clinical nutrition grad - School of Health Related Professions

D E P A R T M E N T O F
N U T R I T I O N A L S C I E N C E S
it’s all
about
Choices…
School of Health Related Professions
S H R P
Graduate Programs in
Clinical Nutrition

Choices…
Students who choose
UMDNJ's School
of Health Related
Professions want
a University that is
exclusively dedicated
to healthcare, with
state-of-the-art
equipment, rigorous
coursework, and faculty
who care. All of our
resources go toward
supporting a healthcare
educational environment
that attracts and nurtures
the very best
faculty and students.
-2-

GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN CLINICAL NUTRITION
Table of Contents
Graduate Programs in Clinical Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Strategic Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition
Missions, Goals and Competencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Requirements for Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Requirements for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition
Mission, Goals, and Competencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Requirements for Admission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Requirements for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Elective Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Graduate Program Course Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Application Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Non-Matriculated Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Continuing Professional Education Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Program Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
SHRP Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
UMDNJ Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
-3-

GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN CLINICAL NUTRITION
DEPARTMENT OF NUTRITIONAL SCIENCES
The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) - School of Health
Related Professions (SHRP) supports the philosophy that learning is life-long; dietetics
programs are offered on the preprofessional, master’s and doctoral levels.
Individuals may also take academic courses for continuing professional education
credit.
In 1995, SHRP introduced the first master’s level program in New Jersey designed
exclusively for Registered Dietitians (RDs). This web-based Master of Science in
Clinical Nutrition (MSCN) program provides a clinically challenging and rigorous
graduate education in nutrition. The program is unique in regards to its distance education
options and for advanced-level practice opportunities in clinical, community,
public health and management settings.
In 2000, the Ph.D. in Health Sciences-Nutrition Track opened. This web-based doctor
of philosophy program provides an academically challenging and rigorous doctoral
education in research with a focus on nutrition. The program serves to prepare
RDs for assuming leadership roles in research, academic, and/or clinical settings.
In 2003, SHRP opened the first clinical doctorate program in nutrition (DCN). This
web-based program focuses on expert clinical practice assuring that RDs remain integral
members of the health care team. The program requires completion of a clinical
doctorate residency and an outcomes research project.
In addition to the advanced-level MSCN, DCN, and Ph.D. degree options, SHRP has
been a long time leader in dietetic education. The Dietetic Internship (DI) has been
preparing dietetics professionals for entry-level practice since 1973. In 1998, a
Coordinated Program (CP) for Dietetic Technicians, Registered (DTRs) wishing to
pursue dietetic registration eligibility was added.
This brochure addresses the Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and the Doctorate
in Clinical Nutrition programs. Additional information about any of the aforementioned
programs can be accessed by visiting the SHRP website:
http://shrp.umdnj.edu/.
-4-

GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN CLINICAL NUTRITION
Strategic Vision:
The Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MSCN) and the Doctorate in Clinical
Nutrition (DCN) Programs are models for advanced-level graduate study in clinical
nutrition. The programs utilize a web-based platform to educate a diverse group of
RD professionals to service the state, nation and communities abroad. Graduates are
prepared with critical thinking and scientific skills needed for advanced-level clinical
practice, management, research, and leadership roles to respond to the challenges of
the 21st century. Graduates are consumers of research and scholarship, able to
design, conduct, analyze and publish scientifically sound research and other peer
reviewed papers on evidence-based dietetics practice. The program instills an appreciation
for interdisciplinary collaboration and education, provides “upskilling”
opportunities to achieve expanded roles in health promotion, disease prevention and
intervention for a multi-cultural society.
-5-

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CLINICAL NUTRITION
MSCN Mission Statement:
The MSCN is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence through an individualized
advanced-level, clinically focused graduate degree program. The program instills an
appreciation of lifelong learning, professional leadership and service. It prepares
graduates with the advanced knowledge, expanded skills, and intellectual maturity
necessary to become progressive, innovative and interprofessional practitioners and
leaders in the dynamic health care environment.
MSCN Goal Statements
The MSCN:
1. Advances knowledge and expands skills necessary to execute the role of innovative
and progressive dietetics practitioners;
2. Provides an outcome oriented, student centered approach to graduate education;
3. Promotes collaboration and interdisciplinary education through advanced level
courses;
4. Promotes the design, conduct, and analysis of clinical nutrition/dietetics research;
5. Advocates professional leadership and service.
MSCN Competencies
Upon the completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to:
11. Provide medical nutrition therapy utilizing the Nutrition Care Process model
inclusive of standardized language for nutrition diagnosing, assessment, care
planning and monitoring of medically complex patients with acute, chronic, and
terminal illnesses.
12. Collaborate with health care team members in the interdisciplinary management
of specialized nutrition modalities, conditions, and illnesses.
13. Establish nutrition practices for health promotion, disease prevention and management
independently or in collaboration with health care provider organizations.
14. Design and conduct dietetics/nutrition research in a variety of settings.
15. Become intelligent, critical consumers of research and scholarly work, able to
incorporate the current scientific knowledge and emerging trends in science into
practice.
16. Utilize effective management, leadership, and information technology skills to
guide dietetics practice into the future.
17. Interpret and apply evidence-based research literature in clinical practice.
18. Design, implement, and evaluate health and medical nutrition therapy interventions
in a multi-cultural society.
19. Assume roles as competent ‘upskilled’ practitioners.
10. Become life-long learners, using self-assessment and continuing education to persistently
advance individual knowledge and skills.
11. Comply with the Code of Ethics of the American Dietetic Association and display
ethical behavior in practice, education, and scholarly activities.
-6-

Requirements for Admission into the MSCN Program:
Prospective students must be RDs. Application materials include the SHRP application
available at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/, an official copy of the transcript for the highest
nutrition degree earned, a notarized copy of RD card, a resume, and a letter stating
short and long term goals for completing the MSCN Program. All applicants that
meet the admission criteria will be scheduled for an interview with select faculty in the
UMDNJ Graduate Programs in Clinical Nutrition. Students may apply for admission
to the fall or spring semesters. Refer to http://shrp.umdnj.edu for deadlines.
Graduates of the UMDNJ - SHRP Dietetic Internship and Coordinated Program who
maintained a 3.2 GPA in the internship are accepted into the program if they complete
all application procedures. Six elective credits from their graduate internship
course work may be transferred when the MSCN is started within five years of graduation
from the Dietetic Internship. These graduates must submit all application
materials except undergraduate transcripts. A letter must be included with the application
materials stating the graduation date from UMDNJ.
The MSCN program provides advanced-level nutrition education for other health
professionals including physicians, physician assistants, dentists, and other allied
health professionals on a non-matriculated basis.
Program of Study & Graduation Requirements:
The MSCN can be completed online on a part or full time basis. Students are
required to come to campus in New Jersey a minimum of two times during their
coursework. Successful completion of the following courses, totaling 31 credits, is
required for graduation. For the current semester schedule visit
http://shrp.umdnj.edu/nutr.
MSCN Course Requirements for Graduation
NUTR 6380 Thesis Seminar 3 credits
NUTR 6400 Clinical Management 3 credits
NUTR 6480 Applied Clinical Research 4 credits
NUTR 6601 Advanced Clinical Nutrition 3 credits
NUTR 6609 Subspecialty Clinical Practice 3 credits
Health Sciences
Electives
6 credits
9 credits
31 credits
Health Sciences may include: Pathophysiology (NURS 5104), Applied Physiology
(NUTR 6260), Nutrition and Exercise Physiology (NUTR 6270), Vitamin and
Mineral Metabolism (NUTR 6300), Nutrition and Pharmacology (NUTR 7510),
Human Metabolism and Body Composition (NUTR 7210), graduate level biochemistry,
or other sciences as approved by faculty advisor. For a list of elective courses, see
page 11 of this brochure.
-7-

DOCTORATE IN CLINICAL
NUTRITION
DCN Mission Statement
The Doctorate of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence
through a clinically focused dietetics practice doctorate program. It prepares graduates
with expert-level knowledge and skills, critical thinking proficiency, and aptitude
in scientific inquiry to foster the development of innovative, autonomous advanced
dietetics practitioners and researchers. The program emphasizes interprofessional
collaboration through coursework and a student focused clinical residency. The curriculum
integrates evidence-based practice in nutrition and dietetics which provides
the foundation for graduates to complete an outcomes research project.
DCN Goal Statements
The DCN:
1. Provides an in-depth study of clinical nutrition and evidence based practice through
cutting-edge coursework and a clinical practice residency to prepare graduates to
assume the role of an advanced-level dietetics practitioner.
2. Prepares graduates to be able to design, conduct, and analyze clinical outcomes
research in diverse settings.
3. Develops experts in evidence-based nutrition practice using clinical reasoning and
scientific inquiry.
4. Fosters professional leadership, service, and scholarly efforts.
DCN Competencies
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to:
Practice:
1. Practice as an advanced dietetics practitioner for individuals, communities, and/or
clinical populations with expert-level competency in assessment, diagnosis, implementation
and evaluation of clinical nutrition care plans using the Nutrition Care
Process model, standardized language, and evidence-based practice guidelines.
2. Conduct a comprehensive nutrition-focused physical assessment and interpret
results relative to nutritional well-being using nutritional diagnostic reasoning and
standardized language.
3. Incorporate knowledge of body composition and nutritional physiology to guide
clinical decision making in the assessment of healthy and medically complex
patients with acute, chronic and terminal illnesses.
4. Assimilate knowledge of drug-nutrient, and drug-dietary supplement interactions
and associated pharmokinetics and pharmacodynamics in patient care.
5. Apply a global perspective to professional practice by incorporating scientific, clinical
and cultural implications of food and nutrition into clinical practice.
-8-

16. Apply critical thinking skills in communication, information management, problem
solving and resource utilization to foster professional autonomy in clinical
practice.
17. Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team, industry and academia
as the nutrition expert.
18. Mentor and teach clinical nutrition practice to students and colleagues across
diverse health care arenas.
19. Analyze current nutritional interventions using an evidence-based approach.
10. Become life-long learners, using self-assessment and continuing education to continuously
advance individual knowledge and skills.
11. Comply with the Code of Ethics of the American Dietetic Association and display
ethical behavior in practice, education, and scholarly activities.
Research:
1. Demonstrate competence in the interpretation and critique of scientific healthcare
literature using an evidence analysis approach; apply and integrate findings into
practice settings.
2. Design, conduct, analyze, and author papers on clinical nutrition outcomes
research.
3. Present and defend research findings to professional audiences and develop a manuscript
worthy of publication to a peer reviewed journal.
Requirements for Admission into the Doctorate of Clinical Nutrition
Applicants must have the RD credential, a master’s degree, preferably in nutrition or
a health related field (with a minimum GPA of 3.4) and have at least three years of
professional experience as a clinical RD. All applicants that meet the admission criteria
will be scheduled for an interview with select faculty in the UMDNJ Graduate
Programs in Clinical Nutrition.
Application materials for submission include a SHRP application available at
http://shrp.umdnj.edu/, a letter stating short and long term goals for completing the
DCN, a notarized copy of RD card, a resume, and transcripts from the highest degree
earned. If the highest degree is not in nutrition, the transcripts from the nutrition
degree must be included. Applicants who are foreign-trained must take the Test of
English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and must submit an official copy of a transcript
evaluation prepared by a recognized transcript evaluation agency such as:
World Education Services Inc., PO Box 5087, Bowling Green Station, New York, NY,
10274-5087, http://www.wes.org/ ; or similar transcript evaluation service. Foreigntrained
applicants who have completed a master’s degree in the U.S. are eligible for a
waiver from this requirement.
-9-

Program of Study & Graduation Requirements
The 51-credit program taken on a part-time basis (9 to 15 credits per year) generally
takes approximately four to five years to complete, depending on semester credit
loads. UMDNJ-SHRP graduates of the MSCN program who enter the DCN within
five years of graduation from the MSCN may be eligible to receive credit for courses
taken in the MSCN program that are part of the DCN curriculum. Individuals with
another master’s degree or prior master’s level coursework completed within the past
five years may request a review of courses for credit. Portfolio assessment credit may
be applied and granted for professional experience if it coincides with the content of
one or more of the DCN courses.
Once students have successfully defended their pilot research in NUTR 6380 and all
other coursework, they can enroll in NUTR 7009 Clinical Practice Residency and
NUTR 7481 Clinical Nutrition Research Methods. Students are required to come to
campus in New Jersey a minimum of three times over the course of their study.
Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 (‘B’ or higher) throughout the program.
Students whose performance in the clinical practice residency falls below a ‘B’ grade
may be scheduled for additional residency time to successfully meet the program
competencies. Successful completion of the following courses, totaling 51 credits is
required for graduation. For current semester schedule visit: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/nutr.
DCN Course Requirements for Graduation
NUTR 6260 Applied Physiology 3 credits
NUTR 6300 Vitamin and Mineral Metabolism 3 credits
NUTR 6380 Thesis Seminar 3 credits
NUTR 6400 Clinical Management 3 credits
NUTR 6480 Applied Clinical Research 4 credits
NUTR 6601 Advanced Clinical Nutrition 3 credits
NUTR 7009 Clinical Practice Residency 5 credits
NUTR 7210 Human Metabolism & Body Composition 3 credits
NUTR 7320 Advanced Clinical Nutrition Seminar 3 credits
NUTR 7481 Clinical Nutrition Research Methods 3 credits
NUTR 7482 Clinical Research Seminar 3 credits
NUTR 7510 Nutrition and Pharmacology 3 credits
PCAR 7115 Complementary & Alternative Medicine Seminar 3 credits
Electives
9 credits
51 credits
For a list of elective courses, see page 11 of this brochure.
-10-

ELECTIVE COURSES
All courses are 3 graduate credits unless otherwise indicated.*
Course Title
Course Number
Independent Study (1 to 3 credits) NUTR 6000
Lactation Education NUTR 6120
Applied Physiology NUTR 6260
Nutrition & Exercise Physiology NUTR 6270
Pediatric Nutrition NUTR 6310
Nutrition and Aging NUTR 6420
Nutrition Assessment of the Older Adult NUTR 6440
Cultural Issues Influencing Health NUTR 6500
Ethical Issues in Health Care Practice NUTR 6505
Current Nutrition Issues in Health Care NUTR 6510
Nutritional Genomics for Practitioners NUTR 6820
Current Issues in Nutrition NUTR 7110
Human Metabolism and Body Composition NUTR 7210
Nutrition and Behavior Management NUTR 7512
Advanced Technological Applications in Dietetics NUTR 7310
Advanced Clinical Nutrition Seminar NUTR 7320
Nutrition and Pharmacology NUTR 7510
Women’s Health PCAR 7410
Complementary & Alternative Medicine Seminar PCAR 7115
Pathophysiology NURS 5104
Information Mgmt & Communication Technologies IDST 5000
Multidisciplinary Dimensions of Clinical Systems Mgmt. IDST 5100
Health Services Issues & Trends IDST 5110
Teaching in the Health Professions IDST 5140
Curriculum Development in Health Professions Education IDST 5210
Management and Leadership in Health Professions Education IDST 5240
Managing Disease in Older Adults IDST 5310
Social and Health Care Policy for Older Adults IDST 5320
Approaches to the Older Adult IDST 5330
Strategic Planning and the Management of Health Systems IDST 6110
Evidence Based Literature Review IDST 6400
Health Care Information Systems BINF 5005
Clinical Problem Solving and Decision Making BINF 5125
Interactive Learning Systems for Health Sciences BINF 5312
Clinical Information Systems Design BINF 5403
*Note: 7000 level courses are for students in the DCN or Ph.D. programs. Master’s
level students may enroll in these courses with permission from their advisor and the
course director.
Course Codes:
BINF: SHRP Department of Health Informatics
IDST: SHRP Department of Interdisciplinary Studies
NUTR: SHRP Department of Nutritional Sciences
NURS: School of Nursing
PCAR: SHRP Department of Primary Care
-11-

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
All courses are 3 credits and web-based unless otherwise noted.
NUTR 6000 Independent Study (1, 2 or 3 credits)
Opportunities for directed inquiry into a problem or population of practical or theoretical
importance to dietetic practice are available. Experiences may include serving
as a research or teaching assistant or developing a project.
NUTR 6120 Lactation Education
Didactic and simulated clinical case-based learning via an interdisciplinary approach
to breastfeeding education and promotion. The physiological, psychosocial, immunologic
and economic benefits of breastfeeding to the infant and mother are covered in
the course. Strategies for breastfeeding education during pregnancy, infancy and
beyond infancy are addressed in normal and medically challenged situations.
NUTR 6260 Applied Physiology (includes 3-day in-person workshop)
This course provides an introduction to physical and diagnostic assessment of health
status. Physical assessment competencies to be attained at the novice level include:
assessment of body composition, measurement of vital signs, physical assessment of
fluid status, assessment of ‘normal’ breath and heart sounds, intra- and extra-oral
assessment, dysphagia screening, and clinical assessment of nutrition status. The inperson
workshop includes discussion and demonstration of techniques and practice
under expert supervision.
NUTR 6270 Nutrition and Exercise Physiology
This seminar focuses on the interaction between diet/nutrition and exercise in health
promotion, weight control and management of chronic disease. The synergistic relationship
between exercise and diet management of clients with weight management
problems and chronic diseases is explored through online seminars and case discussions.
Health promotion guidelines for diet and exercise are addressed. Exercise and
diet/nutrition guidelines for client assessment, education and monitoring are
addressed.
NUTR 6300 Vitamin and Mineral Metabolism
Theories and principles of vitamin and mineral metabolism combined with their
application in clinical care and health promotion. Vitamins, minerals, and other natural
and synthetic elements, with known or postulated nutrient effects, are explored
in a combined lecture and seminar course. Effects of food technology on nutrient
availability and longevity in the food supply, ‘nutraceuticals’ and federal policy and
agencies governing vitamin and minerals are included. The first half of the course,
taught by vitamin and mineral researchers, focuses on nutrient metabolism, function,
and requirements throughout the lifespan and the multiple factors affecting needs and
availability in health and disease. The second half of the course is seminar based and
links the biochemistry of vitamins and minerals to clinical practice and consumer use.
-12-

NUTR 6310 Pediatric Nutrition
Advanced study of nutrition and diet in the neonate, infant, and child. The course
focuses on the interrelationships of growth and development of the infant/child with
nutrition status in health and disease. Nutrition for health promotion, the effects of
malnutrition, disease and demographics on nutrition status, nutrient needs, feeding
strategies, and normal growth and development are covered including pathophysiology
of growth and development and their effect on organ systems. Nutrition assessment,
planning, monitoring, counseling, and evaluation strategies are covered
through lectures, literature reviews and case applications. Effects of medications, congenital
and acquired diseases, treatments and the physical environment are included.
The unique needs of this population for initial and ongoing counseling and monitoring
are covered in discussions of psychological, ethical and social dynamics of care.
NUTR 6380 Thesis Seminar
The focus of the seminar course is completion of data analysis, evaluation, interpretation
and preparation and presentation of the research thesis. (Prerequisite NUTR
6480).
NUTR 6400 Clinical Management
Application of the principles of management and clinical nutrition in the administration
of nutrition services in various settings: acute and long-term care, ambulatory
care and consultant services. Theories, techniques and tools drawn from current literature
in business, management, health care and dietetics along with innovative practices
are applied to nutrition management. Foundations of management, standards
of practice, organizational design, and policies and procedures are used to teach
development of a management framework in the clinical setting. Other topics include
strategic planning, financial and human management, leadership styles, meetings,
mentoring and task delegation.
NUTR 6420 Nutrition and Aging
Advanced study of nutrition in the aging individual during health and disease. The
course focuses on the interrelationships of the physiological, psychosocial, functional,
economic, environmental, and pharmacological factors affecting the nutritional
status of older adults. Effects of aging, malnutrition, illness (acute, chronic, and terminal
disease) on nutritional status and nutrient needs are stressed. Effective nutrition
assessment, counseling, as well as monitoring approaches are discussed.
Strategies for delivering comprehensive food and nutrition services for older adults
across a myriad of settings are explored. Ethical, cultural, societal issues concerning
nutrition and aging are presented using case-based learning methods.
NUTR 6440 Nutrition Assessment of the Older Adult
This course represents an advanced study of nutrition assessment in the older adult,
incorporating all major components of nutrition assessment (i.e., anthropometrics,
biochemical indices, clinical symptomatology, dietary intake, and behavioral/socioeconomic
factors), with special emphasis on physical assessment. The course evaluates
-13-

assessment techniques as appropriate for the physiologic, pathophysiologic, and functional
status of older adults, while introducing the physical and diagnostic assessment
of health status in the older adult; such as measurement of body composition, vital
signs, hydration status, breath and heart sounds, intra- and extra-oral assessment,
dysphagia screening, and the clinical assessment of nutritional status. All elements of
the nutrition care process are explored; nutrition screening/assessment, nutrition
diagnoses, nutrition intervention, and monitoring/evaluation. Students demonstrate
acquisition of knowledge through the use of patient case scenarios.
NUTR 6480 Applied Clinical Research (4 credits; includes 2 1/2 day in-person workshop).
This course provides an overview of clinical research methods, with an emphasis
on methods used in nutrition research. The fundamentals of research design, sampling
and measurement of study variables; data collection, analysis and computer
techniques; qualitative and quantitative research strategies; survey research and statistics,
along with development of the research proposal are included in this course.
NUTR 6500 Cultural Issues Influencing Health
The impact of cultural diversity and the influences of culture and ethnicity on health
practices, diet and feeding issues, medication, education and counseling, economics,
language and the home environment are explored. The unique needs of these populations
are covered in discussions of psychological and social dynamics of care. Health
professionals with known expertise in cultural diversity along with practitioners
working with specific cultural groups present class sessions.
NUTR 6505 Ethical Issues in Health Care Practice
This course is directed at the role of the health professional in the decision making
process of ethical resolutions of patient/client nutrition and health care problems and
interdisciplinary collegial conflicts. Skill development in moral critical-analysis is
emphasized. U.S. and international bioethics and analysis of selected cases on malpractice,
scientific experimentation and publication abuses, funding fraud, and
euthanasia are discussed. The multicultural diversity of health-care values and beliefs
are explored as variables that add dimension to an in-depth understanding of personal
health care decisions.
NUTR 6510 Current Issues in Nutrition Health Care
Seminar-based course exploring select current issues facing nutrition and dietetics
practice. Topics include health care reform, managed care, multicompetency in health
practice, alternative health care models and economics of health care in urban, suburban
and rural settings. Contemporary and forward thinking approaches to ethical
issues facing nutrition practice are covered.
NUTR 6601 Advanced Clinical Nutrition
Advanced study of the principles of nutrition in health and disease. The interrelationships
of nutrition with biochemical, physiological and anatomical changes associated
with acute, chronic, and terminal illness, surgery, and trauma are explored.
-14-

Students participate in the formulation of medical nutrition therapy plans using the
Nutrition Care Process framework by determining nutrition diagnoses,
macro/micronutrient and fluid/electrolyte needs, routes of feeding, and implementation
plans. Clinical cases are used to address metabolic, nutrition status and patient
applications. Topics include: diabetes, nutrition support, surgery and critical care,
burns, AIDS, immunology, cancer, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, liver and renal diseases.
NUTR 6609 Subspecialty Clinical Practice
This course provides students with a specialty practice experience in one or more
practice settings. Examples include clinical rotations in: wellness, trauma and critical
care, AIDS, cancer, geriatrics, pediatrics, women’s health, diabetes, weight management,
and complementary and alternative medicine. The supervised practice experiences
provide opportunities for students to integrate knowledge and research findings
in a practice setting; to develop skill in clinical, management, education or research
applications, and to interface with other health care professionals. Experiences are
individualized for the students based on identified goals and needs. Other experiences
include working with development of continuing education programming, serving as
a teaching assistant or web-master assistant using various media.
NUTR 6820 Nutritional Genomics for Practitioners
This course is an introduction to nutritional genomics for the nutrition professional,
with emphasis on the potential clinical practice applications. The course provides the
foundation in genetics/genomics and explores the role of nutritional genomics in the
prevention and treatment of several chronic diseases. Applications from food science
to policy development are addressed. Students and faculty will explore these issues in
a seminar format. An evidence-based approach of select issues is used. In the latter
part of the semester, students explore clinical practice issues through topic reviews and
review of current research in related areas.
NUTR 7009 Clinical Practice Residency (DCN students only)
The Clinical Practice Residency is a 350-hour full (10 weeks) or part time (20 weeks)
in-depth advanced practice experience. The residency is designed individually based
on the student’s interests and goals and geographical resources. Online seminars
enhance the experience. Topics for seminar include: the scope of practice for the profession,
evidence based practice in clinical nutrition, advanced physical assessment
skills, reimbursement for nutrition services, negotiation skills, grantsmanship in practice,
industry collaboration, ethics, and clinical mentoring.
NUTR 7110 Current Issues in Nutrition
Through an evidence-based seminar course, the faculty and students will explore the
emerging trends and issues in nutrition and dietetics. Topics may include technology,
food microbiology and safety, world hunger, and new food products.
-15-

NUTR 7210 Human Metabolism and Body Composition
This course is an advanced study of macronutrient metabolism in health and disease
and their impact on nutritional well being. Techniques to measure and evaluate body
composition (at the clinical, cellular, and tissue levels) are covered with an emphasis
on changes throughout the lifespan and in disease status.
NUTR 7310 Advanced Technological Applications in Dietetics
This course explores new applications of technology to dietetics practice, education
and research. Students use computer based and other technologies to design educational
materials for the public and professionals, explore research applications and
day-to-day practice.
NUTR 7320 Advanced Clinical Nutrition Seminar
This course focuses on prevention and treatment of select systemic and chronic diseases
and conditions in the U.S. along with current nutrition issues impacting
advanced clinical dietetics practice. An in-depth examination of the topics and related
research will be examined using an evidence-based approach. Sessions address epidemiological
issues, prevention and treatment to minimize the progression of obesity,
cancer, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and diabetes. Current issues including
nutrition diagnostic coding, genetics, and disordered eating will also be addressed.
Recognized experts share practice and research issues with students. Students and faculty
explore these issues in a seminar format. An evidence-based approach to select
issues is used. In the latter part of the semester, students explore clinical practice
issues through case presentations and topic reviews. A weekly review of current literature
in related areas is included.
NUTR 7481 Clinical Nutrition Research Methods (DCN students only)
This course provides an in-depth exploration of nutrition research methodologies
(with an emphasis on methods used in clinical nutrition research). Research design,
sampling and measurement of study variables related to outcomes research data collection,
analysis and computer techniques; evidence analysis and risk adjustment is
covered. Qualitative approaches as well as survey research strategies are explored in
the examination of the various types of outcomes measured: e.g., clinical, patient, or
economic. The final products are a doctoral research proposal and approved
Institutional Review Board (IRB) application.
NUTR 7482 Clinical Research Seminar (DCN students only)
The focus of this doctoral level research seminar will be on the conduct and completion
of the outcomes research (OR) study proposed in NUTR 7481. Steps in research
process covered by this course include data preparation, collection, analysis, and
interpretation, as well as the presentation of the OR project. The final project
includes an oral defense of the OR study, and a written manuscript for publication
and presentation.
-16-

NUTR 7510 Nutrition and Pharmacology
This course focuses on the clinical application of pharmacology in the management
of patients, including frequently prescribed drugs in the health care practice. The
basic principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, along with pertinent
physiology and information on dosing schedules, therapeutic effects, and adverse
reactions are presented. The course content provides web-based discussions, journal
review assignments, and case studies/discussion. Prerequisites: Advanced Clinical
Nutrition (NUTR 6601) or approval of advisor and course director.
NUTR 7512 Nutrition and Behavior Management
This course integrates behavioral health issues, cultural considerations, and nutrition
counseling. Topics include counseling issues for individuals with eating disorders,
obesity, substance abuse and mental health. Approaches to counseling with critiques
are included. The impact of ethnicity, gender, and age are explored.
PCAR 7115 Complementary and Alternative Medicine Seminar
This multidisciplinary seminar provides students with a working knowledge about
complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and clinical applications for
patient/client care and research. Federal regulations, cultural beliefs, scientific research
and perceived benefits and risks are explored.
PCAR 7410 Women’s Health
This seminar focuses on the unique health concerns of women in prevention and management
of diseases including heart disease, osteoporosis and cancer along with
health promotion throughout the stages of life. Interdisciplinary health professionals
lead the seminar.
-17-

ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
Application Materials and Information:
Applications are available at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/. For more information contact:
Office of Enrollment Services
65 Bergen Street, P.O. Box 1709, Newark, NJ 07101
Phone: 973-972-5454/Fax: 973-972-7463
E-mail: shrpadm@umdnj.edu
Non-Matriculated Status:
Practitioners who are not ready to make the commitment to a graduate program, or
who wish to advance knowledge and skills, may take up to 12 credits on a nonmatriculated
basis. Non-matriculated students who wish to apply to any of the programs
can do so and these credits are applicable to the program.
Applications for Non-Matriculated Students:
Students may register as non-matriculated by completing the Non-Matriculated
Registration Course Form (available at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/
pdf/non_matric.pdf) and mailing/faxing with payment (check/money order payable to
UMDNJ - CACE or MC/VISA) to:
UMDNJ Center for Advanced and Continuing Education
30 Bergen Street, ADM 710, Newark, NJ 07101
Phone: 973-972-6482/Fax: 973-972-7128
Continuing Professional Education Option:
In conjunction with the UMDNJ Center for Advanced and Continuing Education, the
GPCN is a Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Accredited Provider (#UN001)
with the Commission on Dietetic Registration. For CPE credit, participants can register
with the Center for Advanced and Continuing Education. Each course hour is
equivalent to one CPE credit hour.
Financial Aid:
For information about Financial Aid:
Student Financial Aid Office
Administration Complex 1208
P.O. Box 1709
Newark, NJ 07101-1709
(973) 972-4376
http://www.umdnj.edu/studentfinancialaid
-18-

FULL TIME PROGRAM FACULTY
For additional information on the Graduate Programs in Clinical Nutrition visit
internet address: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/nutr or contact:
Riva Touger-Decker, Ph.D., RD, FADA
Professor and Program Director,
UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions
Department of Nutritional Sciences
65 Bergen Street, Room 157, P.O. Box 1709
Newark, NJ 07101-1709
Phone: 973-972-6596/Fax: 973-972-7403
E-mail address: decker@umdnj.edu
Diane Rigassio Radler Ph.D., RD
Assistant Professor,
UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions
Department of Nutritional Sciences
65 Bergen Street, Room 157, P.O. Box 1709
Newark, NJ 07101-1709
Phone: 973-972-6731/Fax: 973-972-7403
E-mail address: diane.radler@umdnj.edu
Laura Byham-Gray, Ph.D., RD
Associate Professor,
UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions
Department of Nutritional Sciences
40 East Laurel Road, Primary Care Center, Suite #228
Stratford, NJ 08084
Phone: 856-566-6451/Fax: 856-566-6458
Email address: laura.byham-gray@umdnj.edu
Julie O’Sullivan Maillet, Ph.D., RD, FADA
Professor
Department of Nutritional Sciences
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Research, SHRP
UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions
65 Bergen Street, Room 129, Newark, NJ 07107
Rebecca Brody, MS, RD, CNSD
Pre-Doctoral Fellow
UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions
Department of Nutritional Sciences
65 Bergen Street, Room 157, P.O. Box 1709
Newark, NJ, 07101-1709
Email address: brodyra@umdnj.edu
For additional information on the Ph.D. in Health Sciences visit Internet address
http://www.umdnj.edu/idsweb/documents/phd_flyer.pdf
Applications to the Ph.D. program are accepted only once per year (March 1)
-19-

SHRP Mission Statement
The mission of the UMDNJ-School of Health Related Professions is to educate socially
responsible health professionals who will function competently, creatively and collaboratively
in a dynamic health care environment.
In fulfillment of this mission, the School seeks to:
• Provide students with diverse practical experiences through a variety of affiliations
• Promote and provide support for continued professional development
• Establish and sustain multiple academic partnerships at all levels of the educational
spectrum
• Pursue scholarship and conduct research
• Provide educational, consultative, health care and other services
• Provide service to our communities and the entire state.
UMDNJ Mission Statement
The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), the state’s university
of the health sciences, is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in
• The undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate and continuing education of health
professionals and scientists,
• The conduct of biomedical, psychosocial, clinical and public health research;
• Health promotion, disease prevention, and the delivery of health care, and
• Service to our communities and the entire state
Providing educational, research and service programs at campuses in Camden, New
Brunswick/Piscataway, Newark, Scotch Plains and Stratford, in communities
throughout the state, and nationally and internationally through advanced communication
and information technologies UMDNJ seeks to meet the needs of our diverse
constituencies and improve the health and quality of life of citizens of New Jersey and
society at large.
UMDNJ is the state’s only academic health science center. UMDNJ is composed of
eight academic units, with multiple affiliations, including the state’s two trauma centers.
SHRP, the largest of UMDNJ’s seven schools has programs on the Newark,
Scotch Plains, Piscataway, and Stratford campuses.
-20-

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES