SDSU Offers Online Professional Certificate Programs in Nutrition

Employment of nutritionists and dietitians is projected to grow 16 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the latest report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, the report concludes that individuals who have earned certificates or advanced degrees in a specialty area may enjoy better job prospects.

SDSU’s College of Extended Studies offers two fully-online certificate programs designed for personal trainers, group fitness instructors, registered dieticians (RD) and dietetic technician-registered (DTR) professionals seeking CEUs, as well as health enthusiasts wanting to learn more about nutrition and healthy eating. The programs provide an in-depth examination of advanced sports nutrition, vitamin/protein supplementation, functional food implementation, antioxidants, and meal-plan analysis for optimal performance.

“I have had many students over the years send me emails that it’s changed their lives, and the way they eat and practice their lifestyle,” said instructor Melissa Halas-Liang, who has taught in the program for nearly 15 years. “That’s why I’m still teaching. I teach because I love it.”

Students can choose from two certificate programs: Nutrition for Optimal Health and Wellness; or Nutrition for Optimal Health, Wellness, and Sports. The first program consists of three online courses; the second includes the same three online courses plus Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance.

“I always say you get what you give,” Halas-Liang added. “The more students put into their class discussion questions and reading my feedback with additional education links, the more they get out of it. But the goal is to finish within eight weeks and work at a pace that works with your lifestyle and schedule.”

For additional information visit neverstoplearning.net/nutrition, call (619) 594-3297, or email healthcare.ces@mail.sdsu.edu