18 Accredited Dietetic Technician Programs in 2025

4 Active Online DTR Programs Available Nationwide

These four accredited programs offer fully online coursework, allowing you to complete your dietetic technician education from anywhere in the United States. You’ll arrange supervised practice hours locally while taking all classes online. Click school names for complete program details.

Note: Northland Community & Technical College (Minnesota) offers an online program, but it is currently inactive until July 28, 2025. Contact them for updates on the reopening of enrollment.

The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.

What is a Dietetic Technician, Registered?

A Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) is a food and nutrition professional who has completed specialized education and passed a national credentialing examination. DTRs work as integral members of healthcare and food service teams, often alongside Registered Dietitians.

DTRs are qualified to:

• Screen patients and clients for nutritional risks
• Gather and document nutrition assessment data
• Provide nutrition education to individuals and groups
• Develop menus for healthcare facilities and schools
• Manage food service operations and personnel
• Support community nutrition programs and wellness initiatives

Learn more about DTR career responsibilities and job opportunities in various healthcare settings.

All 18 Accredited DTR Programs by State (Click for Details)

The following table lists all current ACEND-accredited Dietetic Technician programs. Click on any institution name to jump to complete program details, including contact information, accreditation dates, and special features. Programs are verified through the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

Legend:
Active = Currently accepting students
Inactive = Temporarily not accepting new students
Closing = Accepting final cohorts before closure

Important Program Status Updates

Programs Requiring Special Attention:

• Northland Community & Technical College (Minnesota): Currently inactive. Expected to resume accepting students on July 28, 2025. Contact the school for updates.
• Cuyahoga Community College (Ohio): Program closure pending December 19, 2025, and currently accepting final cohort.
• Suffolk County Community College (New York): Program closure scheduled for June 30, 2028. Still accepting students through 2026.

Always contact programs directly to verify current enrollment status, as situations can change.

No DTR Program in Your State? Your Options

Many states no longer have accredited DTR programs due to various factors, including low enrollment and budget constraints. If your state lacks a program, consider these alternatives:

Option 1: Enroll in an Online DTR Program

Four programs currently offer fully online coursework that accepts students from any state. You’ll complete 450 hours of supervised practice at approved facilities in your local area while taking classes online. This is often the most convenient and cost-effective option.

Option 2: Consider Temporary Relocation

Ohio offers the most programs (5 total), making it a hub for DTR education. Students from neighboring states often relocate temporarily for their two-year program.

Option 3: Explore Alternative Nutrition Credentials

If becoming a DTR isn’t feasible, these related credentials may align with your career goals:

• Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) – Requires a master’s degree but offers independent practice
• Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) – Popular in food service management, requires less education
• Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) – Requires a bachelor’s degree plus a master’s degree for new candidates after January 1, 2024

How to Become a Dietetic Technician: Education Requirements

The path to becoming a Dietetic Technician, Registered, follows these required steps:

1. Complete an ACEND-accredited DTR program
   • Earn an Associate degree (AS or AAS)
   • Complete didactic coursework in nutrition, food science, and management
   • Finish 450 hours of supervised practice experience
   • Typical completion time: 2 years full-time, 3-4 years part-time
2. Apply for the national registration examination
   • Submit an application through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
   • Provide official transcripts and program verification
   • Pay examination fees (approximately $120)
3. Pass the DTR examination
   • Computer-based exam with 110 questions
   • Topics include food service, nutrition care, and management
   • Minimum passing score established by CDR
4. Maintain your registration
   • Complete 50 hours of continuing education every 5 years
   • Pay annual registration fees
   • Optional: Pursue specialty certifications

DTR Salary and Career Outlook by State

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), Dietetic Technicians earn varying salaries based on location, experience, and work setting:

• Median annual wage: $36,240
• Entry-level (10th percentile): $24,850
• Experienced (90th percentile): $54,040
• Median hourly wage: $17.42

Top-Paying Employment Settings:

Job Growth Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of dietetic technicians to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will be strongest in outpatient care centers and senior living facilities, driven by aging populations and an increased focus on preventive care.

Geographic Variations: Salaries vary significantly by state and metropolitan area. Urban areas typically offer wages 15-25% higher than those in rural locations. States with higher costs of living generally offer proportionally higher salaries.

Compare detailed salaries for nutritionists and dietitians by credential and location.

2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for dietitians, nutritionists, and dietetic technicians reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary—data accessed September 2025.

DTR Program Application Process

Each program has specific requirements, but most follow this general application process:

1. Meet Basic Prerequisites:
   • High school diploma or GED (required by all programs)
   • Minimum GPA requirements (typically 2.5 or higher)
   • Completion of prerequisite courses (varies by program)
2. Submit Application Materials:
   • Complete the college application form
   • Official high school and/or college transcripts
   • Placement test scores (math and English)
   • Application fee ($25-$75 typical)
3. Complete Additional Requirements:
   • Attend the mandatory information session or orientation
   • Submit health records and immunizations
   • Pass background check (for clinical placements)
   • Some programs require letters of recommendation

Application Timing: Most programs accept students for the fall semester, with applications typically due between February and June. Some programs offer admission in the spring or summer. Contact schools directly for specific deadlines.

DTR vs RD: Comparing Career Paths

Understanding the differences between DTR and RD credentials helps you choose the right nutrition career path:

Learn more about choosing between DTR and RD credentials for your career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why have so many DTR programs closed?

DTR programs have declined due to multiple factors: low student enrollment, budget constraints at community colleges, competition from bachelor’s degree programs, and confusion about career pathways. The 2024 master’s degree requirement for new RDs has also led some schools to focus resources on four-year nutrition programs instead.

Can I complete a DTR program entirely online from my home state?

Four programs offer fully online didactic coursework. However, all students must complete 450 hours of supervised in-person practice. Online programs help you arrange this practice at approved facilities near your home, but you cannot complete the entire program remotely.

How long does it take to become a DTR?

Full-time students typically complete DTR programs in 2 years (4-5 semesters). Part-time students may take up to -4 years to complete their studies. After graduation, allow 2-3 months for exam application processing and scheduling.

Is it worth becoming a DTR if I eventually want to be an RD?

Becoming a DTR first can provide valuable experience and income while pursuing further education. Some DTR coursework can be transferred to bachelor’s programs, potentially saving time and money. However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree, consider RD programs directly.

Which states offer the best job opportunities for DTRs?

States with the highest employment of dietetic technicians include California, Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. However, rural areas often have less competition for positions. Federal facilities nationwide consistently offer the highest salaries.

What if a program loses accreditation while I’m enrolled?

Students enrolled when accreditation ends typically have a grace period (usually 1-2 years) to complete the program and remain eligible for the DTR exam. Always verify your program’s current accreditation status each semester to ensure ongoing compliance with accreditation requirements.

Do online DTR programs cost more than on-campus programs?

Online programs often charge the same tuition as on-campus programs, though you may save on housing and commuting costs. However, out-of-state online students sometimes pay higher tuition rates. Compare total costs including fees, books, and supervised practice expenses.

The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.

Complete Program Details Directory

Below you’ll find comprehensive details for each accredited DTR program, including contact information, special features, and accreditation status. Information is current as of December 2024.

Note: Contact information may change. Always verify details directly with the school’s admissions office or visit their website for the most current information.

Arizona

California

Connecticut

Minnesota

Nevada

New Jersey

New York

Ohio

Pennsylvania

Texas

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Ready to Start Your Journey to Becoming a Dietetic Technician?

With limited programs available nationwide, it is crucial to start your research early. Contact the programs that match your needs to learn about specific prerequisites, costs, and application deadlines. If you’re considering a longer educational pathway, explore our comprehensive guide to becoming a Registered Dietitian for additional career options in nutrition and dietetics.

The following bachelors and Master’s programs offer career-focused instruction delivered by trained nutritionists with experience in the field. Find out more what each individual course of study offers through the locations below.

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD

Dr. Lena Voss, RD, PhD, is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritional Epidemiologist with over 18 years of experience in evidence-based nutrition. Holding a PhD from the University of Copenhagen, she specializes in dietary interventions for metabolic health and sustainable eating. Dr. Voss has published in leading journals like The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and contributed to global wellness programs

See Full Bio