The OU Department of Nutritional Sciences offers Oklahoma’s only Coordinated Program for the Master of Arts in Dietetics (CPMA), a 68-hour, non-thesis professional degree based in Oklahoma City. Fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), the program prepares future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) through a rigorous blend of coursework and more than 1,000 hours of supervised practice. This integrated approach allows students to immediately apply classroom learning in real-world settings.
RDNs work in a wide range of fields—from clinical care and community health to foodservice leadership, disease prevention, and sports nutrition—using evidence-based strategies to improve health and quality of life. To become an RDN, individuals must complete a master’s degree, ACEND-accredited training, supervised practice, and pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam.
OU’s CPMA stands out by combining didactic and experiential learning throughout the program. Students gain hands-on experience in clinical, community, and foodservice settings while building professional connections across Oklahoma. Graduates are eligible to sit for the CDR credentialing exam and pursue state licensure or certification, as required.
While state interpretations of statutes may vary, it is ACEND's considered opinion that the program meets the educational requirements for dietetics licensure and certification in all states. However, completing an ACEND-accredited academic program alone does not qualify an individual for licensure or certification as a dietitian in any state. Individuals should review their state's licensing statutes and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice and examinations, needed to obtain a dietetics license. More information about state licensure and certification can be found at this link: State Licensure.
The program is science-focused and academically rigorous, requiring strong prerequisite preparation. Applicants apply through DICAS for fall admission. Coursework includes areas such as Medical Nutrition Therapy, Public Health Nutrition, Experimental Foods, Life Cycle Nutrition, and Foodservice Management—preparing graduates to translate nutrition science into effective professional practice.
Additional program information and policies, including graduation/program completion requirements and policy for credit for prior learning, can be found in the MA in Dietetics Student Handbook.
Dual-Degree Option Available
Students in the Coordinated Program for Master of Arts in Dietetics (CPMA) may have the opportunity to pursue a Master of Science (MS) in Nutritional Sciences alongside their MA. This option allows select coursework to count toward both degrees, providing an advanced academic experience focused on research, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Completing the MS is not required for becoming a registered dietitian but may offer additional career advantages. Interested students should contact the college for details.