Two New Online Programs Launched

Alyssa Walker

Document Type

News Article

Publication Date

12-4-2015

Campus Unit

College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines

Abstract

The College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines offered two new online programs this fall; the Masters in Nutrition with Specialization in Nutrition Education and Counseling, and the Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW). Both programs offer educational opportunities to students who may not be able to receive their degree on campus.

The Nutrition & Dietetics program’s online Masters of Science in Nutrition with specialization in Nutrition Education and Counseling program admitted its first cohort of students this fall. Dr. Desiree Tande serves as the Director of the MS program and she along with her Nutrition and Dietetics colleagues were instrumental to its establishment.

“Our new Master’s program offers working professionals who otherwise would have limited access to graduate education in nutrition, the opportunity to pursue and advanced degree; we also now offer the opportunity for current undergraduate students to continue their education right here at the University of North Dakota,” said Tande.

The overall goal of the graduate program is to enhance the nutrition profession through the development of advanced-level professionals who are able to integrate research, teaching, practice and service to identify nutrition problems and develop solutions, especially for rural, undeserved areas. The program is designed to foster student learning through clear and accurate communication, cultural competency, critical thinking, assessment, and ethical leadership.

The Social Work department also established an online Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program this fall which has opened the door to many students who wish to finish their BSSW degree in rural ND communities and tribal communities.

BSSW Program Director, Dr. Melanie Sage stresses the impact of an online BSSW program for North Dakota, “the new distance BSSW program at UND opens social work education across North Dakota and to neighboring states. Designed with working students in mind, the first cohort is comprised mainly of students already employed in social service agencies, in tribal areas, and in oil-impacted communities where workforce recruitment is difficult. Students attend the classes live via video, which allows us to really get to know them. We look forward to building partnerships with tribal colleges and child welfare agencies in the coming years to help address workforce needs in those areas.”

The BSSW program is ideal for individuals with an associate’s degree, a bachelors in another field, or credits toward a degree. The BSSW program provides students with knowledge, values and skills for generalist social work, with an emphasis on culturally responsive practice in rural communities. The program prepares students for service and leadership within the community and the social work profession, as well as continued professional development opportunities.

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