Nutrition & Dietetics

Nutrition and Dietetics, a subdiscipline of Health, actually the science that studies everything about food and its impact on our health and well-being. Nutritionists and dietitians work to improve people's health and help them make healthier food choices. Nutrition and dietetics courses include Nutritional biochemistry, Clinical nutrition, Nutrition in health, Principles of dietetics, Human physiology, Intermediary metabolism, Food science, Diet in disease, Research methodology, Food microbiology and food safety, Product development, Nutrition for health and fitness. Nutrition is the process by which organisms use food to create energy and chemical structures. Dietetics is the study of how food and nutrition affect human health. Nutritionists and dietitians together use nutrition and food science to help people improve their health, make better dietary choices, and find a balance between good eating habits and exercising.

Nutrition and dietetics can lead to personal and professional growth, and play a crucial role in promoting healthy living and preventing diseases. The course graduates are food and nutrition experts who frequently work in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health centres, and private practice. Nutrition and dietetics courses are available at various levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.  The Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus and subjects cover a wide range of topics including nutrition, food management, food preservation, and food service. 

To be eligible for the Nutrition and Dietetics course, candidates must have passed Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Biology/Chemistry/Physics) subjects and a 50% or equivalent CGPA. Nutrition and dietetics course admission is typically based on Class 12 results; however, some universities accept CUET and CUET PG scores. Dietician courses cost between INR 10k and INR 7 L. Jamia Hamdard, CMC, LPU, and Amity University are among the most popular colleges. 

Candidates who complete a Dietician course can pursue careers as a Sports Nutritionist/Dietician, Clinical Dietician/Nutritionist, Community Dietician/Nutritionist, Paediatric Dietician/Nutritionist, Management Dietician/Nutritionist, and so on. 

Nutrition and dietetics graduates can work as:

• Dieticians: In hospitals
• Project assistants: For people in dire need
• Public health workers: In the field of public health
• Sport nutritionists: In the field of sport nutrition
• Food industry professionals: In the food industry 

The average salary for a Dietician course graduate ranges from INR 2 LPA to INR 11 LPA. Candidates can continue reading to know more about the Nutrition and Dietetics course in detail!

• BA or BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics admission is based on the CUET entrance exam. The CUET UG 2024 exam dates have been announced. The National Testing Agency will administer the CUET UG Exam 2024 from May 15 to May 31, 2024.
• The National Testing Agency began the CUET UG 2024 registration process on February 27, 2024. Registration is now open online. Candidates who want to take the CUET UG 2024 exam must complete the CUET 2024 registration process. 
• For MA or MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, CUET PG 2024 registration is closed now, and the deadline to apply was January 24, 2024.
• The CUET PG exam is scheduled to be held between March 11 and March 28, 2024.

Students can get a quick overview about the Nutrition and Dietetics course. The Nutrition and Dietetics course offers major highlights, as listed below. 

Also Read: Best Certificate Courses in India 

There are various reasons to pursue a Nutrition and Dietetics course. Some of them are:

• Following a degree in nutrition or dietetics, a person's career path is quite productive, as people are becoming more aware of their health and fitness with each passing day. 
• Being a dietician or nutritionist increases public health by raising awareness about diet, nutrition, and the link between healthy eating habits and disease prevention or management. They promote wellness and teach people about health as educators. They contribute to the creation and execution of plans aimed at enhancing the general and individual well-being of communities. 
• They can also register as professionals, helping in the caregiving industry and becoming Registered Nurses or Rehab Counsellors, for example. In addition, they can serve as sports nutritionists, assisting athletes in obtaining the right nourishment to achieve optimal athletic performance.
• It's a profitable career choice because dieticians and nutritionists frequently work at care facilities, corporations, food manufacturing industries, community and public health organisations, government agencies, and nonprofit organisations.

Some colleges accept entrance exam scores for admission to the Nutrition and Dietetics course. Candidates must take these entrance exams before applying in the Nutrition and Dietetics course. The Nutrition and Dietetics entrance exam listed below is required for admission.

LPU NEST- Lovely Professional University conducts the National Entrance and Scholarship Test annually for admission to different courses at undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered by the university. Pass with 60% aggregate marks in 10+2 (with English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Biotechnology) or equivalent, subject to qualify the exam. Nutrition and Dietetics course at LPU will of 3 years duration with an average fee of INR 4.80 Lakh (may change). For a candidate, who has not studied English as a subject, the condition of English may be waived off provided the candidate in his qualifying exam has studied in English medium.

CUET- Candidates can also pursue Nutrition and Dietetics program through CUET UG 2024. This entrance exam is a Computer Based Test that is conducted as a university level exam. CUET UG 2024 Exam will allow candidates to enroll for Nutrition and Dietetics course in various universities/colleges.

 MDU CEE- Maharshi Dayanand University conducts MDU CEE exam. It stands for Maharshi Dayanand University Common Entrance Test conducted at the University level for taking admission in different courses offered at undergraduate and postgraduate levels by Maharshi Dayanand University. 

ICAR AIEEA- ICAR AIEEA is a national-level entrance exam that is conducted annually by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The exam is used to select the most qualified candidates for admission to agriculture programs at various institutions that are affiliated with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). 

Also Read: DU UG Admission 2024 through CUET

Nutrition and Dietetics admission is based on both merit and entrance exam scores. However, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements listed below in order to be considered for Nutrition and Dietetics Admission 2024.

The eligibility criteria for the Nutrition and Dietetics course is mentioned below:

Nutrition and Dietetics Eligibility Criteria for Certificate, Undergraduate Diploma and Degree Courses

All interested candidates may check the eligibility criteria for the Nutrition and Dietetics Certificate, Undergraduate Diploma and Degree courses from the below mentioned  information:

• Candidates can apply for undergraduate diploma, degree and certificate courses after completing their class 12 board exams.
• Admission to 3-year diploma programmes offered by some government institutes is done on the basis of state level entrance exams.
• Admission to certificate and short-term diploma programmes is done directly after candidates have passed 10+2 exams.
• For BSc programmes, it is essential for students to study Physics, Chemistry, Biology till class 12.
• Some of the institutes offer B.Sc. courses in Nutrition and Dietetics on the basis of entrance exams, however others conduct admission on the basis of marks secured by applicants in class 12.

Nutrition and Dietetics Eligibility Criteria for Post Graduate Degree Courses

All interested candidates may check the eligibility criteria for the Nutrition and Dietetics Post Graduate Degree courses from the below mentioned  information:

• Candidates who have pursued BSc in this field with a minimum aggregate of 45% marks can apply for MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics.
• Admission to this programme is done on the basis of entrance exams. Some of the reputed institutes also conduct personal interviews to shortlist candidates for these programmes.
• Direct admission without entrance exams and personal interviews are also possible at some institutes.

Nutrition and Dietetics Eligibility Criteria for Post Graduate Diploma Courses

The candidates can check the eligibility criteria for the Nutrition and Dietetics Post Graduate Diploma courses are as follows.

• Aspiring candidates can apply for PG diploma programmes after completing their graduation in Nutrition and Dietetics.
• Some of the institutes also offer this programme to candidates who have pursued diploma courses in Nutrition and Dietetics.

Nutrition and Dietetics Admission Process 2024

The application process for Nutrition and Dietetics courses in India may differ slightly from other courses since it requires a specific set of abilities and knowledge. Most nutrition and dietetics colleges still select their applicants primarily through entrance exams, which are followed by interviews or group discussions. The admissions processes for nutrition and dietetics programmes in India are as follows.

• Entrance-Based Nutrition and Dietetics Admissions
• Merit-Based Nutrition and Dietetics Admissions

Although each college has its own admissions procedure for nutrition and dietetics, the general steps are as follows:

Step 1: Fill out the online Nutrition and Dietetics application form.

Step 2: Pay the registration fee and any additional costs that might be incurred in the event that admission is decided by merit. Entrance-based admissions to the nutrition and dietetics programme require exam-taking and passing.

Step 3: Those who made the short list will be invited to move on to the next round of interviews, group discussions, or counselling, depending on the nature of the process.

Step 4: Candidates must submit all required documents and fees in order to be admitted to the Nutrition and Dietetics programme after completing the previous steps.

Nutrition and Dietetics Required Skills

All professions agree on the importance of having a strong skill set for both career advancement and financial success. Therefore, students interested in pursuing a degree in nutrition and dietetics must also have the necessary skills. Here's a list of the skills needed for nutrition and dietetics courses:

• Interest in food preparation
• Good interpersonal skills
• Proficient in report writing
• Proficient in problem-solving
• Excellent research and planning skills
• Compassionate for others
• Good verbal and listening skills
• Organizational ability
• Teamwork spirit
• Time management skills
• Understanding of science and human physiology

Nutrition and Dietetics admissions are typically determined by merit in most colleges and universities. The candidates selected for admission to the Nutrition and Dietetics programme will be determined by a written 10+2 exam, a series of in-person interviews, and/or a relevant qualifying exam. In these situations, candidates are typically chosen based on their grades and results of a previous relevant exam.

Nutrition and Dietetics is an extensive programme with various kinds of specialisations. Students interested in nutrition and dietetics have plenty of options, including certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees. The nutrition and dietetics department provides BSc, MSc, Certificate, and Diploma programmes in the field. Students can enrol in any of the desired specialisations and follow the admissions process accordingly. The list of specialisation courses is given below.

• Certificate in Dietetics
• Diploma in Diet Assistant
• Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics
• BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics
• BSc in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
• MSc in Clinical Nutrition
• MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics
• PG Diploma in Dietetics
• PG Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health
• PGDM in Dietetics and Applied Nutrition

Also Read: Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India 

Some Nutrition and Dietetics specialisations are offered under the aforementioned courses, such as: 

There are many nutrition courses available in India, varying at various academic levels, including diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, certification, and online nutrition courses. These top nutrition courses in India are listed in this article so you can choose one based on your interests.

There are numerous nutrition and dietetics courses that provide a wide range of opportunities. The top nutrition courses in India are listed below:

• BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
• BSc Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics
• MSc Nutrition and Dietetics
• MSc Clinical Nutrition
• Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics
• Diploma in Nutrition and Health Education
• Diploma in Diet Assistant
• PG Diploma in Dietetics
• PG Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health
• PGDM in Dietetics and Applied Nutrition

The following detailed information is provided about some of the best nutrition courses in India:

Nutrition and Dietetics course fees range from INR 10K to 7L. Course fees may differ depending on the Nutrition and Dietetics college. A government-funded institute charges less than a private institute due to its infrastructure and facilities. 

The Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus combines theoretical and practical knowledge. The Nutrition and Dietetics Undergraduate syllabus is divided into six semesters and consists of theory classes, assignments, practical classes, internships, project work, and exams. The Nutrition and Dietetics PG syllabus is divided into four semesters. Candidates may look over the syllabus for both UG and PG programmes.

The Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus varies depending on the course selected by the candidate. We have listed the Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus for diploma, graduation, and postgraduate respectively.

BSc Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus 

The BSc Nutrition and Dietetics course focuses on food management and health promotion through healthy eating, with a particular emphasis on the body-food relationship. The course has six semesters in total. The semester-by-semester syllabus for this subject is as follows:

MSc Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus

The MSc Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus is divided into four semesters, with each semester containing approximately 5–7 subjects. The table below provides a comprehensive overview of the MSc Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus for each semester:

Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus 

The Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics course includes various subjects to study, which are listed in the table below.

Nutrition and Dietetics subject lists vary by college, but there are a few major Nutrition and Dietetics subject lists that are shared by the majority of Nutrition and Dietetics colleges and universities. Candidates might refer to the Nutrition and Dietetics subject list provided below.

• Basic Nutrition: Food is the most basic form of nutrition and is very important for survival because it gives the body the nutrients it needs to function. It is made up of macronutrients like fat, protein, and carbs that provide the body with energy and have particular functions in preserving health.
• Nutritional Biochemistry: It is the study of health, disease, and drug treatment through the application of physiology, medicine, microbiology, pharmacology, chemistry, and biology.
• Family Meal Management: It is a process that helps families save money, energy, and time by organising meals that meet each member's nutritional needs and choose foods that are age-appropriate and nutritious.
• Basic Dietetics: This diet consists of milk, fruits, and vegetables that catabolize to leave behind an alkaline residue that the body excretes in the urine. 
• Food Microbiology: The study of microorganisms that alter, process, contaminate, and deteriorate food is known as food microbiology. Within microbiology, it's regarded as a broad field of study.
• Food management: It is the process of controlling how food is handled, stored, and prepared in order to reduce the risk of food-borne illness. It is a crucial tool for preventing serious health problems.
• Personnel Management: Hiring, organising, and supporting employee positions are under the administrative function's purview. Its main goals are to support the working staff and hire the most qualified candidates for available positions.
• Community Nutrition: In a community setting, community nutrition refers to individual and interpersonal interventions that modify health outcomes and create changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour in individuals, families, or small, targeted groups.
• Biology: The scientific study of life is known as biology. Although it is a large-scope natural science, it is united by a number of themes that make it a cohesive field. For example, every living thing is composed of cells that process genetic information that is encoded in genes and can be passed down to subsequent generations.
• Advanced Nutrition: A line of dietary supplements designed to complement skincare products. It offers the recommended daily allowance of plant extracts, minerals, and vitamins.

Nutrition and Dietetics and Food Technology are two interconnected fields that contribute significantly to the promotion of health and well-being through food science. While both disciplines study food and its effects on the human body, they have different areas of specialisation and career opportunities. Nutrition and Dietetics and Food Technology are dynamic fields that help us understand the science of food and its impact on human health.

Also Read: BSc in Food Technology 

Food technology places more emphasis on the manufacturing and processing of secure and nourishing food products than nutrition and dietetics do on tailored dietary interventions. Those who are passionate about improving the food industry and promoting health can pursue exciting career opportunities in both fields. To compare the two courses, candidates can look at the table below.

In recent years, there has been a surge in demand in Food Nutrition and Dietetics, with numerous reputable colleges starting this course due to the increased employment prospects for those who complete a BSc or MSc in the field. Each college offers different nutrition and dietetics courses. The top dietetics and nutrition colleges are listed below for the students to take a look at. 

• Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi
• Quantum University, Roorkee
• University of Kashmir, Srinagar
• Mount Carmel College, Bangalore
• Lady Irwin College, New Delhi
• Banasthali University, Jaipur
• Shoolini University, Himachal Pradesh
• Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
• Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurgaon
• Chandigarh University

Also Read: Top Colleges in Delhi University Based on NIRF Ranking 2024

Some of India's popular private colleges that offer Nutrition and Dietetics courses include Christian Medical College, Vellore, LPU, Amity University, Noida, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana, Chandigarh University, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, etc.  The table below lists some other popular private colleges that offer Nutrition and Dietetics courses.

Note: The figures mentioned above are subject to change.

Some of India's popular government colleges that offer Nutrition and Dietetics courses include Jamia Hamdard, MSU, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, and SNDT College. The table below lists some other popular government colleges that offer Nutrition and Dietetics courses.

Note: The figures mentioned above are subject to change.

Candidates with a degree or diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics have a bright future ahead of them given the increasing worth of maintaining a balanced, healthful diet. The Nutrition and Dietetics employment area are research facilities, government and private hospitals, clinics, health departments, yoga studios, health clubs, fitness centres, pharmaceutical companies, hotels, and the food processing and manufacturing sector, among other places.

Nutrition and Dietetics Top Recruiters

Professionals in nutrition and dietetics get hired by the following companies:

Nutrition and Dietetics Employment Area 

The employment area for nutrition and dietetics is as follows:

• Food Packing Company
• Colleges & Universities
• Food Processing Companies
• Science Research Centres
• Content Writing (Health)
• Hospitals 

Nutrition and Dietetics Salary

Following completion of a Nutrition and Dietetics course, the starting salary in India varies between INR 2 and 10 LPA. However, the healthcare industry pays its employees differently depending on a number of variables, including the employee's experience, company size, job profile, and location. Not every employee in the company will receive the same salary. 

Nutrition and Dietetics Career Scope

The study of food, nutrition, and how it affects health is the main topic of nutrition and dietetics courses. It is essential for managing a range of medical conditions, preventing chronic diseases, and fostering good health. There are numerous career options in the public and private sectors for those with a background in nutrition and dietetics.

The field of nutrition and dietetics offers a wide range of career opportunities. It provides chances to positively influence people, communities, and society at large. A career in nutrition and dietetics enables individuals to support the promotion of health and well-being through one-on-one client work, community nutrition programme design, research, and teaching.

Many nutrition and dietetics courses are now available online due to the growing demand for online education. People with other responsibilities or working professionals can pursue their interests in nutrition and dietetics because these courses allow them to study at their own pace and convenience. The table below lists a few of the online nutrition and dietetics courses that are offered in India for interested candidates.