Nutrition and Dietetics, AS

Mission Statement

To prepare graduates with entry-level skills, competence, and flexibility to compete successfully in a dynamic employment market wherever food, nutrition, and wellness are emphasized.

Program Goals

1. The program will prepare graduates to be competent entry-level dietetic technicians.
2. To provide a Nutrition and Dietetics program that maintains a high level of student retention.
3. The program will offer quality instruction and comprehensive services to a diverse student population.

There is a growing demand for qualified personnel in the field of nutrition and dietetics throughout the United States. The registered dietetic technician works under the supervision of a registered dietitian nutritionist in health care, community nutrition, and food service management. 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 Nutrition and Dietetics program is currently granted probationary accreditation by Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (A.N.D.), 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, 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 nutrition and dietetics technicians (DTR). Graduates are also eligible for membership in the A.N.D. and the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals (ANFP). Graduates may take the ANFP exam to become a Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Food Protection Professional (CDM, CFPP). 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 nutrition and dietetics. A minimum of 450 hours of supervised internship provides opportunities to practice these skills. Students who wish to transfer to an A.N.D.-accredited four-year program in nutrition and dietetics should consult the program director regarding the transferability of courses.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements:

• Graduates will achieve a pass rate of at least 70% 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* 103 - Nutrition Therapy I .
• Eighty percent of students will evaluate each nutrition course with an overall minimum rating of good or better.
• Program faculty will maintain their Registered Dietitian status and professional portfolio/continuing education credits while employed by Gateway Community College.
• Students will attend a minimum of 8 hours at professional meetings offering continuing education units.

Admissions Procedure

All students must first apply to and be accepted by the College. 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, CPR, 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 Doran. A complete physical examination is required before internship begins.

Graduation Requirements

In addition to the College’s general requirements, this program requires a minimum grade of “C” in each and all science, math 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 Nutrition and Dietetics program whose health, clinical performance, attendance, or conduct does not meet the program standards. For more information, contact the Program Coordinator, Marcia Doran, at (203) 285-2390 or e-mail mdoran@gatewayct.edu.