An online associate degree in nutrition is best known in the nutrition field as a Dietetic Technician (DT) degree. As in the other articles in this series about online nutrition degrees, it is best to go to a respected source for quality information. In the nutrition field it is the American Dietetic Association.
First and foremost, it is important to get an accredited degree from a college that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education (CADE), especially as this degree may lead you into an even higher education down the line and you will want to be sure that those hard-earned credits will transfer.
Essentially, an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Nutrition online that is accredited by the CADE will earn you status as a Dietetic Technician, Registered (also known as a DTR). As a DTR there will be many career options to choose from in the workforce. You could work alongside of a Registered Dietitian (RD) in a hospital, school, fitness center, community health department, nonprofit agencies, such as Women Infant and Children's programs (WIC) or Meals on Wheels to name a few, or even become an entry-level dietary manager in food service. This depends on the chosen associate degree focus.
Keep in mind also that depending upon the chosen program, a student earning this degree online may be required to submit a personal portfolio, do clinical practice in a local school or facility, or complete a practical experience internship to complete the degree program. Each school has different requirements, so choose the most compatible one for you.
