failed core course.

Attendance & Participation

Attendance is mandatory for all lectures, labs, and clinical simulations. Students are expected to actively participate in discussions, group work, and case studies. Excessive absences may result in removal from the course.

Academic Integrity

All students must adhere to the universitys academic honesty policy. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of misrepresentation will be addressed according to the Student Conduct Code and may lead to suspension or dismissal.

Clinical Experience

Objectives

The clinical component bridges theory to practice. Students gain handson experience in nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and monitoring under the supervision of licensed dietitians.

Placement Sites

• University Medical Center Inpatient Nutrition Services
• Community Health Clinics Outpatient Counseling
• LongTerm Care Facilities Menu Planning & Therapy
• School-based Wellness Programs Nutrition Education

Requirements

• Complete a minimum of 900 supervised practice hours.
• Maintain a detailed clinical log approved by the site preceptor.
• Submit three reflective essays on the learning experience.
• Participate in a midrotation evaluation and a final competency assessment.

Professional Conduct

Students are expected to demonstrate professionalism at all times: punctuality, appropriate attire, confidentiality (HIPAA compliance), and respectful communication with patients, staff, and peers.

Student Resources

Academic Support

• tutoring center free assistance for core science courses.
• writing lab help with research papers and the capstone project.
• study groups organized by course coordinators each semester.

Financial Aid

Information about scholarships, grants, and loan repayment programs is available through the Office of Student Financial Services. Eligible students may apply for the Nutrition Leadership Scholarship, covering up to $5,000 per academic year.

Career Services

The Career Development Office offers resume workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs specifically tailored for nutrition professionals. Alumni networking events are held quarterly.

Wellness & Counseling

Recognizing the stress of rigorous programs, the university provides confidential counseling, peersupport groups, and a wellness app that tracks nutrition, sleep, and exercise.

Contact Information

Program Director: Dr. Maya Patel, Ph.D., RDN

Email: nutritiondept@university.edu

Phone: (555) 1234567

Office Hours: MondayFriday, 9:00am 4:00pm (by appointment)

For clinical site inquiries, contact the Clinical Coordinator, Mr. James Liu at jlui@university.edu.