Dietary Manager Certificate Launches Students into Exciting Healthcare Careers
The Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) program at Fullerton College opens many opportunities for advancement. A career and technical education certificate from the nutrition and foods department, the program launched in spring 2023 to prepare emerging professionals for a job in a growing field. Students who earn the Dietary Manager Certificate are considered ready to take the CDM credential exam, pass it and start an exciting career in the healthcare industry.
The certificate consists of five courses and 150 hours of practice under the supervision of a credentialed professional throughout two semesters. Recipients who pass the certification exam are eligible for well-paying roles as dietary managers of foodservice operations in healthcare settings, such as nursing homes, long-term care facilities, senior living communities and hospitals.
The CDM program on campus is managed by Faculty Advisor and Professor of Nutrition and Foods, Rita Higgins. To facilitate the process of finding internships for students, Higgins, who teaches the internship course, has cultivated special partnerships with six different healthcare facilities, with St. Jude Medical Center being among these facilities.
“This program equips students with the necessary skills and credentials to support their professional advancement in a rapidly growing field,” said Higgins. “Our graduates are finding that the program not only provides immediate job opportunities, but also serves as a valuable foundation for further educational and career growth.”
Flexibility is one of the program’s unique elements, catering to working professionals. Classes are offered in-person and online, while internship and practice hours are in person.
So far, four students have completed the program and are now advancing to meet their professional goals.
Learn more about the CDM program on the nutrition and foods department website.
