A Diploma in Diet & Nutrition

Many people are already self-proclaimed experts in diets like the Atkins diet, grapefruit diet and the Zone diet by virtue of trying them all in hopes of losing weight. Too few people, however, understand the nutritional component of such diets. Pursuing a diploma in diet and nutrition provides knowledge of what the body needs for nourishment and what to eat to satiate these needs.

Types of Diplomas

• A diploma in diet and nutrition comes in many forms. A certificate in diet and nutrition is usually accompanied with the completion of a primary degree, like a Bachelor of Science in biology. Depending on the institution, one must take four or five classes pertaining to the subject to earn a certificate.

  An associate degree in diet and nutrition requires two years of coursework, with additional classes in general studies such as economics and math. A bachelor's degree requires four years. The American Dietetic Association explains in the book, "Complete Food and Nutrition Guide" that at least a bachelor's degree is required to become a registered dietician, a common career choice for those pursuing credentials in this field.

  Many universities offer a master's degree or doctorate in nutrition as well. Some offer online master's programs, including the University of Bridgeport and Saint Joseph College.

Fields of Diet and Nutrition

• Diplomas in diet and nutrition can include specific fields, which later help the recipient of the diploma become a board certified specialist. Specialty fields include pediatric nutrition, sports dietitian, diabetes specialist and gerontological nutrition. Some may pursue their diploma in holistic wellness and nutrition. These diplomas have coursework with an emphasis in homeopathy, herbal studies or alternative diets such as the vegan or raw food diet.

Coursework

• Ample coursework in biology and chemistry is to be expected. Students take advanced coursework in organic chemistry, human biology and physiology. Arizona State University's degree requirements for a bachelor's in nutrition lists coursework such as "Medical Nutrition Therapy," "Human Nutrition Assessment" and "Intro to Planning Therapeutic Diets." In all nutrition classes, how the body metabolizes food is studied. Thus, common topics include how the body processes vitamins, minerals, fats, carbs and other nutrients.

Benefits of a Diploma

• Many students who earn a diploma in diet and nutrition go on to take a series of examinations to become a registered dietitian. However, many other career options are available to those with the proper credentials. Such careers include sports nutritionist, food scientist, health consultant and food service manager.

Warning

• Eleanor Noss Whitney and Francis Sienkiewicz Sizer, authors of the book "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies," warn potential students to avoid "diploma mills" or unaccredited institutions that award certificates based on incomplete coursework. Such schools issue a diploma after the student pays thousands in fees, but require few courses. Check that the school is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education before spending thousands of dollars in fees for a worthless diploma.