Admissions

Applicants who hold a previously completed master’s degree in nutrition or a closely related field must still meet all program admission requirements, including completion of prerequisite coursework.

In limited circumstances, applicants with a Program Director-approved nutrition-related master’s degree who meet prerequisite requirements and demonstrate prior competency attainment may complete the required supervised experiential learning (SEL) courses and remaining program requirements as a non-degree-seeking student, rather than pursuing a second master’s degree.

Prior Assessed Learning (PAL) evaluation may be used to assess achievement of competencies associated with didactic coursework in the Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (GPND). PAL does not apply to prerequisite coursework requirements for program admission. All applicants must complete the required prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of B (3.0) prior to beginning the program.

The Prior Assessed Learning (PAL) process allows faculty to evaluate whether previously completed coursework demonstrates achievement of selected didactic competencies. PAL does not replace prerequisite coursework, supervised experiential learning requirements, or other program completion requirements necessary for issuance of the Verification Statement.

Applications to the GPND and the Graduate School are separate processes. Students are generally encouraged to apply to the Graduate School after confirming acceptance to the GPND, though earlier application is permitted. Applicants should also refer to the ACEND Traffic Rules and the Code of Ethics. 

GPND - DICAS (Dietetic Inclusive Centralized Application System)

• Opens: August 5, 2026
• Deadline:
• Early Acceptance (Fall): October 1, 2026
• Standard Cycle (Spring): January 15, 2027
• Notification: 
• Early Acceptance (Fall): November 1, 2026
• Standard Cycle (Spring): March 1, 2027
• Decision Deadline: 
• Early Acceptance (Fall): November 10, 2026
• Standard Cycle (Spring): March 10, 2027
• Fee: 
• $50 first application submitted
• $25 for each additional application
• Application requirements:
• One to Two-page resume demonstrating relevant academic, professional, and volunteer experience
• Personal Statement (1,000 words maximum)
• The personal statement should demonstrate reflective thinking, professional insight, and readiness for graduate-level training. The statement should not repeat the resume. The strongest statements demonstrate growth over time, professional self-awareness, and clear alignment with program expectations. Applicants are expected to present a cohesive narrative addressing:
• Professional motivation and alignment with the TWU–Houston GPND
• Reflective learning experiences that shaped essential professional skills
• Interpersonal communication development
• Professional growth and self-awareness
• Short-term and long-term professional goals
• Other Notes:
• There is no formal interview process.
• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required.

TWU Graduate School

• Deadline: April 1
• Fee: $50
• Submit Transcripts to Office of Admissions 

Applications are reviewed by a Selection Committee composed of NFS faculty, preceptors, alumni, and current students. The program seeks applicants who demonstrate academic preparation, leadership potential, professional maturity, and readiness for graduate-level training.

The program admits a limited cohort each year to ensure adequate supervised experiential learning capacity, individualized faculty mentoring, and consistent evaluation of competency development. Cohort size is determined annually based on available supervised experiential learning capacity and faculty advising resources.

Applicants are evaluated holistically based on:

• 25% Grades
• 22% Leadership/Service/Work Experiences
• 22% Personal Statement and Supplemental Questions
• 22% References
• 9% Overall Impression

Applications will be reviewed and offers will be extended on a rolling basis in the order in which they are received. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to obtain admission and begin graduate school and scholarship applications with the University.

DICAS will be reopened after the January 10th deadline until July 15th for rolling applications until the class is filled. These applications are reviewed as they are received. Students applying later may not qualify for scholarships. 

Equal Opportunity Statement

Texas Woman’s University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, or disability.