Career Differentiation

• A certified dietary manager position should not be confused with that of a dietitian. Educational requirements may differ. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, (BLS) dietitians and nutritionists require at the minimum a bachelor’s degree and must follow the state mandates for licensing. Advanced degrees are offered in this field for those that wish to specialize in a particular facet of the industry.
  
  

Initial Training

• Prior to attaining a certification, becoming a dietary manger normally starts with a training program. The University of Florida offers a hands-on curriculum consisting of 200 hours of classroom study combined with an additional 200 hours of field work. The program presented by this university and a number of other educational institutions meets requirements established by the Dietary Managers Association (DMA). Coursework includes modules detailing nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, human resources management and food safety. Another group that sets standards for the industry is the American Dietetic Association.
  
  

Attaining a Certification

• Certified dietary manager (CDM) is an accreditation a dietary manager can earn through the DMA. Certifications are important to validate an expertise in the field. There are three steps to follow in pursuing the accreditation. A manager must qualify for the exam by completing a training program approved by the DMA or posses a two or four-year related degree. Registration for the exam completes the second step. Normally states offer these exams twice per year. Upon passing the exam an applicant can complete the process by applying to the DMA for the certificate.
  
  

Employment

• Facilities that employ certified dietary managers may have varying degrees of minimum job requirements. Depending on the size and purpose of the institution, a potential employer might request previous supervisory experience. Additionally, a specific type of experience may be required. For example, a hiring hospital may stipulate that the job applicant have experience working in a medical facility.
  
  

Considerations

• For those just entering the field as a certified dietary manger, it is advisable to keep current in the industry. The DMA is a national organization with affiliate chapters in each state. Obtaining a membership and getting involved is often times a good way to network, gain experience and grow your career. Organizations such as the DMA also offer conferences, webinars and live lectures which can be another avenue in gaining knowledge and advancing in the field.