PRIOR ASSESSED LEARNING PROGRAM (PAL)

The Cox College Dietetic Internship (DI) participates in a Prior Assessed Learning (PAL) program. This program is designed to grant internship credit in specific areas of the internship based on the qualified applicant’s previous experiences.

While you may have plenty of work experiences, proof or demonstration of what has been learned or achieved must be shown. These experiences must meet the competencies required for an entry-level dietetic practitioner as outlined by the ADA. PAL credit is not given simply for experience.

PAL application will be made in a portfolio. The applicant is expected to complete all segments of the application. The application is to be completed in paper form. Samples of projects, reports, presentation and professional practice that demonstrate advanced knowledge and skill in the area of dietetics for which the assessment is requested is expected.

The DI Director and appointed designees (PAL reviewers) will review all submitted forms and determine if any PAL credit will be given. The PAL reviewers reserve the right to contact you for additional documentation and clarification as deemed appropriate. If you receive credit, you will not participate in the internship for up to 4 weeks of Foodservice Systems, up to 3 weeks of Community or up to 4 weeks of Nutrition Therapy.

Student Guidelines for Assessment of Prior Learning

	Submit PAL application and documentation to the Cox College Dietetic Internship office by May 15 prior to the Fall start of the internship.
	Identify dietetic internship rotations and courses for which assessment of prior learning is requested.
	Provide documentation in the form of a portfolio which supports:
		analysis of actual learning
		actual learning with the competencies identified by the American Dietetic Association necessary to be exhibited by entry-level dietitians

	Understand the credit is granted only for learning, not for experience.
	Submit current resume.
	Submit completed forms to support PAL request.

Contact the Dietetic Internship Director for more information on applying for PAL at 417/269-3040 or at kwillia@coxcollege.edu.