Entry into this field can be at two levels:
For a traineeship the requirement is a B.Sc. in home science plus a diploma in food science. Trainees must undergo a one–year probation period before they are absorbed as full nutritionists/dietitians.
For a Nutritionist/Dietitian the requirement a B.Sc. in Home science plus a diploma in dietary services with one or two year’s work experience, or an M.Sc. in home science with work experience.
Candidates with a postgraduate diploma in dietetics and public health nutrition are, however, preferred in this field.
Eligibility
For Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health Nutrition (DDPHN): B.Sc. in Home Science (10+2+3 scheme) from a recognized university, with 50% marks in the aggregate and 50% or above marks in the aggregate in foods and nutrition, physiology and biochemistry.
For M.Sc. Home Science (Food and Nutrition): B.Sc. in Home science (10+2+3 scheme) from a recognized university with an aggregate of 55% marks, and 55% marks aggregate in foods and nutrition, food science, biochemistry, nutrition and the family, in the Honours course, in the Pass course, food science, biochemistry and nutrition and dietetics.
Selection of candidates to the DDPHN courses is made in order of merit, on the basis of marks scored in foods and nutrition, physiology and biochemistry.
Training
As the practice of dietetics requires considerable technical knowledge and experience, formal training is essential for a successful career.
A large number of institutions around the country offer good courses in dietetics and public health nutrition. Some institutions also conduct graduate courses in nutrition and dietetics.
Duration of Training
The DDPHN course is spread over one academic year, with a compulsory three–month internship, working in a hospital under a qualified dietician.
An M.Sc. Home Science degree is obtained after two years of training.
Academic programme
Subjects of study covered during the DDPHN training include biochemistry, nutrition, applied physiology, food, microbiology, administration, therapeutic nutrition, and public health nutrition.
While the M.Sc. home science course includes biochemistry, physiology, biostatistics, research methods, investigation into nutrition, human nutritional requirements, food microbiology and principles of food science in the first years, human nutrition and dietetics, institutional management and food science are included in the final years.
