Dietetic Technician (Nutrition) Program

Dietetic Technician Program Requirements

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Degree Requirements

This is a limited entry program. The dietetic technician program coordinator will be responsible for the initial screening of applicants meeting minimum criteria and the final selection of students.

The open door admission policy of TMCC encourages the entire community to become involved in the college's programs. All adults 18 years or older or those who are high school graduates or the equivalent and who are United States citizens or immigrants may enroll in the college. High school students, international students and non-immigrants may also be eligible.

In order to enroll, the first time student:

  • Must complete the admission form at least two days before registration.
  • Take the Computerized Placements Tests (in math and English) or submit ACT/SAT results.
  • For entry in the Dietetic Technician Program, the student must also:
    • Meet with the Dietetic Technician Program Coordinator
    • Complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher in each course.
    • Transcript of grades earned in prerequisite courses and verification of computer skills will be required before entry into the internships.
    • Proof of vaccinations, TB tests, background checks and fingerprinting will be required prior to entry into the internships.

Educational and Professional Requirements

Dietetic technicians, registered (DTRs), are trained in food and nutrition and are an integral part of health care and food service management teams. DTRs have met the following criteria to earn the DTR credential:

  • Completed at least a two-year associate's degree at a US regionally accredited college or university.
  • Completed a dietetic technician program, such as the Dietetic Technician Program at TMCC. These programs are approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and include 450 hours of supervised practice experience in various community programs, health care, and food-service facilities.
  • Passed a national, written examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
  • Completed continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.

College Course Work: The associate degree course work for dietetic technicians includes a variety of classes in food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems management, and a range of general science courses.

Insurance Requirements

Medical Insurance: Before enrollment in the Supervised Experience Practicums (NUTR 291, 292, 293), the student must show proof of medical insurance. This may be through a parent's or spouses' plan or through Student Health Service.

All students registered for six (6) or more credits are eligible for medical care at the Student Health Service on the UNR campus upon payment of class fees. International students on a student visa are required to purchase the health service and International Medical Insurance. Spouse and dependent coverage is also available in some circumstances. See TMCC catalog for additional information.

Travel Insurance: Students assume responsibility for accident liability to and from any off-campus activities such as field trips, professional meetings, or the Supervised Experience Practicums.

Professional Liability Insurance: Professional liability insurance is not necessary while in the program.