Directed Professional Study- NHM 491

What is NHM 491 Directed Individual Professional Study?

NHM 491 is a required DPD course for all students in the Food and Nutrition program and the Nutrition Sciences program.  The purpose of this course is to provide the student with opportunities to develop new, and/or enhance existing knowledge, skills and abilities through hands-on learning experiences in dietetics.

Course Objective: to provide the student with opportunities:

• to explore and experience areas of personal interest in dietetics.
• to develop/acquire skills consistent with the ACEND competencies.
• to develop and demonstrate skills expected of an entry-level practitioner.
• to demonstrate problem solving, critical thinking, communication and negotiation skills.
• to demonstrate professionalism and maturity expected of a student at this level.   

What are the pre-requisites for NHM 491? 
Students must have completed NHM 365 and 442 before taking NHM 491. 

When should student take NHM 491?
Campus students usually complete this class during the summer before the start of his/her senior year.  Distance students may register to complete this class only after the pre-requisites are completed.

All students (campus and distance) students must speak to his/her faculty advisor before registering for NHM 491.

What are the Course Requirements?

The general requirements are:

• A minimum of 160 clock hours is required (Full-time: 40 hours/week – 4 weeks).  CP students (and those seeking admission to the CP) must complete a minimum of 200 clock hours (5 weeks).
• Preceptor should be a Registered Dietitian, or be preapproved by the course instructor.
• Students must complete all UA required objectives.
• Students must also identify and propose a minimum of five (5) additional objectives to be completed based on his/her areas of interest and type of facility selected.  Objectives should be measurable and outcome oriented.
• It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and comply with the facilities requirements which may include, but is not limited to; immunization, fingerprinting, background check, credit checks, drug testing, HIPPA training, etc.,  and ensure they are completed and submitted prior to starting the NHM 491 Professional Study.
• CPR certification is strongly recommended.
• Students are responsible for all expenses associated with completing the Professional Study.

Note: There may be additional requirements.  Students should speak with his/her academic advisor for additional course requirements and information.

Documents and Forms (Campus Students)

1. NHM 491 Information & Requirements

2. Student-Faculty Information Form (2020)

3. NHM 491 Proposal Paper Guidelines and Requirements (2020)

4.  NHM 491 Letter to Preceptors

Examples of areas of practice and types of facilities: