Frequently Asked Questions

• • What is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?
    A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RD or RDN) is a nationally credentialed food and nutrition expert who has completed both a bachelor’s and master’s degree with course work approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND), supervised practice, and passed a national exam. RDNs provide evidence-based nutrition care in clinical, community, foodservice, and wellness settings.
  • Where do Registered Dietitian Nutritionists work?
    Registered Dietitian Nutritionists work in hospitals, clinics, public health programs, schools, corporate wellness programs, private practice, food service management, research, and community organizations. Refer to Career Paths for more information.
  • Can I complete coursework here at Mt. SAC? 
    Yes. Mt. SAC offers foundational coursework that prepares students for transfer to both undergraduate and graduate programs in nutrition and dietetics.
  • I am interested in Nutrition, what course(s) should I take first?
    Most students begin with NF 25 – Introduction to Nutrition Science, which provides an excellent introduction to the field. This course transfers to most universities. After completing NF 25, you can enroll in NF 1 - Introduction to Nutrition as a Career. In NF 1 you will explore the field of Nutrition in more depth.
  • Who should I call to make a counseling appointment?
    Contact the Mt. SAC Counseling Department to schedule an appointment with a counselor who can help you plan your coursework. If you are majoring in Nutrition, be sure to request an appointment with our designated Nutrition & Foods Program Counselor, Patricia Maestro. Call (909) 274-6231 or email pmaestro@mtsac.edu.
  • How can I get credit for a Mt. SAC course if I took a similar course at another college?
    Fill out a Request for Variance or Credit for Equivalent Course form and submit to the appropriate Department Chair. For Nutrition and Foods (NF) courses, submit to the chair of the Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and Nutrition & Foods (CHNF) Department.
  • What do I do if a course I need to complete my degree is not offered the semester I want to graduate?
    Meet with a counselor and contact the Nutrition & Foods Program Coordinator as soon as possible to discuss options.
  • How do I get a Mt. SAC certificate once I have completed the certificate requirements?
    You must apply for your degree or certificate through Admissions & Records once all requirements are completed.
  • If a class is full and I want to add the class, what do I do?
    If a class is full, you should add yourself to the waitlist through the Mt. SAC Portal and check your Mt. SAC email regularly, as you may be automatically added if a seat becomes available. If you are still on the waitlist or the waitlist is full, attend the first class meeting and let the instructor know you would like to add the course. For fully online classes, you should email the instructor to express your interest in adding. If space allows, the instructor may provide you with an add authorization code.
  • If I want to complain about a teacher, what do I do?
    Students are encouraged to first speak directly with the instructor. If concerns remain, you may contact the appropriate department chair for further guidance. For complaints about Nutrition & Foods (NF) course instructors, contact the chair of the Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and Nutrition & Foods (CHNF) Department.