About our Nutrition & Dietetics Associate Degree
The Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics degree at Southern Maine Community College provides introductory courses as a starting point for students interested in working in areas of nutrition care, dietary management, health, fitness, and wellness. The nutrition and dietetics degree consists of foundational courses in science, English, math, social sciences, humanities, dietetics, and nutrition. This degree is especially appropriate for individuals interested in transferring to a baccalaureate program in health or exercise science and for those who wish to pursue a professional degree as a Registered Dietitian.
Students pursuing a Nutrition and Dietetics degree may opt to complete a second major in Health Science or Culinary Arts. Acceptance into these programs is based upon application to the program and meeting minimum entrance criteria.
What skills will I have as a graduate of this program?
- Use current technologies for information and communication.
- Conduct nutrition screenings, assessments and interventions.
- Apply principles of nutrition science for health promotion and disease prevention.
- Participate in nutrition care of individuals across the lifespan and a diversity of people, cultures and religions.
- Supervise production of food that meets nutrition guidelines, cost parameters and consumer acceptance.
- Perform ethically in accordance with the values of the healthcare system.
What opportunities does this program provide?
Launch Your Career
SMCC graduates in this program have gone on to work as:
- Nutrition Assistant
- Health and Wellness Coordinator
- Food Technologist
- Weight Loss Counselor
- Community Health Nutrition Specialist
Continue Your Education
SMCC graduates have used our transfer agreements to continue their education at:
- Johnson & Wales University
- Maine College of Art
- Mount Holyoke College
- Saint Joseph’s College
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Thomas College
- University of Maine
- University of New England
- University of Southern Maine
- Wellesley College
To view our seamless transfer agreements, visit our Transfer webpage.
How do I complete this program?
Browse the information below to view our program requirements and how you might complete this program.
Estimated Full-Time Degree Completion Time
Please note, these estimates are based on a student taking an average of 15 credits per semester and do not include college preparatory or developmental courses.
Interested in viewing full program and course details?
- View full program details in our academic catalog.
- View a list of current major-specific courses for this program.
- View all current courses.
Are you a current student?
Be sure to view the degree program requirements for your specific program. Log into MySMCC and click My Maine Guide, MyDegree to learn more.
Related Programs
Not ready to commit to a degree program? We may have other options that work for you.
Did you know that we offer a broad array of short-term workforce training programs that allow you to enter the workforce and start earning quickly? These programs are a great way to enter a career in your area of interest and to become accustomed to college classes. They are also often grant-funded (free of charge to trainees). And, if you find you want to keep going, we can help you find a related academic degree or certificate program of interest with which you can continue your education.
Learn More:
Outcome Data
The program will prepare students with skills necessary to provide food and nutritional care for diverse individuals and groups in a variety of employment settings.
- 80% of students will complete the program within five years.
- 80% of graduates will receive a “satisfactory” rating on their competency attainment as identified by employers.
- 80% of graduates seeking employment will report success in finding discipline-related employment within one year.
- The program will enable students who desire advanced study to transfer coursework to other institutions and also motivate students to become lifelong learners.
- 80% of graduates will evaluate their preparation as “satisfactory” or above on the competency-related statements from a graduate survey.
- 80% of graduates will indicate they believe the program prepared them to assume the responsibilities of their current position as “satisfactory” or better.
- Students who transfer to a four-year college in Maine will transfer 90% of their courses with a grade of C or better.
- 80% of students will become members of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics or other professional nutrition or food service organization.
Costs & Financial Aid
This degree program may have specific associated costs which are important to know before attending. We encourage you to apply for financial aid which provides funds in the form of grants and scholarship (free), loans (need to repay) and student employment (earned money.)
Want to learn more?
Fill out a quick form and we’ll reach out to provide more info.
Ready to apply?
Learn how to apply and fill out our online application when you’re ready.
Additional Admissions Requirements:
Please note that our Health Sciences programs have additional requirements.
For more information, visit our Health Science Applicants webpage.
Contact Us:
Admissions: 207-741-5800 or admissions@smccME.edu
Faculty Chair: Deborah Brooks, 207-741-5648 or dbrooks@smccME.edu