Top 11 Dietetic Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for dietetic technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and show employers that the technician has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties. With certifications, employers can be assured that a technician is knowledgeable about relevant topics such as nutrition, food safety, and patient care. Furthermore, certifications provide assurance that a technician is able to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. Finally, certifications may also increase a technician’s salary potential as employers may view them as more qualified for higher-level positions.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Dietetic Technicians and explain how they can enhance a dietetic technician's career.

What are Dietetic Technician Certifications?

Dietetic technician certification is a professional credential for individuals who work in the field of nutrition and dietetics. This certification is offered through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and it recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge in this field. The certification requires passing an exam that tests the individual’s understanding of the principles and practices of nutrition, food service management, and food safety. With this certification, individuals demonstrate their expertise in nutrition counseling, menu planning, food preparation, therapeutic diets, community nutrition education, and other related areas.

Having dietetic technician certification can help individuals to stand out among other candidates when applying for jobs in the field of nutrition and dietetics. It can also open up opportunities for advancement within their current positions or for higher-level positions at other organizations. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire certified professionals as they have shown that they have met a certain standard of knowledge and expertise required in this field. Furthermore, having this certification can give an individual greater confidence in their abilities as a professional nutritionist or dietitian.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have the necessary qualifications and experience to become a certified dietetic technician. Check with your state's licensing board for specific requirements, such as the number of hours of supervised practice, prior education and training, or any other qualifications that may be required. You can also look into online certification programs that provide comprehensive training in nutrition and dietetics.

Related: What does a Dietetic Technician do?

Top 11 Dietetic Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Dietetic Technicians today.

1. Certified Dietary Manager (CDM)

A Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) is a professional who has been trained and certified in the management of food service operations. This includes menu planning, nutrition, food safety, sanitation, budgeting, personnel management and customer service. The CDM credential is offered by the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP).

To become a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM), you must complete an ANFP-approved training program and pass the certification exam. The training program typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on the school and program chosen. Once you have completed your training program, you can apply to take the exam through ANFP.

The cost for the exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ANFP. For non-members, the cost is $275; for members, it is $225. In addition to the exam fee, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as study materials and/or travel expenses.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, you will need to renew it every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

2. Certified Food and Nutrition Professional (CFNP)

A Certified Food and Nutrition Professional (CFNP) is a credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and expertise in food and nutrition. It is awarded by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, which is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals.

To become a CFNP, individuals must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or related field from an accredited institution, as well as at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice in the field. They must also pass an exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

The process to become a CFNP may take anywhere from six months to two years depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Individuals must first complete their degree, followed by supervised practice hours, before they can sit for the exam.

The cost to become a CFNP varies depending on factors such as educational background, experience level, and whether additional courses or certifications are required. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 or more to become certified. This includes costs associated with tuition fees for courses or certifications needed to meet eligibility requirements for taking the exam, as well as registration fees for taking the exam itself.

3. Registered Dietetic Technician (RDT)

A Registered Dietetic Technician (RDT) is a professional who provides nutrition care and education services to individuals, groups, and communities. RDTs are qualified to provide nutrition care services in a variety of settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health centers, public health departments, foodservice operations, and private practice.

In order to become an RDT, an individual must complete the following steps:

1. Complete a minimum of a two-year Associate’s degree at an accredited college or university with coursework approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

2. Pass the national registration examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

3. Obtain licensure or certification from the state in which they plan to practice (if applicable).

4. Maintain continuing education credits as required by CDR and/or state licensing boards.

5. Maintain current membership in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) or other professional organizations as required by CDR or state licensing boards.

The cost of becoming an RDT will vary depending on where you attend school and what type of program you choose to pursue; however, most programs range from $10,000-$20,000 per year for tuition alone. Other costs may include books/supplies, room & board fees, transportation fees, etc., so it is important to research all associated costs prior to enrolling in any program.

4. Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN)

A Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) is a healthcare professional who specializes in the practice of nutrition and dietetics. CCNs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat nutritional imbalances and deficiencies that may be causing or contributing to health problems. They use evidence-based nutrition therapy to help their clients improve their overall health and well-being.

It typically takes two years of full-time study to become a CCN. To qualify for certification, applicants must have a bachelor's degree in nutrition science, complete an accredited clinical nutrition program, pass an exam administered by the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS), and maintain ongoing continuing education requirements.

To become a CCN, you must first complete an accredited clinical nutrition program from an institution recognized by the CBNS. You can find a list of approved programs on the CBNS website. Once you have completed your program, you can apply for certification by submitting your application online or via mail along with all required documents and fees.

The cost of becoming a CCN varies depending on the program you choose; however, it typically ranges from $1,500-$3,000 USD including tuition fees and exam fees.

5. Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC)

Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of nutrition support. This certification is offered by the National Board of Nutrition Support Certification (NBNSC).

The CNSC certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as medical nutrition therapy, enteral and parenteral nutrition, and nutrition support practice management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CNSC exam, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, including a Bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics from an accredited institution or a Master’s degree in nutrition or dietetics from an accredited institution. Additionally, applicants must have at least two years of full-time professional practice experience in nutrition support within the last five years prior to applying for the exam.

The cost to take the CNSC exam is $395 for members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or $495 for non-members. The cost includes access to study materials as well as one free retake if needed.

6. Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSPN)

Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition (CSPN) is a credential offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). It is designed to recognize registered dietitians and nutritionists who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and experience in pediatric nutrition.

It takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for the CSPN credential. The first step is to become a registered dietitian or nutritionist. After that, you must complete at least 900 hours of supervised practice in pediatric nutrition within five years prior to applying for certification. You will also need to pass an exam administered by the CDR.

The cost of the CSPN credential varies depending on your membership status with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). If you are a member of AND, it costs $200; if you are not a member, it costs $250. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the exam.

7. Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSRN)

Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSRN) is a professional certification offered by the National Kidney Foundation. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in renal nutrition, which includes the nutritional care and management of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The CSRN credential demonstrates that an individual has met the criteria for knowledge and experience in renal nutrition, as well as having passed a comprehensive examination.

The CSRN program requires applicants to have at least two years of clinical experience working with CKD patients, either as a registered dietitian or a nurse practitioner. Applicants must also complete at least 30 hours of continuing education in renal nutrition topics within the past five years. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply to take the CSRN exam.

The CSRN exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical nutrition therapy, dialysis therapies, metabolic complications of CKD, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is administered twice a year at testing centers throughout the US.

The cost for taking the CSRN exam is $350 for National Kidney Foundation members and $450 for non-members. After passing the exam, there is an additional fee of $50 for processing your application and issuing your certificate.

8. Board Certified Specialty in Oncology Nutrition (CSON)

Board Certified Specialty in Oncology Nutrition (CSON) is a certification program offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). It is designed to recognize registered dietitians and nutritionists who have achieved advanced knowledge and expertise in the field of oncology nutrition.

The CSON certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of practice experience, complete 45 continuing professional education credits, and pass an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions based on the content outline provided by CDR.

To get certified, applicants must first register with CDR and submit an application along with required documents. Once approved, they can then schedule their exam within 12 months from the date of approval.

The cost for the CSON certification is $385 for members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or $485 for non-members. This fee includes registration fees, examination fees, and any applicable taxes.

9. Board Certified Specialty in Gerontological Nutrition (CGSN)

Board Certified Specialty in Gerontological Nutrition (CGSN) is a certification that recognizes the expertise of nutrition professionals who specialize in providing nutrition services to older adults. It is offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), which is the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The CGSN certification requires specialized knowledge and skills in gerontological nutrition, including understanding the physiological changes associated with aging, assessing nutritional needs, developing individualized nutrition plans, and providing appropriate interventions.

To become certified as a CGSN, individuals must first meet all eligibility requirements set forth by CDR. These include having an active registration with CDR as a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RD/RDN) or Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR), completing at least 1,000 hours of practice experience in gerontological nutrition within five years prior to application submission, and passing an examination administered by CDR.

The cost to apply for the CGSN certification varies depending on whether you are already registered with CDR or not. For those already registered with CDR, the cost is $235; for those who are not registered yet, the cost is $385. Once you have applied and been approved for certification, there is an annual renewal fee of $60 due each year to maintain your certification status.

In total, it typically takes about 6-12 months from start to finish to become certified as a CGSN. This includes time spent meeting eligibility requirements, submitting your application and payment to CDR, studying for and taking the exam when it becomes available, and waiting for your results from CDR.

10. Board Certified Specialty in Sports Dietetics (CSSD)

Board Certified Specialty in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) is a certification that recognizes the expertise of Registered Dietitians (RDs) who specialize in sports nutrition. The CSSD credential is awarded by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), which is the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This certification demonstrates that an RD has advanced knowledge and experience in providing evidence-based nutrition care to athletes, active individuals, and teams.

In order to become a CSSD, an RD must have at least five years of experience in sports dietetics, including three years of direct practice with athletes or active individuals. Additionally, they must complete 75 hours of continuing education related to sports nutrition within the last five years and pass a comprehensive exam administered by CDR.

The cost to take the exam is $395 USD for members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or $495 USD for non-members. Once you have passed the exam, there is an annual fee of $100 USD to maintain your certification.

11. Board Certified Specialty in Diabetes Care and Education (BCSDE).

Board Certified Specialty in Diabetes Care and Education (BCSDE) is a certification program for health care professionals who specialize in diabetes care and education. The certification is offered by the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE). It is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and abilities in diabetes care and education.

The BCSDE certification requires applicants to have a minimum of two years of experience as a diabetes educator or nurse practitioner/physician assistant with at least 1,000 hours of direct patient contact. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as medical nutrition therapy, physical activity, pharmacology, psychosocial aspects of diabetes management, and self-management education.

The process to become board certified typically takes about six months from start to finish. The first step is to complete the online application form which includes submitting proof of your qualifications and experience. Once the application is approved, you will be sent a link to register for the exam. After registering for the exam, you will receive study materials and have up to six months to prepare for the exam. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official BCSDE certificate.

The cost for becoming board certified varies depending on whether or not you are an AADE member. For non-members, the cost is $400 plus any applicable taxes; for members it is $300 plus applicable taxes.

Do You Really Need a Dietetic Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question largely depends on what career path you are looking to pursue. If you are interested in becoming a dietetic technician, then having a certificate is absolutely necessary. Dietetic technicians must complete an accredited program, pass an exam and obtain the proper certification in order to be qualified for employment.

Having a certificate will show potential employers that you have taken the necessary steps to become educated and certified in the field of dietetics. It will also demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your willingness to take the initiative to learn more about it. Additionally, having a certificate may give you an edge over other candidates who do not have one.

In addition to being required for certain positions, having a certificate can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in nutrition science and trends within the industry. This knowledge can be beneficial when it comes time to apply for jobs or advance within your current position. It can also help ensure that you remain competent in your field as new information becomes available.

Finally, having a certificate may open doors of opportunity that may not have been available otherwise. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed some form of higher education or specialized training in their field, so having a certificate could give you an advantage when applying for jobs or promotions within your organization.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a dietetic technician certificate ultimately depends on what type of career path you are pursuing. If becoming a dietetic technician is something that interests you, then obtaining certification is essential for success in this field.

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FAQs About Dietetic Technician Certifications

1. What is a Dietetic Technician Certification?

Answer: A Dietetic Technician Certification (DTR) is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of nutrition and dietetics. It is awarded by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to those who have completed an accredited DTR program, passed a national exam, and met other educational requirements.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Dietetic Technician?

Answer: The time frame for completing the requirements for certification depends on your individual circumstances. Generally, it takes about two years to complete the required coursework, pass the national exam, and fulfill other educational requirements.

3. What kind of job can I get with a Dietetic Technician Certification?

Answer: With a DTR certification, you can find employment in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, research institutions, corporate wellness centers, public health departments, government agencies, food service companies and more. You could work as a clinical dietitian or nutritionist providing medical nutrition therapy or work in community nutrition planning and education programs.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Dietetic Technician?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Dietetic Technician can provide many benefits such as increased job opportunities and higher salaries than non-certified individuals; recognition from colleagues in the field; access to resources from professional organizations; improved patient care through specialized training; increased credibility among employers; and personal satisfaction from achieving a milestone in your career path.

5. How much does it cost to become certified as a Dietetic Technician?

Answer: The cost for taking the national exam varies depending on whether you are an Academy member or non-member when registering for the exam. In addition to this fee there may also be additional costs associated with completing any necessary coursework or other requirements for certification such as books or supplies associated with your program of study.