Nutrition and Dietetics

Program Description

The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program allows students to fulfill lower division major requirements at a community college and guarantees transfer with junior status to a college within the California State University (CSU) system. Students who complete an ADT and transfer to a similar major at a CSU are guaranteed a pathway to finish their baccalaureate degrees in 60 semester units.

The Associate in Sciences for Transfer (AS-T) Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics is for students who seek to transfer into a baccalaureate degree program in Nutrition or a similar major at a CSU institution. It prepares students to function in a variety of nutrition, public health and clinical settings and or to prepare for a career in nutrition and dietetics by meeting the requirements to work in a variety of health and wellness settings.

This AS-T degree program requires students to meet the following requirements:

1. Completion of 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to the CSU system, including the following:
   1. The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirements.
   2. A minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
   3. A minimum of 12 semester units earned at Merritt College.
2. Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
3. Obtainment of a minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major.

The completion time for this AS-T degree program is generally 4 semesters. Completion time will vary based on student preparation and the number of units completed per semester.

See the Transfer Information section of this catalog for more information on ADT and Cal-GETC requirements.

Career Opportunities

Those completing the Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics will be able to transfer to CSU campuses that will prepare them for a variety of careers, such as community nutrition specialist, teaching nutrition education, working as nutrition assistant in a hospital setting, or becoming a Dietetic Technician, Registered through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In addition, students may choose to pursue advanced study in a variety of graduate programs after receiving their baccalaureate degree. With a baccalaureate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics or similar baccalaureate degree, students are eligible to apply for a dietetic internship through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to become a Registered Dietitian.

Learning Outcome(s)

1. Provide and maintain the highest level of personal ethical behavior.
2. Communicate with clients and colleagues in a professional and culturally sensitive manner.
3. Utilize up-to-date, evidence-based practices in the field of nutrition and dietetics
4. Communicate effectively orally, and in writing, in a health care or community nutrition environment, whether working with children, families or seniors.
5. Advocate within the community for continued support of health and nutrition.