The dietetic paraprofessional and the external degree. Report on work in progress.

The "University without Walls", i.e., the external degree earned by work off-campus, is a relatively new but increasingly important development in higher education. At Pennsylvania State University, such a program leading to an associate degree is being developed for the dietetic technician. Through correspondence study for credit and other avenues, dietetic paraprofessionals can prepare themselves for upgrading to supervisory roles calling for academic preparation. The need is particularly apparent in view of recently issued requirements that supervisory foodservice personnel in extended care facilities have 90 clock hours of instruction. The projected curriculum will permit the earning of credits by correspondence; through courses taught by multi-media; by transferring courses from other institutions; or by examination. Elements of the curriculum planning are detailed.