UACCM launches new certificate program in dietary management

MORRILTON — The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton is launching a new certificate program in dietary management, offering students the career pathway of managing food-service operations as a certified dietary manager. The one-year program, which provides students a certificate of proficiency, will begin classes in the fall 2020 semester.

The new major is a comprehensive 16-credit-hour program that blends classwork and 150 hours of field experience, equipping graduates with the skills to enter the workforce immediately. The program follows the curriculum prescribed by the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals, a national organization made up of dietary managers.

Certified dietary managers are critical in the planning, storage and preparation of meals. They assist in planning menus and inspect food to ensure that proper dietary standards are met. These specialists often counsel individuals on proper eating habits to lose weight or manage a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. Examples of potential workplaces for certified dietary managers include government agencies that provide services on nutrition, and health care settings such as hospitals and long-term-care facilities.

“I’ve met several people who are very passionate about nutrition, food service and health care but don’t feel they are able to sacrifice six years of full-time college to become a registered dietitian nutritionist,” said Erin Aylor, a UACCM nutrition instructor. “After just one year, successful students of our program will be eligible to take their credentialing exam to become a certified dietary manager and get out into the workforce.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the increasing national attention on nutrition and food safety will result in more nutritionists. Between 2018 and 2028, the Bureau projects an 11.2 percent growth in the field, resulting in 8,000 new jobs.

The new certificate offers an expansion of nutrition classes already available at UACCM. Coursework includes classes such as food service program management, nutrition and diet therapy, as well as the heavy focus on fieldwork. The program also emphasizes flexibility and caters to students with busy schedules.

“Our classes meet just one night per week, meaning students are able to work and take care of family obligations while pursuing their path to a brighter future,” Aylor said.

For more information about the program, contact Aylor at aylor@uaccm.edu or (501) 354-7579, or Marilyn Thomas, dean of general education, at thomas@uaccm. edu or (501) 977-2070.