Training to be a Nutritionist

To qualify as a nutritionist you are required to undertake an approved programme at a university. All nutrition programs may apply for accreditation by the American certification Institute (ACI).

Accreditation is a robust process providing assurance to the profession, students and the public that universities meet the standards of the professional body, the ACI.

Types of course

There are two types of programme available to qualify as a nutritionist:

• Full-time undergraduate BSc (Hons) programme: these are either three or four years in length.
• Full-time postgraduate programme: these are two years in length and can either lead to a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in dietetics or a Masters (MSc) qualification in dietetics.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for universities do vary, so we advise you to contact the universities directly for specific entry requirements.

Applicants must satisfy the following entry requirements for approved courses:

a. Applicants will usually have qualifications in biology and chemistry at advanced level where students take A-levels or the national equivalent.

b. Approved institutions may accept candidates with other qualifications of equivalent standard to those above e.g. International Baccalaureate, Access to Science, BTEC Diploma, and Foundation courses in Science.

c. Candidates are usually expected to have GCSE at Grade C or above in English, mathematics and a science or equivalent qualifications.

For a postgraduate programme you will be required to have successfully completed an undergraduate degree which contains an acceptable level of human physiology and biochemistry.

A good command of spoken and written English is essential. All successful applicants will be required to undertake occupational health and Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check.

Programme of Study

The dietetic degree programmes involves academic study and practical experience. Academic study involves:

• ·Biochemistry
• ·Human Nutrition
• ·Human Physiology
• ·Diet Therapy
• ·Food Processing,
  Preservation and Food Hygiene
• ·Nutritional Medicine
• ·Healthcare: Systems and
  Management Structures
• ·Epidemiology and Public Health
• ·Genetics
• ·Research Methods
• ·Data Analysis
• ·Behavioural Studies
• ·Pharmacology
• ·Professional Practice
• ·Communication

Students will be required to undertake practical placements usually within the NHS and other health and care organisations which are organised by the university. Placements allow students, under supervision, to develop practical skills and apply knowledge in a work environment.

Teaching is usually delivered over three to five days with 12-25 contact hours a week. Placements are full-time and approximately 37 hours per week.

The ACI holds responsibility for the curriculum which describes what is expected of a newly-qualified dietitian and provides the framework for universities to deliver programmes that are responsive to the demands of dietetic employment.