Frequently Asked Questions:
Nutritional Science Program

1. What is the difference between the BS option in Nutritional Science and the CDP?
The programs are slightly different, however, the main difference is that the CDP includes an internship equivalent. This internship equivalent is needed in order to be eligible to take the registration exam to become a Registered Dietitian. Graduates of the CDP are eligible to take this exam. The prerequisites for both programs are the same.

2. May I take the prerequisites at a community college?
Yes. Check with your counselor to make sure that the courses you take are equivalent to the courses required in the CDP. As far as undergraduate GE, you may take all of these at a community college (CC). However, if you do not select the required CDP prerequisites (for example Econ150 or Speech150) as part of you undergraduate GE at the community college, you will still need to take these courses at Cal State LA (or at the CC), even if you meet all GE transfer requirements. You will save time by selecting the CDP prerequisites which fit into the GE program at the CC or at Cal State LA. If you are pursuing a MS degree, the CDP prerequisites may be met by other courses than those listed; check with the CDP director for suitable substitutions.

3. How do I apply to the CDP?
Applications are available at the PE 206 School KNS office through mid January of each year. Applications are due to either office no later than March 1.

4. When will I be notified as to whether or not I have been accepted into the CDP?
You will be notified by mail no later than May 1 of the year you apply. If you have not received any notice by then, please call Dr. Calderon at (323) 343-5439.

5. What if I am not accepted into the CDP?
You will be placed on a waiting list if you meet all requirements of the program, then if a space does not become available you may reapply the following year. There is no limit to the number of times you may apply to the program. Keep in mind that there are other ways to become RD eligible besides the CDP. If you are not accepted, you should consult either Professor Pera Jambazian (last name beginning A-M or Professor Susan Lue (last name beginning N-Z), whichever advisor you have.

6. Who is my adviser when I am accepted into the CDP?
Dr. Laura Calderon becomes your adviser if you are a BS student. An academic advisor will be assigned to you if you are a graduate (MS) student. You should make an appointment to see Dr. Calderon every quarter once you are accepted into the program. Contact her either at (323) 343-5439 or by email: lcalder@calstatela.edu. Dr. Calderon is on campus every quarter to meet advisement needs. However, BS students MUST be advised by the College of HHS Advisement and Outreach Center (Fine Arts Building, second floor, FA 238 323/343-5500) prior to scheduling a meeting with Dr. Calderon.

7. How long is the CDP?
Regardless of whether you are a BS or MS student, and regardless of which courses you have completed, the CDP always takes a minimum of two years. This is due to the fact that NTRS315 (cannot be substituted) must be taken the Fall of year one, as well as planning for internship assignments.

8. How long will it take to complete the CDP with the BS option?
It usually takes two years once you start the program in Fall. However, some students opt to take an additional year to lighten the load. If you plan to do this you must advise the director as soon as possible.

9. How long will it take to complete the CDP with the MS option?
This depends on what CDP courses still need to be completed. If you have a BS degree in Nutrition from Cal State LA, then you might be able to complete the MS and CDP in 2 to 21/2 years. If you still require courses in the program that cannot be completed during this period, allow longer.

10. May I take MS classes while taking CDP classes, and will any of the CDP courses count in my MS program?
Yes, you may take courses concurrently. Some CDP courses will also count in your MS program. Consider, however, that the program can be very intense. You may wish to postpone taking some of your classes in either the MS or CDP program until the following year. Check with your adviser (s) for additional information and guidance.

11. May I apply to the CDP if my major is something other than Nutritional Science?
No, the CDP is open only to Nutritional Science majors, with BS or MS degree options.

12. Which classes can not be taken before entering the CDP?
The only classes you may not take before being accepted into the CDP are NTRS315, NTRS419S and NTRS419ABC.

13. STAR registration does not allow me to register for more than 16 units. I will need to take more than 16 units some quarters. How can I register for excess units (over 16 units)?
You must fill out an EXCESS UNIT PETITION which is available in the HHS Advisement and Outreach Center (FA 238). This petition is usually processed within 24-48 hours, but plan ahead so that you are ready to register by your STAR registration date.

14. What is the "internship equivalent", supervised practice, of the CDP?
The supervised practice component meets the ADA requirement of an internship equivalent. This component takes place during the final year of CDP and is three quarters long. One quarter is clinical experience, one is administrative and one is elective (specialty + geriatric + outpatient counseling). There are many facilities in the Los Angeles County area which are utilized to meet these requirements. The supervised practice takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, eight hours per day. A debriefing regarding these experiences is held on Mondays, immediately following the NTRS 419 seminar (9:30-noon = total time for both).

15. How soon after I finish my "internship" will I take the registration exam?
Most students take the exam within three months after completion of the CDP . However, some students still need to complete a course or two during the summer and must wait until the following January to take the exam. Students must possess a Bachelors degree in order to take the exam. The director of the program will give you all the information you need about taking the exam, and will go over a practice review.

16. Who should take the Review for the Registration Exam?
All CDP students should take this review session before they take the exam. Check with the director for times and courses. The cost is usually around $300.00. Taking this review course greatly improves your chances of passing the exam.

17. How can I get more involved so that I know what's going on?
Join the SNA (Student Nutrition Association) right away. Check with Dr. Calderon if you need more information about this organization.

18. Are there any professional associations I might join?
All students should join the ADA (American Dietetic Association). Your membership includes a monthly journal and automatic membership in the CDA (California Dietetic Association). You may also consider joining a local dietetic association. Please check with Dr. Calderon for additional information.