The Keith & Associates Distance Dietetic Internship (KADDI) is structured to provide a comprehensive supervised practice experience across all required domains, ensuring interns meet ACEND competencies and are fully prepared to sit for the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam.

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Each intern follows a guided series of rotations, with extensive support, orientation, and pre-assigned coursework that enhances their learning and clinical readiness.

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Pre-Orientation: KADDI Boot Camp (76 Hours)

Before beginning rotations, interns complete a rigorous 76-hour self-directed module series covering foundational topics such as:

• Public policy in nutrition

• Sustainability and productivity

• Renal nutrition education

• Evidence-based case studies

These assignments prepare interns to engage in critical thinking and meet CRDNs early in the program.

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Orientation: "Livin’ on Tulsa Time" (4 Days)

A dynamic four-day training designed to equip interns with essential professional, clinical, and communication skills.

• Sunday: Optional ranch-to-table tour with Oklahoma Beef Council and animal science professionals

• Monday: HIPAA, SBAR & AIDET training, diversity & inclusion, professional development

• Tuesday: Clinical labs—NG tube placement, enteral feeding pumps, diabetes medication administration, blood pressure checks, and nutrition supplement sampling (Nestlé, Abbott, Real Foods)

• Wednesday: Business & communication workshop with private practice RDNs

• Thursday: RDN exam preparation kickoff and alumni presentations

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Clinical Rotation – 392 Hours

Interns complete clinical rotations in settings such as hospitals, long-term care, or specialty practices. Conditions covered:

• Malnutrition, Cancer, Obesity

• Endocrine, Cardiovascular, GI, and Renal diseases

Assignments include:

• Self and preceptor evaluations

• A research-based topic report on a current or emerging clinical issue

• 40 hours of preparatory coursework prior to rotation start

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Foodservice Rotation – 224 Hours

Interns gain experience across all stages of the foodservice cycle:

• Procurement, receiving, storage, prep, and service

• Assignments include employee training and menu development

• Focus on operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability

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Business & Entrepreneurship Rotation – 160 Hours

Designed to foster management and leadership skills applicable across dietetics. Interns may:

• Collaborate with RDNs and entrepreneurs

• Create social media content

• Develop business proposals or projects

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Community Rotation – 128 Hours

Interns apply the nutrition care process with diverse populations:

• Adults, infants, children, pregnant/lactating individuals

• Assignments include educational content creation and counseling

• Emphasis on cultural competence and lifecycle nutrition

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Graduation & Verification Statement Requirements

To successfully graduate and receive a verification statement, interns must:

• Complete 1,000+ total hours, including at least 700 supervised on-site hours

• Finish a graduate degree (if required) before completion

• Submit all evaluations and assignments

• Demonstrate competency in all ACEND CRDNs

• Pass the KADDI Final Exam or attempt it up to three times

• Fulfill all financial obligations

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Graduation timelines:

• Internship-Only: 8.5 months (FT) or 14 months (PT)

• MSDI (Alabama): 18 months

• MSDI (UCA): 18–24 months depending on track

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Rotation Calendar Tools

Downloadable templates are available for both full-time and part-time interns to assist with scheduling and planning supervised practice hours. These help interns balance clinical, community, and foodservice experiences with professional growth.