Nutrition & Dietetic Technician, AAS & Certificates
Embark on your journey to becoming a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician with Central Arizona College’s renowned online program. Proudly established and experienced, our Dietetic Technician Program has maintained accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition & Dietetics (ACEND) since 1978.
Join us from the comfort of your own home and access your dreams like never before!
Please note: Students residing in Colorado must be employed in a hospital or similar setting when applying to the program, in compliance with Colorado distance education requirements.
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Elevate your workforce and future-proof your team with Central Arizona College. We’re proud to partner with renowned healthcare institutions and food service providers, offering customized upskilling solutions that not only empower your employees but also pave the way for long-term, successful careers.
Program Information
Earn industry-recognized credentials:
Two certificates, an associate’s degree, and eligibility to sit for NDTR and CDM, CFPP national exams.
Vision:
The leading choice for accredited online nutrition education and career excellence.
Mission:
The Dietetic Technician Program at Central Arizona College serves as a
TRUE Learning community by empowering our students to succeed.
Teaching evidence-based nutrition education for pre-professional students.
Reaching students with a passion to help improve the health of others with nutrition.
Understanding the importance of high quality nutrition education and professional engagement.
Empowering our students to succeed in becoming competent entry-level Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians, Registered
The Dietetic Education Program at Central Arizona College offers the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Associate of Applied Science degree accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to take the Registration Examination from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. A passing score is required to become a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR).
The Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS degree emphasizes medical nutrition therapy, education and wellness, and food service management. It is designed to help students acquire the knowledge and skills to work in dietetics through didactic coursework and a minimum of 450 hours of supervised practical experience. NDTRs work independently or in collaboration with Registered Dietitians Nutritionists in a variety of employment settings, including health care, business and industry, community, public health, foodservice and research. NDTRs are trained in food and nutrition and are an integral part of healthcare and foodservice management teams.
All classes for the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Program AAS degree are offered online, except the Dietetic Technician Internship which must be completed in an approved facility. The Dietetic Education Program has implemented a formal application process to the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS Degree.
- Please note: Students residing in Colorado must be employed in a hospital or similar setting when applying to the program, in compliance with Colorado distance education requirements.
Degree Requirements
2025-2026
Nutrition & Dietetic Technician A.A.S. Degree
Total 65-69 credits
General Education Requirements (24-28) and certificate
The general education requirements indicated below by an asterisk (*) must be completed before applying for admission to the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Program. Students must have earned a grade of “C” or better. Completion of required Chemistry (CHM) course within last (5) five years. Refer to College Catalog for course descriptions and course pre-requisites. The Community Nutrition Worker Certificate must also be completed before the NDT program application deadline.
Written Communication (3)
ENG101 English Composition I (3) OR ENG121 Applied Technical Writing (3)
*Mathematics (4)
MAT151 College Algebra (4) or higher
*Physical and Biological Science (8-12)
Select one group that includes both biology and chemistry:
BIO160 Introduction to Human Anatomy/Physiology (4) and
CHM130 Fundamentals of Chemistry (4) or higher
OR
BIO201 Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4) and
BIO202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4) and
CHM130 Fundamentals of Chemistry (4) or higher
Oral Communication (3)
COM100 Fundamentals of Human Communication (3) or higher
Arts and Humanities (3)
Select courses numbered 100 or above in the following: ART, HMC, LIT, MHL, PHI, and THE. Students may also choose any course from the Arts and Humanities AGEC lists.
Social and Behavioral Science (3)
Select courses numbered 100 or above in the following: ABS, ECN, GEO, HIS, POS, PSY, and SOC. Students may also choose any course from the Social and Behavioral Sciences AGEC lists.
Recommended Proficiencies:
- High school diploma or GED.
- Completion of degree requirements within three (3) years of beginning the program.
Other Requirements:
- Community Nutrition Worker (CNW) Certificate must be completed with a cumulative GPA or 2.5 or higher.
- Completion of all course requirements within three (3) years of beginning the program.
- Meet all ACEND requirements.
- With assistance from NTR295 Dietetic Technician Professional Practice Internship faculty, students set up their own internship sites and preceptors.
Students must earn:
- a grade of C or better in all required courses for this AAS degree
- a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
- a minimum of 20 credits from CAC
- a minimum of 65 credits.
NTR Requirements for the 2025-2026 Nutrition and Dietetic Technician AAS Degree Program (NDTAAS)- (42 credits)
The following courses will be completed after students have been accepted into the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS Degree Program
Community Nutrition Worker Certificate Program (15 credits)
Students must complete the required courses for the Community Nutrition Worker Certificate prior to starting the NDTAAS program. The following nutrition courses are part of the Community Nutrition Worker Certificate Program:
NTR 123 Nutrition Through the Lifecycle (pre-req.: NTR200) (3)
NTR 127 Breastfeeding/Human Lactation (1)
NTR 134 Healthy Weight for Kids (1)
NTR 191 Nutrition Counseling & Skill Development (pre-req.: NTR200) (3)
NTR 200 Human Nutrition (3)
NTR 219 Community Nutrition (co-req. or pre-req.: NTR200) (3) Spring only
NTR 232a Food & Culture (1)
Community Nutrition Worker Certificate Completed
The following courses will be completed after students have been accepted into the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS Degree Program.
Course Requirements after acceptance into the NDTAAS Degree Program (26 credits)
NTR 150 Overview of Nutrition Professions (1)
NTR 163 Orientation to DT Program (pre-req.: Acceptance into Dietetic Technician Program) (1) Fall only
NTR 247 Weight Management Theory (pre-req.: NTR200) (1)
NTR 255 Nutrition Medical Terminology (pre-req.: NTR200) (1)
Nutrition & Health Promotion Certificate Completed
NTR 142 Applied Food Science (3) Fall only
NTR 222A Medical Nutrition Therapy I (pre-req.: NTR123) (4) Fall only
NTR 222B Medical Nutrition Therapy II (pre-req.: NTR222A) (3) Spring only
NTR 223 Food Service Management (3)
NTR 295 DT Professional Practice Internship (3)
NTR 296 Dietetic Technician Internship (6) OR NTR 296A Dietetic Technician Food Service Management Internship (2) and NTR 296B Dietetic Technician Education & Clinical Internship (4)
Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Associate of Applied Science Degree Completed
Estimated Program Costs
| ESTIMATED COST of NDT Program (2024-2025 & 2025-2026 Tuition and Fees) |
AZ Resident
$75/credit |
Out of State Resident
$150/credit |
| Tuition (66 credits)
(Total tuition does not reflect if a student has transfer credits or if the student lives in a WUE state AK, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NV, NM, ND, OR, SD, UT, WA, and WY. Note: Students must contact the Registrar’s Office to be charged the WUE tuition rate.) Technology Fee |
$4,950 $100 |
$9,900 $100 |
| Internship Fee |
$200 |
$200 |
| Textbooks (Estimated) |
$1,500 |
$1,500 |
| Malpractice Insurance |
$25 |
$25 |
| Background check, drug screening and immunizations. Additional physician fees are not included (which will vary by provider) Other fees may be required by internship facilities. |
~$127 |
~$127 |
| Uniform/Lab Coat and Shoes |
varies |
varies |
| Health and Other Requirement Costs |
varies |
varies |
| Transportation |
varies |
varies |
| Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics membership (student membership $58.00 per year) |
$116 |
$116 |
| Conference Workshop Fees (optional but recommended) |
optional |
optional |
| NDTR Examination Fee |
$140 |
$140 |
| ESTIMATE TOTAL |
$7,408 |
$12,358 |
W.U.E.
Western Undergraduate Education Program (W.U.E.) allows full-time students (minimum 12 credits per semester) from the following western states who are seeking degrees or certificates to pay 150 percent resident tuition, rather than out-of-state tuition. Central Arizona College participates in the program along with other colleges and universities in AK, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NV, NM, ND, OR, SD, UT, WA and WY. Note: Students must contact the Registrar’s Office to be charged the WUE tuition rate.
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Transfer Credits
Transferring Credits to CAC
Follow the instructions from Records and Registration.
To be successful in the program, chemistry and nutrition coursework may not be older than 5 years. It is the student’s responsibility to follow up on transfer credits.
Handbook and Policies & Procedures
Internship
The Purpose of the Internship
The purpose of the internship (supervised practice) is to provide students the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have learned throughout their course of study. The internship (supervised practice) is for educational purposes only and the intern/student is not to be used to replace employees. The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) requires completing an internship with a minimum of 450 hours of supervised practice; to ensure graduates will be competent entry-level nutrition and dietetic technicians, registered. ACEND is the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics accrediting agency for education programs preparing students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists and Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians, Registered.
Students are responsible for finding an internship preceptor and a facility (to be approved by CAC) to complete their internship in the United States or its territories, possessions (including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands) or military bases.
Dietetic Technician Professional Practice Internship (NTR295)
(1 Internship = 66 Hours – Supervised Practicum)
Competencies required for the Dietetic Technician A.A.S. specifically in the areas of ethics, scope of practice, professional development, public policy legislation and communication.
Additionally, students will work with the CAC instructor to complete paperwork needed to secure a facility and internship preceptor. An affiliation agreement between CAC and the facility where the student wants to complete their internship; must be completed during this class. Students will also need to complete and pass: background check, drug screening, immunizations, 2-Step TB skin test and any other requirements deemed necessary by their facility. Students will not be able to begin the Dietetic Technician internship (NTR296) if the facility’s and CAC’s provisions are not completed.
Dietetic Technician Internship (NTR 296)
During the Dietetic Technician Internship the Internship Preceptor supervises a minimum of 384 hours. The ACEND-required Dietetic Technician competencies are demonstrated as the intern completes projects supervised by the Internship Preceptor and CAC Internship Instructor. Competencies can be described as a common understanding of the essential skills and knowledge that are regarded as necessary to work as an entry-level Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered. The intent is that the individual should have the level of competence expected of someone prepared to begin a career as a dietetic technician. This includes:
- ·Scientific and Evidence Base of Practice: general understanding of scientific information and research related to the dietetic technician level of practice.
- ·Professional Practice Expectations: beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviors for the dietetic technician.
- ·Clinical and Customer Services: development and delivery of information, products and services to individuals, groups and populations at the dietetic technician level of practice.
- ·Practice Management and Use of Resources: strategic application of principles of management and systems in the provision of services to individuals and organizations.
- ·Support Knowledge: knowledge underlying the requirements specified above.
Internship Projects
Directions/Rubric Evaluation
Three projects requiring a minimum of 450 hours of practice supervised by an Internship Preceptor must be completed in one semester (16 weeks). Your internship requires a lot of time to be successful with on-site internship hours and other class assignments. Interns typically are on-site 3 days/24 hours per week. This does not include travel or homework time. Time management is critical to student success.
Click on the links below to view the three internship projects (Directions/Rubric Evaluation forms):
- ·Food Service and Management
- ·Education and Training
- ·Nutrition Care Process and Medical Nutrition Therapy
The internship preceptor will provide guidance, mentoring and will be assessing the intern’s competency level as they complete all of the projects. Both the internship instructor and the internship preceptor will evaluate the intern’s projects and related assignments (refer to Direction/Rubrics). If any competency is not met within the hours initially devoted to that project, the intern must continue to work on that competency until he or she can demonstrate competency at a minimum of entry level. In some cases, this may result in an intern’s devoting more hours to the supervised practice component of the internship. The projects associated with the competencies are specified as in the Directions/Rubric Evaluations forms.
It is mandatory that students join the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy) as a student member.
Members of the Academy are automatically a member of their state dietetic association. Each state has local chapters and it is highly recommended that you join your local chapter of the Academy. This allows students to network with dietetic professionals to increase the success of securing a facility (or facilities) to complete their internship.
Graduation & National Exams
Graduation Requirements
Students successfully completing the program requirements for the NDT program will have:
- ·Completed the itemized courses on the NDT curriculum degree map.
- ·Earned a grade of “C” or better in all required courses for the NDT AAS degree.
- ·Earned a minimum of 20 credits from CAC.
- ·Maintained a GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Applied for Graduation
Maximum time allowed for completion of program is 3 years for full-time. Time accrues from the date that the student formally begins the program.
Verification Statement
The Verification Statement is the method used by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics to ensure that academic and supervised practice requirements have been met to be eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
After the graduate’s name is submitted to CDR, the Dietetic Education Program Director will provide the dietetic technician graduate with the appropriate number of verification statements. It is the responsibility of the graduate to safeguard them until the time they are to be used in various application processes, e.g. employment applications or applying to an RDN program.
National Registration (NDTR Exam)
Upon successful completion of the NDTAAS degree, graduates are eligible to take the national Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians offered by the CDR, the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Additional Credentials through National Examinations
Graduates may obtain additional credentials through national examinations.
Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Food Protection Professional – CDM, CFPP
School Nutrition Specialist – SNS
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NDT Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
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- Is there an application process to be accepted in the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Program?
Yes, please click on the “Applicants Fall…” tab for information about the application process.
- Is the NDTAAS degree offered online? Do you offer Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS degree to out of state students?
All courses are offered online and are available to out of state students. Class Schedules & Registration; except the NTR296 Dietetic Technician Internship which is completed in an approved facility in the United States.
Please note: Students residing in Colorado must be employed in a hospital or similar setting when applying to the program, in compliance with Colorado distance education requirements.
- Where do I complete the general education courses?
Central Arizona College (CAC) offers general education courses online. If you are planning to enroll in general education courses at other colleges/universities, contact the diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu to ensure course transferability to CAC. You must include the name of the college/university, course name, description, and credits hours.
- What kind of job can I find with the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR) credential?
There are a variety of job opportunities available to those who complete the registration exam for Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians. We suggest that you visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at: https://www.eatrightpro.org/about-us/what-is-an-rdn-and-dtr/what-is-a-nutrition-and-dietetics-technician-registered
- What is the salary range for a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered?
Salaries are regionally based. For additional information about salaries refer to the following website: https://www.eatrightpro.org/about-us/what-is-an-rdn-and-dtr/what-is-a-nutrition-and-dietetics-technician-registered/becoming-a-nutrition-dietetics-technician-registered
- What is the difference between a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered (NDTR)?
Please access this link: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: https://www.eatrightpro.org/about-us/what-is-an-rdn-and-dtr/rdn-and-ndtr-overview
- I would like to take the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician (NDT) program first, but my goal is to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Would the NDT program transfer to a university?
This program is not designed to be an RDN transfer program at this time. We suggest you first consult a university that offers an ACEND accredited RDN program. You can access the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) website.
- Does the Central Arizona College NDTAAS degree transfer to any other Bachelor programs?
Arizona State University: Bachelor of Applied Science in Food and Nutrition Entrepreneurship
– Online and on-ground pre-dietetics track
– The degree map has been modified to be more transfer appropriate for NDT Students.
– All of the credits from the NDTAAS Degree transfer as an AAS Block to this BAS Degree leaving only upper division classes to be completed.
– It will lead NDT Students toward applying to a Graduate Program in Dietetics.
Click here for more information
University of Arizona: Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences
– Online and on-ground didactic program
– This program has a Dietetics Emphasis.
– Not all of the coursework for the NDTAAS Degree Program will transfer.
– This degree leads to students receiving a DPD Verification Statement (needed to move forward toward becoming an RDN).
– After completing this degree, students will need to complete an internship and a master’s degree (any type) before being eligible to sit for the RDN Credentialing Exam.
Click here for more information
-Many 2+2 programs not in nutrition at state universities (AZ)
- How long will it take to complete the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS degree?
Students MUST complete the program in 3 years.
Internships
- What is the purpose of a NDT Internship?
The purpose of the NTR296 NDT internship is to have the opportunity to apply all of the information you have learned in your coursework. The internship has been developed based on ACEND’s required competencies. Students who successfully complete the internship and all required coursework are eligible to take the national Registration Examination for Dietetic Technicians offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Please refer to the NDT Student Handbook – Program Details Tab.
- What are competencies?
Competencies can be described as a common understanding of the essential skills and knowledge that are regarded as necessary to work as a Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Registered. The intent is that the individual should be competent, at entry level, in the mix of skills that is required to best serve nutrition programs in a given setting. We have taken all of these required ACEND competencies and created projects around them. You and your RDN or NDTR internship preceptor work together to complete all of the projects. To ensure you meet the competencies within each project, your preceptor will grade your projects, if you don’t meet a competency you will work with your RDN until you do!
- Where and how do I complete my internship?
If you do not work in a health care, food service, or related facility, we suggest:
-Getting a job in a food or nutrition related profession.
-Contacting the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in your state.
-Network with local RDNs and NDTRs.
- How do I find a Nutrition and Registered Dietitian (RDN) Internship Preceptor?
When you have identified a facility where you might want to intern, make an appointment with the clinical nutrition manager to see if he or she is willing to assist you.
- My Internship Preceptor wants me to pay him/her?
We recommend that the student find another internship preceptor.
- After successfully completing the Internship, what is next?
Your grade will be posted. Once DEP office receives the forms provided to you in the Exit Packet, and after your degree is posted, your name will be submitted to Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The Exit Packet includes information to take your Registration Examination for Nutrition and Dietetic Technicians offered by CDR, the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics www.cdrnet.org.
- Do I get paid for the internship?
No. Please read the US Department of Labor – Fair Labor Standards Act-Internship Programs.
Credential Option- Bachelor’s Degree & DPD NDTR Credential
- What if I have a baccalaureate degree in nutrition from an ACEND accredited program and a verification statement from a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) program? Can I obtain the Nutrition and Dietetic Technician Credential?
The Commission on Dietetic Registration established a registration eligibility pathway (pathway III) for nutrition and dietetic technicians. Effective June 1, 2009, individuals who have completed both a baccalaureate degree and a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) will be able to take the registration examination for nutrition and dietetic technicians without meeting additional academic or supervised practice requirements. For more information, please contact your DPD Director and visit the Commission on Dietetic Registration website. - Did you receive a verification statement after graduating from your DPD program?
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- a. If you received a verification statement, then contact your DPD Director and ask him/her to reach out to CDR about the process for pathway III students (students who graduated from a DPD Program with a verification statement) to sit for the NDT exam. For more information, please visit the Commission on Dietetic Registration website.
- b. If you did not receive a verification statement, then reach out to your DPD Director and find out why you did not receive a verification statement.
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- Is there an application process to be accepted in the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Program?
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DEP Newsletter
Applicants Fall 2025
Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Applicants for Fall 2025
Applications are accepted once a year for Fall semester entry to the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician (NDT) Associate of Applied Science degree program. The NDT admission process is highly competitive. Students must meet the admission requirements for Central Arizona College and the NDT Program.
There will be a maximum of 25 students admitted to the NDT program annually.
Pre-requisites:
- General education requirements (CHM, BIO, MAT, ENG) must be completed before applying for admission to the program. Students must have earned a grade of “C” or better. Completion of required Chemistry (CHM) course within last (5) five years.
- Community Nutrition Worker (CNW) Certificate must be completed with a Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Application Dates/Deadline:
Accepting Applications for Fall 2025 starting February 1st, 2025- June 15th, 2025.
Application Packets will be accepted electronically via the link below from February 1st through June 15th for Fall semester entry. (Step 2-Steps to Apply to the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS Degree Program). Faxed or emailed applications will not be considered. Acceptance letters will be emailed on or before July 6th.
Steps to Apply for Admissions to the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician AAS Degree Program:
Step 1: Important: Gather the following information before opening the online CAC-NDT program application link.
Note: You only have 60 minutes to complete the application from the time you click on the NDT Application link below.
- Personal Information
- First and last name
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Personal email address
- CAC email address
- CAC Student ID Number
- Letter of Intent ready to upload explaining your interest in the field of dietetics and why you want to become a Nutrition & Dietetic Technician, Registered. Rubric for Letter of Intent.
- File types allowed: pdf, word, or image
- Read the NDT Student Handbook – Program Details Tab
- Colleges/Universities previously attended if applicable
- Name and Dates Attended (FROM year, TO year)
- Transcripts from Colleges/Universities previously attended. If uploading more than one document, upload them as one file.
- File types allowed: pdf, word, or image
- Current resume ready to upload. Note: If you do not have experience please research how to write a resume with no experience and utilize the CAC Learning Center and/or the CAC Career Center.
- File types allowed: pdf, word, or image
- List of Membership(s) in Professional Organizations (e.g. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics)
Read the Online Learning Equipment & Skills Requirements Checklist
Step 2: Click on the link below to apply to the CAC NDT program
Note: You only have 60 minutes to complete the application from the time you click on the NDT Application link below.
Step 3: Admission Status
Upon receipt of the application, an email confirmation will be sent to you. You will receive an acceptance letter if accepted to the NDT Program. Students who are not accepted will receive notification letters.
Other Information:
Health Declaration:
- It is essential that Nutrition & Dietetic Technician (NDT) Students be able to perform a number of physical activities in the clinical portion of the program. At a minimum, students may be required to stand or sit for several hours at a time and perform bending and lifting activities. Students who have a chronic illness or condition must maintain current treatment and be able to perform these duties.
- The clinical experience may place students under considerable mental and emotional stress as they undertake responsibilities and duties impacting patients’ lives. Students must be able to demonstrate rational and appropriate behavior under stressful conditions. Individuals should give careful consideration to the mental and physical demands of the NDT Program.
Additional Requirements:
Additional requirements are completed after admission to the NDT Program. These include but are not limited to:
- The Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Students may need to complete one or more of the following requirements prior to starting their internship: Immunization/Drug Screening/TB Skin Test/Criminal Background Check.
- You may need to have health insurance to complete the internship. This is dependent on facility placement.
- Other items may be required based on facility placement.
Accreditation
Nationally Accredited
Accreditation, Dietetic Technician Program
The Dietetic Technician Program at Central Arizona College has maintained accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition & Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics since 1978. The Nutrition and Dietetic Technician Program is accredited through June 30, 2029.
While state interpretations of statutes may vary, it is ACEND’s considered opinion that the program meets the educational requirements for dietetics licensure and certification in all states. However, completing an ACEND-accredited academic program alone does not qualify an individual for licensure or certification as a dietetic technician in any state. Individuals should review their state’s licensing statutes and regulations to understand the specific requirements, including supervised practice and examinations, needed to obtain a dietetics license. More information about state licensure and certification can be found at this link:
State Licensure.
Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190
Chicago, IL 60606-6995
800-877-1600, Extension 5400
www.eatright.org/ACEND/
Dietetic Education Program Certificates
Many of the following certificates also meet some of the requirements for the Nutrition & Dietetic Technician (NDT) AAS Degree. Students interested in working towards a NDTAAS degree or needing information about CDM certificates are encouraged to contact the DEP Program Advisor at diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu or schedule a phone call.
________________________________________________________________________________________
Certifying Board for Dietary Managers Pathways I and IIIb-ANFP Approved Program
Dietary Manager Training ( DMT ) Certificate:
This certificate is for experienced foodservice workers and/or supervisors with roles in healthcare facilities and various other food service establishments. The DMT Certificate at Central Arizona College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for individuals with a minimum of two years of institutional food service management experience that meets the eligibility requirements of CBDM Pathway III(b) to sit for the National Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Credentialing Exam.
Course Requirements:
Total Credits: 7
NTR105 ServSafe (1) (No certification, preparation only)
NTR223 Food Service Management (3)
NTR240 Clinical Nutrition (3)
Students must earn:
-a grade of a C or better in each required class;
-a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale;
-a minimum of 3 earned CAC credits numbered 100 or above;
-a minimum of 7 semester credits
Nutrition and Foodservice Professional Training Program (NFSPTP) Certificate:
This certificate is a proven successful pathway (CBDM Pathway I) to obtain the nationally recognized credentials CDM and CFPP. CDM, CFPPs are nationally recognized experts at managing foodservice operations. Many CDMs work in healthcare, nursing facilities, rehabilitation facilities, senior living communities, or hospitals. Some CDMs work in correctional facilities, schools, and the military, others work for corporations. Certified Dietary Managers (CDMs) are trained and qualified to manage menus, food purchasing, and food preparation; and to apply nutrition principles, document nutrition information, ensure food safety, manage work teams, and much more. Our program requires 11 credits that can be done online and part -time in three (3) semesters. The required internship can usually be done in YOUR facility. Upon completion of this certificate, students are eligible to sit for the National Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Credentialing Exam. (Individuals that have two years of institution foodservice management experience, may qualify for CBDM Pathway IIIb).
Course Requirements
Total Credits: 11
NTR105 ServSafe (1) (No certificate, preparation only)
NTR223 Food Service Management (3)
NTR240 Clinical Nutrition (3)
NTR196 Dietary Manager Internship (4)
Students must earn:
-a grade of a C or better in each required class;
-a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale;
-a minimum of 3 earned CAC credits numbered 100 or above;
-a minimum of 11 semester credits
Dietary Manager Internship Information for Nutrition and Foodservice Professional Training (NFSPT) Certificate Program (CBDM Pathway I):
The DM Internship requires a minimum of 150 hours of practical experience coordinated by the Dietetic Education Program Director and Preceptor(s). From the 150 hours, 50 precepted hours are required with 25 directly supervised by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or with the approval of the program director, a Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR) with at least one year of practitioner experience. The remaining 25 hours are directly supervised by a CDM, CFPP, DTR or RDN. In the absence of an RD, DTR or CDM, CFPP and with the approval from the program director, other healthcare foodservice professionals such as Executive Chefs and Directors of Foodservice who have a minimum of 5 years of work experience in a managerial or supervisory capacity in non-commercial foodservice with third-party oversight such as CMS, TJC, State Department of Health, etc., can precept the foodservice field experience. Additionally, the intern must document at least 100 hours compiling a portfolio that will be submitted to the CAC Instructor.
Prior to beginning the internship experience, interns are required to find a facility and preceptor. Also, interns are required to review the Certified Dietary Manager Pathway I Handbook which includes information on the legal and ethical aspects specific to internships for nutrition professionals. Preceptor and student paperwork as well as an agreement between the facility and CAC needs to be completed before interns start their Dietary Manager Internship.
DM Projects:
Project A – Nutrition and Medical Nutrition Therapy
Project B – Management of Food Service
Project C – Human Resource Management
Project D – Sanitation and Food Safety
For information about obtaining a Pre-professional ANFP Membership, please click below:
Approved since 1988 by the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP). The ANFP Program Review Committee has granted full approval to the online Nutrition and Foodservice Professional Training Program (formerly known as Dietary Manager Training Program) through August 31, 2028.
National Certification (Credentialing Exam)
Students who complete the DMT or the NFSPT certificate are eligible to earn two credentials, Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) and Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP) by taking a National Certification Exam offered by Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals. The CDM/CFPP exam is offered year-round at more than 200 approved computer testing centers. At this time, CDM/CFPP exam applications and fees are only accepted online. Please refer to Exam Candidate Handbook.For questions about the CDM Credentialing Exam, please contact:
Certifying Board for Dietary Managers
www.cbdmonline.org
Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals
www.anfponline.orgAssociation of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP)/Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM)
PO Box 3610
St. Charles, IL 60174
Tel: 800.323.1908 or 630.587.6336
Fax: 630.587.6308
E-mail: info@ANFPonline.org
Website: www.anfponline.org info@ANFPonline.org or info@CBDMonline.org
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The NDTAAS Degree includes two stackable nutrition certificates:
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- Community Nutrition Worker
- Nutrition & Health Promotion
Community Nutrition Worker Certificate Requirements:
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- All new NDT students interested in the NDT program are initially required to choose the Community Nutrition Worker (CNW) Certificate as their program of study at CAC.
- Completion of the CNW certificate program is a requirement (in addition to the four pre-requisite courses) for admission into the NDT Program. All courses for the CNW certificate must be completed before officially starting the NDT program.
- Once students complete this certificate and are accepted into the NDT program, they will fill out a change of program of study and declare the NDTAAS degree as their program of study at CAC.
- Review the NDTAAS suggested degree map below to see how this certificate requirement fits into the timeline for completing the NDT program.
Information about the two stackable nutrition certificates:
Community Nutrition Worker (CNW) Certificate: This certificate develops skills and competencies in the area of food, nutrition and wellness for public health. It is specifically geared toward employees who work for WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. VENA competencies have been correlated with this curriculum.
Nutrition and Health Promotion (NHP) Certificate: This certificate is designed to provide knowledge and training for people who are working with individuals who need education and coaching to lead a healthy lifestyle. This certificate is based on health promotion and disease prevention. This certificate is beneficial to individuals working in fitness centers, health food stores, weight loss centers, wellness centers, school foodservice as well as Certified Nursing Assistants, and continuing education for allied health and paraprofessionals.
Contact Information
Dietetic Education Program & Academic Advising
Academic Advising
Nutrition and Dietetic Technician Students – Questions regarding NTR courses:
Contact the Diet Tech Advisor diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu from your CAC student email address and include your CAC student ID number or schedule a phone call here. Please allow the Dietetic Technician Advisor up to two working days to respond.
General Education Courses – Questions for transferability of general education courses:
Contact the Diet Tech Advisor diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu, with the course number, name, catalog description, number of credits, and college taken at or to be taken at.
Contact DEP :
Central Arizona College
Dietetic Education Program
8470 N. Overfield Rd
Coolidge, AZ 85128
Signal Peak Campus – W113
800-465-1016 / 520-494-5497
nutrition@centralaz.edu
Staff and Adjunct Faculty
Sheri Steincamp, MS, RDN
Director
sheri.steincamp@centralaz.edu
Karrin Klosterboer
Program Assistant
nutrition@centralaz.edu
Pamela Hector, RDN
Dietetic Tech Advisor/Instructional Specialist
diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu
Melinda Barnum, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
melinda.barnum@centralaz.edu
Orville E. Bigelow, DHSc, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
orville.bigelow@centralaz.edu
Kara Boley, MA, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
kara.boley@centralaz.edu
Susan Leo, MPH, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
susan.leo@centralaz.edu
Romy Nelson, M.Ed., DTR
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
romy.nelson@centralaz.edu
Becca Ritzko, M.Ed., NDTR
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
rebecca.ritzko@centralaz.edu
Tasha Williams, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
tasha.williams@centralaz.edu
Career & Transfer Resources
Transfer Center
Many students who start their college career at Central Arizona College plan to continue on for a bachelor’s degree. If you plan to transfer, our Transfer Center has many resources to help you make the most of your time at CAC and plan for a smooth and successful transfer.
Career Center
The Career Center is where students can find up-to-date resources in career assessment, resume development, interview preparation, and internships and more.
Related Occupations
Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.
Faculty
Melinda Barnum, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
melinda.barnum@centralaz.edu
Kara Boley, MA, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
kara.boley@centralaz.edu
Sheri Steincamp, MS, RDN
Director
sheri.steincamp@centralaz.edu
Pamela Hector, RDN
Dietetic Advisor/Instructional Specialist
diettechadvisor@centralaz.edu
Karrin Klosterboer
Program Assistant
karrin.klosterboer@centralaz.edu
Becca Ritzko M.Ed., NDTR
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
rebecca.ritzko@centralaz.edu
Tasha Williams, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
tasha.williams@centralaz.edu
Orville E. Bigelow, DHSc, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
orville.bigelow@centralaz.edu
Susan Leo, MPH, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
susan.leo@centralaz.edu
Romy Nelson, M.Ed., DTR
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
romy.nelson@centralaz.edu
Lauren Peña, MS, RDN
Adjunct Nutrition Faculty
lauren.pena@centralaz.edu