Certified Dietary Manager – Certificate of Achievement
What is a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)?
Certified Dietary Managers (CDM) are experts at managing foodservice operations and ensuring food safety, usually in a healthcare facility. They are responsible for implementation of menus, foodservice purchasing, and food preparation. They apply nutrition principles, document nutrition information, and manage work teams.
Employment possibilities
Certified Dietary Managers (CDM) are nationally recognized experts at managing dietary operations. Many work in health care—nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, senior living communities, or hospitals. Some work in correctional facilities, schools, and the military. Others work for corporations.
Program Admission:
To enroll in the program, students must first apply to Orange Coast College. Once admitted to the college, students should schedule an appointment with an academic counselor. For more information, visit our Admission website.
Program Requirements
This is a certificate of achievement program. The program includes 8 classes for a total of 25 units. (See Course Catalog for specific requirements). The program includes both classroom and field experience components. The field experience is appropriately precepted and has a required minimum of 150 hours. A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist coordinates the Certified Dietary Manager program, and supervises a portion of the field experience hours.
Learning in the program is sequential. Students must successfully complete the first semester courses prior to advancing to the second semester. In order to successfully complete the program and graduate, students must earn a grade of 'C' or better in all required classes. Students must also complete 150 hours of field experience and entry-level competencies.
Length of program
For full-time students, the length of the program is 2 semesters. Part-time students will take longer to graduate. To follow the sequence of classes, students should start their first semester in the fall.
Required Courses
First semester:
- FN A170 Nutrition
- FSM A150 Principles of Quantity Food Preparation
- FSM A160 Sanitation and Safety
- FSM A260 Supervision and Training Techniques
Second Semester:
- FSM A151 Food Production Management
- FSM A250 Menu Planning and Purchasing
- NC A175 Health Care Field Experience
- NC A180 Introduction to Medical Nutrition Therapy
Academic/Program Calendar
The Certified Dietary Manager program follows the Orange Coast College academic calendar.
Program cost
The enrollment fee is $46 per unit. In addition, students pay a Health Fee and College Service Charge each semester. Other costs related to uniforms and travel to field experience may apply. Consult the current college fees for current costs of classes and fees. Financial aid may be available. For more information, visit our Financial Aid Office web site.
Credentialing and Professional Membership
The Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals (ANFP) is a not-for-profit association dedicated to providing nutritional care through foodservice. It is the professional organization for Certified Dietary Managers. Students are eligible for Pre-Professional membership with ANFP.
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates are eligible for the Certified Dietary Manager credentialing exam and ANFP professional membership.
Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP)
406 Surrey Woods Dr.
St. Charles, IL 60174
Tel: 800.323.1908 or 630.587.6336
E-mail: info@ANFPonline.org