We are what we eat? Maybe not. But we all know that our health and well-being are impacted by our diet. Dieticians and nutritionists work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics and private practices creating personalized nutrition programs to create, restore or support the health of patients and clients. You can earn a certificate or an associate degree in nutrition and dietetics to become a technician in the field. With the associate degree, you are eligible to take the national registration exam for dietetic technicians. Gain the knowledge you need to put others on a path to good health through a sound diet and good nutrition. Read on to explore your options at OCC.
A sampling of courses for these careers
- Nutrition
- Quantity Foods Preparation
- Sanitation and Safety
- Anatomy-Physiology
- Introduction to Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Menu Planning and Purchasing
Did you know?
Employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all
occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Complete one of our certificate programs, and you'll be well-prepared to enter a career in nutrition and dietetics. Or earn an associate degree for even greater advancement opportunities.
- IN LESS THAN 2 YEARS EARN: CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT
- OR EARN YOUR ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN UNDER 4 YEARS
View all program details in course catalog
Dietetic Service Supervisor / Certified Dietary Manager
Learn to plan and supervise employees in Food and Nutrition services at healthcare facilities with responsibilities including assisting the dietitian with patient care activities, coordinating work of food production personnel, and ensuring safe and nutritionally adequate food for patients and residents. Prepare for an entry-level position as a Food and Nutrition manager to meet the needs of healthcare facilities and other employers.
Nutrition and Fitness Education
Prepare for an entry-level position as a nutrition and fitness professional in the health and fitness industry, including at weight loss clinics, sports medicine clinics, health clubs and gyms, corporate fitness and wellness centers, fitness and nutrition programs in schools and at community agencies.
Nutrition Education
Prepare for an entry-level position as a nutrition education assistant at a weight-control clinic, health and exercise spa, gymnasium, community agency concerned with nutrition education or a manufacturer and distributor of nutrition-related products.
View all program details in course catalog
Nutrition and Dietetics Technician
Prepare for an entry-level position as a nutrition and dietetics technician at a hospital, nursing home, retirement center, public health agency, community health program, food company, or a contract food-management company. After completing this program, you will be prepared to sit for the national Registration Exam for Dietetic Technicians, administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, in order to become credentialed as a Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR).
Nutrition and Dietetics - AS-T
Earn an Associate in Science in Nutrition and Dietetics for Transfer Degree to be well-positioned to complete a bachelor’s degree in a similar major within the California State University system. Students who complete the Nutrition and Dietetics AS-T degree are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major.
Nutrition Education
Complete the Nutrition Education Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements to earn an associate degree. Prepare for an entry-level position as a nutrition education assistant at a weight-control clinic, health and exercise spa, gymnasium, community agency concerned with nutrition education or a manufacturer and distributor of nutrition-related products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Other Programs That Might Interest You
CULINARY ARTS
Complete one of our certificate programs to launch a career in culinary arts or build on your skills
CULINOLOGY AND FOOD SCIENCE
Train to become a food science assistant in food research and advance in the field with an associate degree
FITNESS SPECIALIST
Complete our certificate program to start your career in leading others to fitness
Learn MoreDid you know?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.
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Katie Ottoson, M.S.
Counselor, CTE and
Career Services
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Counselor, Allied
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