Associate of Science in Dietetic Technology Merritt College

The Dietetic Technology program provides training for Dietetic Technicians, who work cooperatively with Registered Dietitians. The Dietetic Technician is certified by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to screen clients for nutritional risk, and assist in assessing dietary needs, implementing care plans, and supervising food production and service. The Dietetic Technician, trained in food and nutrition, is an integral member of the healthcare, business and industry, public health, food service, and research team.

To qualify for the Associate in Science in Dietetic Technology degree, students must satisfactorily complete the degree major requirements specified below and the local AA/AS General Education requirements.

Peralta Colleges/Faiza Ali

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Utilize up-to-date, evidence-based practices in the field of nutrition and dietetics
• Effectively communicate within the professional environment utilizing various verbal, and written methods and electronic-based technology.

Program Requirements

Major Core Courses

• Nutrition 4
• Nutrition and Disease 3
• Sanitation and Safety 2
• Food-Production Systems 3
• Supervision and Training 3
• Seminar in Supervised Practice, Level A 2
• Seminar in Supervised Practice, Level B 3
• Seminar in Supervised Practice, Level C 3
• Rotations in Supervised Practice, Level A 2
• Rotations in Supervised Practice, Level B 2
• Rotations in Supervised Practice, Level C 2
• Basic Human Anatomy and Physiology 4
• Medical Terminology I 2

*BIOL 24 Fulfills both 4 units of major requirements and 4 units of general education requirements

Required General Education Courses

Area 2 - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Select one Psychology or Sociology course for 3 units 3

Area 3 - Humanities

Select one course for 3 units 3

Area 4 - Language and Rationality

• Composition and Reading 4
• Select one course in Area 4b (Mathematics) 3
• Select one course in Area 4c (Computer Literacy) 1
• Select one course in Area 4d (Oral or Written Communication, or Literature) 3

Area 5 - Ethnic Studies Select one course for 3 units 3

Elective Courses

Select 3 units of degree-applicable courses 3

Major Requirements 38

Total Units 60

Career opportunities may include food service managers, dietetic technicians, first-line supervisors of food preparation and serving workers, and nutrition assistants in institutions and cafeterias.