Elevate Your Career with the Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Program from UNE Online

An Overview of the DCN Program

The Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) at the University of New England (UNE) Online is designed to propel Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) into advanced positions in nutrition practice, research, leadership, and academia. This innovative 48-credit program is delivered entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals and a clear, structured path to degree completion in just three years.

Key Features of the DCN Program

1. Advanced Practice Doctorate

The DCN is a professional practice doctorate that emphasizes critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Students engage in advanced coursework that blends nutrition practice, scholarship, leadership skills, and educational theory. This integrated approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to deliver high-quality nutrition services and contribute to the field through scientific inquiry and research.

2. Flexible Online Learning

Understanding the demands on working professionals, UNE offers the DCN program 100% online. This flexibility allows students to balance their career, personal life, and education seamlessly. The program can be pursued full-time (5-6 credits per semester) or part-time (2-3 credits per semester), with courses available year-round in either 8-week or 16-week sessions.

3. Focused Leadership Tracks

Students have the opportunity to tailor their education to their career goals by selecting a leadership focus. The available focus areas are:

• Higher Education Administration
• Healthcare and Clinical Management
• Community Health Services

This customization allows students to align their projects, research, and residency hours with their specific professional aspirations, enhancing their expertise and marketability in their chosen field.

4. Practice-Based Research

A hallmark of the DCN program is its emphasis on practice-based research. Throughout the program, students engage in research projects that are designed to be directly applicable to their practice settings. These projects often lead to the production of publication-worthy manuscripts, contributing to the body of knowledge in clinical nutrition and enhancing the student’s professional portfolio.

5. Advanced Practice Residency and Doctoral Research Project

The program culminates in a rigorous advanced practice residency and a doctoral research project. Each student completes 320 hours of an advanced practice residency tailored to their professional goals and focus area. The doctoral research project allows students to delve deeply into a specific issue or innovation in clinical nutrition, under the guidance of experienced faculty, resulting in meaningful contributions to the field.

Admissions and Enrollment

The DCN program offers rolling admissions with entry points in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. This flexibility allows prospective students to begin their journey at a time that best fits their schedule.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the DCN program, applicants must:

• Hold a current RDN credential.
• Possess a master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., nutrition, public health, healthcare administration).
• Have a minimum of three years of professional experience as an RDN.

Why Choose UNE’s DCN Program?

Expertise and Support

UNE’s faculty are leaders in the field of clinical nutrition, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and support to the program. Students benefit from their mentorship and the collaborative learning environment that UNE fosters.

Career Advancement

Graduates of the DCN program are positioned to advance into roles that require a high level of expertise and leadership. Whether aiming for positions in higher education, healthcare administration, or community health services, the DCN equips RDNs with the skills and knowledge needed to excel and make a significant impact.

Commitment to Innovation

UNE’s commitment to innovation and excellence in education ensures that the DCN program stays at the forefront of clinical nutrition practice. The program’s curriculum is continually updated to reflect the latest research, trends, and best practices in the field.

The Doctor of Clinical Nutrition program at the University of New England is an exceptional opportunity for RDNs looking to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in the field of nutrition. With its flexible online format, focus on practice-based research, and emphasis on leadership and innovation, the DCN program provides the tools and support needed for success. Take the next step in your professional journey with UNE’s DCN program and become a leader in clinical nutrition.