If you didn't find the question you were looking for, please contact us.
Is Penn State World Campus part of the real Penn State?
Simply put, yes. When you successfully complete the associate in science in dietetics with a Dietetic Technician Emphasis degree, you will receive a diploma stating that you have earned a bachelor's degree, not an online bachelor's degree. Neither the diploma nor the transcript will differentiate the mode (online or otherwise) in which the courses or degree was completed.
(Back to Top)
Is Penn State World Campus accredited?
Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and has an outstanding reputation as a research and teaching university. Our courses are also accepted by most other colleges and universities in fulfillment of their requirements.
(Back to Top)
Is financial aid available to World Campus students?
Yes. Detailed information about financial aid, scholarships, and other forms of aid can be found on our paying for your education page.
(Back to Top)
How do I transfer credits from another university to Penn State?
First and foremost, if you are planning to transfer college credits to Penn State, the college must be accredited by one of the following accrediting agencies:
| Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools |
Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges |
| New England Association of Schools and Colleges |
Southern Association of Schools and Colleges |
| North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
Specific information can be found on the transfer students section. Also, visit the alternative ways to earn credit page for additional information.
(Back to Top)
Does Penn State accept professional experience for credit?
Penn State only accepts certain types of professional experience for credit toward fulfilling degree requirements—a process called Credit by Portfolio Evaluation, which is typically restricted to students with particular types of formal professional training, such as nurses or police officers. Some aspects of military training will also result in transfer credits if officially documented. Other types of professional training are considered on a case-by-case basis, but the review is costly and rarely results in credit conferral. Contact one of our academic advisers for further information.
(Back to Top)
How do I apply to a World Campus program?
Application instructions and admissions requirements vary by program. Visit the Web page for your World Campus program of interest and click on the "Apply Now" button for specific instructions.
(Back to Top)
How do I get my textbooks and other course materials?
Software for World Campus courses can be purchased at academic prices through education software vendor JourneyEd.com.
All textbooks for World Campus courses should be ordered through our contracted partner, MBS Direct. Should your World Campus course be cancelled, MBS Direct will refund the cost according to their return policy. If you purchase materials from a provider other than MBS Direct, you are responsible for verifying that the edition of the text is exactly the one required for your course; you are also responsible for knowing that vendor's return policy in the event your course is cancelled. World Campus is not responsible for refunding the cost of your course materials (purchased through MBS Direct or any other vendor) under any circumstances.
(Back to Top)
How do I know if distance learning is right for me?
Learning through distance education requires a significant amount of self-motivation and commitment. Having the flexibility to study at the time that is most convenient for you means you won't have a firm schedule like you would in many on-campus courses. The associate degree program in dietetic food systems management (Dietetic Technician Emphasis) is designed for motivated, self-disciplined students who have work experience in health care food and nutrition services. Successful distance education students, who study 6 to 10 hours a week to complete 4 to 5 courses a year, can complete the associate degree in 5 years. Because most of our students are juggling numerous life commitments at the same time they're taking courses, we find it's essential that you find a balance between your life responsibilities and course work to remain motivated.
Remember—we're here for you! With our amazing team of academic advisers, technical support experts, customer service representatives, and Penn State instructors, we'll help you get where you want to go—successfully—through distance education.
(Back to Top)
If I'm not currently working in a health care facility, can I still qualify for the degree program?
Yes. If you are not currently employed in a health care facility, please contact us by e-mail or phone (800-252-3592, ext. 5) to discuss your options.
(Back to Top)
Who can answer my specific questions about the program or application process?
Ms. Reese, dietetic programs staff assistant, or one of the faculty advisers will be happy to answer any questions you have. E-mail or call the dietetics program advising office at 800-252-3592.
(Back to Top)
If I'm not currently working in a school food service or other child nutrition program, can I still qualify for the degree program?
Yes. If you are not currently employed in school food service or child nutrition, please contact us by e-mail or phone (800-252-3592) to discuss your options.
(Back to Top)
