Introduction
Clinical nutrition is a specialized field that applies current evidence to assess and meet the nutritional needs of individuals and communities, with a focus on promoting health as well as preventing and managing disease.
Our department offers two tracks:
- Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition – Dietetic Integrated (MSDI)
The MSDI track educates future dietitians. More information about the track is included below. - Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MS)
The MS track is designed for dietitians and professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of nutrition. Learn more about the MS track here.
Not sure whether the MSDI or MS track is right for you? Learn more to find the best fit for your goals.
Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition - Dietetic Integrated (MSDI) Track
Our MSDI track educates future dietitians through a comprehensive curriculum that integrates nutrition, metabolism, and research. The combination of supervised experiential learning and critical evaluation of research trains our graduates to design evidence-based interventions that that help individuals prevent disease, manage health conditions, and achieve wellness.
Any student can apply. You can apply to our MSDI program if you have an ACEND-accredited DPD verification statement or if you hold a bachelor’s degree and have completed the required prerequisite courses.
After completing all required coursework and minimum 1,000 supervised experiential learning hours, you are eligible to take the National Examination for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN).
Our approach to clinical dietitian education and MSDI training
MSDI Track: Integrating Knowledge and Experience
The MSDI track integrates nutrition coursework with supervised experiential learning each semester, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge directly in real-world setting. Courses in food systems management, community nutrition, and clinical nutrition integrate evidence-based learning with hands-on experience across the Chicagoland area, exposing students to diverse patient populations, cultural perspectives, and healthcare settings—from large academic medical centers to community clinics and innovative public health programs.
In addition, students gain foundational knowledge in metabolism, exploring how nutrients interact with the genome and environment to influence physiological processes. Students complete a robust series of research courses to strengthen their ability to critically evaluate nutrition research, which is reinforced throughout the entire curriculum.
We accept 20 students per cohort, creating an environment that fosters close connections, personalized mentoring, and the building of a strong professional network.
Tuition for Registered Dietitian Master’s Program (MSDI Track)
At Rush University, we know your education is a big investment. We want to make sure you have all the information to be able to make the best financial decisions for you and your family.
Tuition for the Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Nutrition - Dietetic Integrated Track program is $1,016 per credit.
Interested in becoming a registered dietitian? Learn about the coursework, supervised practice and credentialing exam required to take that next step in your career.
What brings students to Rush for a master's in Clinical Nutrition?
“I put all my bets on Rush because of its reputation, curriculum and research. But their commitment to diversity and inclusion was also something that made me really happy.”
– Victoria, first-year student
"I knew I had to watch what I ate, but there wasn’t anybody that I could really talk to about losing weight or just showing me how to eat healthy.”
– Eric, first-year student
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
College of Health Sciences
Mark McInerney, PhD
Mark_C_McInerney@rush.edu
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