Career Guide for Nutrition and Dietetics Studies

Dietitians and nutritionists are health professionals who study and apply the principles of nutrition and food management. There are several kinds of dietitians and nutritionists. The largest group is made up of administrative dietitians. Administrative dietitians manage food services in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, restaurants, industrial plants, military bases, and other institutions. Nutritionists study the use of food in the human body. They may teach others about scientific discoveries in the field of nutrition. These discoveries can then be applied to the planning of diets and menus. Career prospects in this field are sumptuous for young aspirants owing to rising health convolutions.

Courses & Eligibility:

Students can pursue graduate/post-graduate degrees in subjects like home science, dietetics & nutrition, food science technology to step into this field. Candidates seeking admission in the bachelor courses should have passed 10+2 in science stream. Some universities offer B.A courses in home science for which science at 10+2 level is not necessary. The bachelor courses are of three years in duration. The 2 year post-graduate courses require a graduate degree in related subjects. Besides, one can also avail the one year post graduate diploma in Dietetics and Public Health Nutrition (DDPHN). After doing a post graduation programme, one can also opt for PhD and engage in research activities.

Career Prospects:

Dietitians with skill and experience can become directors of food service in a hospital, school, or other institution. With further training they can become nutritionists and can be hired for sports hostels and athletes camps. Health and recreation clubs, canteen and nursing care facilities also require the services of nutritionists and dietitians. Employment opportunities are also open to them in catering department of star hotels and restaurants and research labs of food manufacturers. Moreover they could find openings in the mass media where top priority is given to disseminating vital information on healthy living. Both dietitians and nutritionists can move into teaching or research jobs in colleges if they have the required education. They can also advance to administration and consulting work. There is growing concern about the quality of diet of the people and an increase in the awareness of the potential disease-prevention qualities of certain foods. a result, dietitians and nutritionists are being called on to teach good eating habits and to plan nutritional meals in institutions.

Remuneration:

Candidates working in the government sector can earn between Rs 8,000 to Rs. 15,000 per month. Private sector hotels, restaurants, food manufactures offer higher salary and attractive perks. Independent practitioners and private consultants can enjoy good earnings depending on the number and nature of their clients.