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Education Pathways in Child Nutrition Profession

Chart outlining the education pathways to careers in the child nutrition profession.

The following career-goal chart outlines the education pathways to the eight child nutrition positions. Three education and training options are suggested for each position.

Position Level Entry Education Level Basic Education Level Recommended Education Level
1. Substitute

Food Safety,
3 hours

Introduction to the C.N. Program (Part A) 10 hours or ½ unit

Introduction to the C.N. Program, (Parts A, B, C, & D) 32-40 hours or 2 units

2. General Assistant
10 hours or ½ unit
3 units

Completion of 6 units

3. Technical Assistant
1 unit
9 units
11-18 units
4. Site and/or Production Level Manager

32-40 hours or 2 units

 Completion of Certificate of Achievement 24-28 units

Associate in Arts or Associate in Science Degree
5. Area Supervisor or Assistant Director

Certificate of Achievement 24-28 units

Associate in Arts or Associate in Science Degree
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree
6. Nutrition Education Specialist
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree
Bachelor of Science* or Bachelor of Arts Degree
Master of Science* or Master of Arts Degree
7. Director
Associate in Science or Associate in Arts Degree
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree
Bachelor of Science* or Bachelor of Arts Degree
8. Administrator
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree
Bachelor of Science* or Bachelor of Arts Degree
Master of Science* or Master of Arts Degree

*Eligibility for registration by the American Dietetic Association is recommended.

Questions:   Education and Nutrition Policy Unit | 800-952-5609
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