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Dietetic Technology

Associate in Science

There is a growing demand for qualified personnel in the field of dietetics throughout the United States. The registered dietetic technician works under the supervision of a registered dietitian in health care, community nutrition, and food service management programs. Registered dietetic technicians function as active members of the nutrition team by assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the nutritional care of individuals or by supervising food service operations. The Dietetic Technology program is currently granted initial accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, Illinois 60606-6995; (312) 899-0040 ext. 5400 or (800) 877-1600; www.eatright.org.

Graduates of the program are encouraged to take the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s registration examination to become registered dietetic technicians (DTR). Graduates are also eligible for membership in the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and the Dietary Managers Association (DMA). The program reflects the coordination of theory and practice that is required for students to acquire the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for competent practice in dietetics.  A minimum of 450 hours of supervised field experience provides opportunities to practice these skills. Students who wish to transfer to an ADA-approved four-year program in dietetics should consult the program director regarding the transferability of courses. Students may also consider the Liberal Arts Nutrition Focus degree .

Dietetic Technology Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, the graduate should possess the following skills:

• Graduates will achieve a pass rate of at least 80% on the DTR exam over a five year period.
• Within twelve months of graduating at least 60% of the graduates will have attained employment related to the field of dietetics and/or enrolled in an accredited continuing education program.
• Students will achieve a satisfactory rating for the entry-level competencies of a dietetic technician.
• Employers will rate program graduates in their employ as satisfactory knowledge base on surveys.
• An attrition rate of 35% or less will be maintained for students completing NTR 104  Nutrition II.
• Eighty percent of students will evaluate each nutrition course with an overall minimum rating of good or better.
• Students will attend a minimum of 10 hours at professional meetings offering continuing education units.

Admissions Procedure
All students must first apply to and be accepted by the College. The Dietetic Technology Program application form, available from the Admissions Office or dietetics program director, must then be completed. Unless waived, all applicants must take placement tests in reading, English, and mathematics. Students in this program are responsible for expenses for uniforms, physical examinations, travel to field sites, parking, and meals. Specific information about these costs and coverage for accident and liability insurance is available from the Program Coordinator, Marcia Swan Doran. A complete physical examination is required before field experience begins.

Graduation Requirements
In addition to the College’s general requirements, this program requires a minimum grade of “C” (73 percent) in each and all science and program-specific courses. The student must also successfully complete all of the program competencies and must pass the National Restaurant Association Sanitation exam. The program coordinator reserves the right to recommend to the College the withdrawal of a student from the Dietetic Technology program whose health, clinical performance, attendance, or conduct does not meet the program standards. For more information, contact the Program Coordinator, Marcia Swan Doran, at (203) 285-2389 or email mdoran@gwcc.commnet.edu.