The AFN program incorporates supervised experiential learning hours in professional work sites. This will require that students purchase slip-resistant, closed-toe shoes and business casual attire for attendance at the professional sites. Slip-resistant shoes and appropriate food service attire are required for certain rotations. Professional clothing and closed-toe dress shoes are the accepted attire for clinical and community rotations, unless scrubs and tennis shoes are facility approved.
These uniform requirements can be estimated at approximately $250 over the length of the program.

All GVSU health profession students are required to comply with certain health testing prior to participation in practicum courses. Items such as background checks, immunizations, titers, a complete physical, TB skin tests, drug tests, personal health insurance, and individual malpractice liability insurance are requirements for participants in the program.

These numbers are based on what the GVSU Health Center and affiliated services charge and are an estimate. Other health facilities and providers could charge differently:

• $49.00 Physical
• $30.00 TB test (two $15 tests required for two-step testing)
• $40.00 Titer
• $55.00 Flu shot (trivalent or quadrivalent)
• $  0.00 Covid vaccine/booster
• $63.00 Fingerprinting (through the GRCC police department)
• $49.00 Drug screening
• $37.75 Criminal background check (through CertifiedBackground.com)
• $65.00 CPR Certification
• $25.00 Viewpoint account (health compliance tracking)

Student Insurance/Travel Liability and Requirements:

GVSU provides General and Professional Liability insurance for healthcare-related services provided by students acting in the capacity as a student, in conjunction with educational or academic activities pursuant to individual course curricula.

Students may purchase additional liability insurance through the AND (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics) if desired. Students should be aware that liability and insurance requirements may vary by individual Field Education sites.

GVSU does not provide healthcare insurance to students. Students are strongly encouraged to maintain their own health coverage at all times, but especially during Field Education. Please note that the student’s individual medical insurance plan is responsible for all medical-related expenses incurred during the field placement. The University and the College of Health Professions assume no responsibility or liability for any injury or illness that may be sustained during field placement. If a student does not have current health care coverage, you may want to visit the GVSU Health Hub's information on Student Health Insurance for information on coverage options. If you don’t find a product that fits your needs, we encourage you to speak to your own Insurance Agent or research those coverages that may be available elsewhere.

Some Field Education placements may require students to use their personally owned vehicle for transportation purposes. Some Field Education placements require students to have a valid driver’s license, indicate they can operate a motor vehicle without restriction, carry current auto insurance and agree to be compliant with the laws of the state of Michigan.

When at all possible, students are encouraged to use an Agency-owned vehicle while transporting clients, consumers, or agency personnel on behalf of the Agency. It may be the responsibility of the student to make those arrangements.

If a student is driving a personal automobile and is involved in an automobile accident while on field placement business, the student’s personal auto insurance will respond and the student’s personal limits for both liability and physical damage could be exhausted, depending on the severity of the claim. If a student elects to use a privately-owned vehicle as part of their field placement activities, the student should consult with their insurance carrier for a clear understanding of their coverage. The student is responsible for obtaining adequate insurance to cover their legal responsibility. It is advised that without such coverage, clients should not be transported in students’ cars.

Technology/Online Learning Supplies and Books Required:

A laptop computer with a camera, personal printer, scanner, and other school supplies (e.g., textbooks, notebooks, pens, paper, paper clips, etc.) are necessary for the successful completion of program expectations. In addition, internet access is required. Students are responsible for bearing the expense of these items and costs.

Financial aid estimates books and other supplies to cost approximately $390 per semester. Learn more about tuition and fees.