Nutrition & Dietetics Syllabus & Subjects 2024

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Mar 25, 2024 00:00AM IST

Nutrition & Dietetics Syllabus and Subject Overview

Nutrition and dietetics course syllabus typically cover topics such as Nutrition Science, Dietary Concepts, Family Meal Planning, Community Nutrition, Nutrition Principles, Food Microbiology, Food Service, Food Service Management, Chemistry, Biology, and Food Preservation. Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus has been designed in such a way that the students are exposed to a mix of both core and elective subjects. Nutrition and Dietetics courses are very high in demand among students of all levels such as Diploma, Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses. Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus is designed tactfully and attracts students because of increasing job opportunities in this field. 

Nutrition and dietetics course syllabus can include a wide range of topics, such as:

  • Food preservation strategies
  • Post-harvest technology
  • Human physiology
  • Food service management
  • Food science
  • Community nutrition
  • Environmental studies
  • Biochemistry
  • Family meal planning
  • Nutrition principles
  • Food microbiology 

Nutrition and dietetics course is necessary because almost everyone needs assistance from a nutritionist or dietician due to the increased awareness and consciousness of people's health conditions caused by a wide range of the media. Completing a Nutrition and Dietetics course opens up a plethora of private and public sector job opportunities. The course syllabus for nutrition and dietetics is very extensive, but some of the most popular topics covered include community nutrition, family meal management, principles of nutrition, food microbiology, food service, food service management, chemistry, biology, and food preservation.

One can pursue a bachelor's in Nutrition and Dietetics or an advanced diploma in nutrition and dietetics. Furthermore, one can pursue graduate study in a related field and continue their education beyond that. One of the best things about taking a nutrition and dietetics course is that you can become an entrepreneur by assisting people with the duty chart and getting a short-term certificate or diploma.   

Also Read: Top Colleges in DU Based on NIRF Ranking 2024

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Nutrition and Dietetics Course Details

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

ParticularsDetails
Course NameNutrition and Dietetics
Degree
  • Nutrition and Dietetics Certification Program
  • Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics
  • BSc Nutrition and Dietetics
  • MSc Nutrition and Dietetics
Course Duration
  • Certificate in Dietetics - 1 year
  • Diploma in Diet Assistant - 1 year
  • Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics - 3 years
  • BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics - 3 years
  • BSc in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics - 3 years
  • MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics - 2 years
  • MSc in Clinical Nutrition - 2 years
  • PGDM in Dietetics and Applied Nutrition - 2 year
  • PG Diploma in Dietetics - 1 year
  • PG Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health - 1-year
Eligibility Criteria
  • For certificate, undergraduate diploma, and degree courses: 10+2 in PCB
  • For Post Graduate Degree Courses: BSc with 45% marks 
  • For Post Graduate Diploma Courses: Graduation in the same field, diploma/certification
Admission Process
  • BSc (Entrance exam /10+2)
  • MSc (Entrance exam/graduation marks)
  • PG Diploma (direct admission) 
Top Entrance Exams:CUET, LPU NEST, MDUCEE, etc.
Nutrition and Dietetics Course Fee
  • Certification/Diploma: INR 35K - INR 1.50 L
  • Undergraduate: INR 50K - INR 2.50 LPA (may vary)
  • Post-Graduation: INR 50K - INR 2.50 LPA (may vary)
Career Options
  • Dietician
  • Nutrition specialist
  • Food Processing Manager
  • Food Inspector
  • Food Processing Manager
  • Personal Dietician
Average SalaryINR 2- 10 LPA 
Employment Area/Recruiting Companies
  • Urban Company 
  • Herbalife 
  • DocsApp
  • HealthifyMe
  • Food Packing Company
  • Colleges & Universities
  • Food Processing Companies
  • Science Research Centres
  • Content Writing (Health)
Specialisation OfferedUG or PG in Nutrition, Human Physiology, Food Science, Food Technology, Dietetics, etc.

Also Read: Best Certificate Courses in India 

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Dietetics and Nutrition Syllabus Important Facts

  • The undergraduate courses last three years, while the postgraduate courses last two. The course covers the required subjects in each semester, and the credits are appropriately awarded.
  • Due to the increased employment prospects in the field of nutrition and dietetics, students are drawn to this syllabus.
  • The nutrition and dietetics curriculum aims to teach students about a wide range of nutrition-related specialties. Teaching the various components of the Nutrition and Dietetics programme necessitates a high level of practical experience and problem-solving skills. 
  • This course teaches students the fundamentals of food science, enabling them to create diet plans for their clients or patients.
  • One of the most appealing aspects of the nutrition and dietetics course is the option to enrol in a short-term certificate or diploma programme. Starting your own business can be accomplished by advising and assisting others with their duty charts. 
  • One of the most intriguing components of the nutrition and dietetics syllabus is the opportunity to enrol in a short-term certificate or diploma programme. One could start their own business by advising and assisting others with their duty charts.
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Nutrition and Dietetics Year Wise Syllabus

Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus is designed in such a way that there is a combination of both theoretical and practical knowledge. Nutrition and Dietetics UG syllabus has been divided into six semesters and it is a mixture of theory classes, assignments, practical classes, internship, project work, and examination. Nutrition and Dietetics PG syllabus has been divided into 4 semesters. Listed below are the Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. 

First Year Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for UG Course

Listed below in the table are the Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus for 1st and 2nd semesters.

Semester 1Semester 2
Introduction to Food and NutritionMaternal and Child Care
Food and NutritionPersonal Development
Communication SkillNutritional Biochemistry
Human PhysiologyPublic Health and Nutrition
Food ChemistryHuman Nutrition
Computer Fundamental

Second Year Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for UG Course

Listed below in the table are the Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus for 3rd and 4th semesters.

Semester 3Semester 4
Food MicrobiologyFood preservation
Industrial management and Facility PlanningBasics of Bakery and Confectionary 
Food Quality and AnalysisFood Science
Family Meal Planning

Third Year Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for UG Course

Listed below in the table are the Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus for 5th and 6th semesters.

Semester 5Semester 6
Dietetics 1Food service Management 
Ethics and EnvironmentFood Biotechnology
Food Packaging and Marketing ManagementDietetics 2
Diet and Patient CounsellingInternship

Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for PG Course

Candidates can check the postgraduate Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus below.

First Year Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for PG Course

Listed below in the table are the Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus for 1st and 2nd semesters.

Semester 1Semester 2
Food ScienceDiet therapy II
Nutraceuticals and functional foodsAdvanced Nutrition I
Nutrition through developmental stagesHuman Rights
Diet Therapy ICommunity Nutrition

Second Year Nutrition and Dietetics Syllabus for PG Course

Listed below in the table are the Nutrition and Dietetics course syllabus for 3rd and 4th semesters.

Semester 3Semester 4
Nutritional management safety for food scienceFinancial and food management
Advanced Nutrition Clinical Nutrition 
Computer Application Dissertation
InternshipExamination
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Nutrition and Dietetics Subjects

Nutrition and Dietetics subject lists differ from college to college but there are some major Nutrition and Dietetics course subject lists that are common in most of the Nutrition and Dietetics colleges and universities. The students can check the Nutrition and Dietetics subject list given below.

Nutrition and Dietetics Subjects 
Principles of NutritionQuantity Food Service and Physical FacilitiesEnvironmental Studies
Community NutritionFood ScienceFundamental Computer Concepts and Windows
Food MicrobiologyFood Service ManagementHuman Physiology
Post-Harvest TechnologyChemistryDietetics
Family Meal ManagementBiochemistryFood Quality Control
Food Preservation

General Core Subjects for Dietetics and Nutrition

While the subject lists for nutrition and dietetics courses vary from college to college, most nutrition and dietetics colleges and universities share a few key lists. Below is a list of nutrition and dietetics courses for the convenience of the students.

Subject titleSubject Details
Principles of NutritionThe definition of nutrition and the vital nutrients that make up our food and give us energy will be covered for candidates. As you read this chapter, you will gain knowledge about the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good habits and behaviours.
Quantity of Food Service and Physical FacilitiesQuantity food preparation is the process of preparing food in larger amounts than usual for a large gathering. It's widely used to serve patients in healthcare and assisted living facilities in addition to catering events.
Food MicrobiologyThis course covers the features of microbial development along with extrinsic and internal influences.
Environmental StudiesEnvironmental science encompasses the study of Earth's natural processes—physical, chemical, and biological—as well as the social, political, and cultural aspects of human activity that affect the environment.
Fundamental Computer Concepts and WindowsStudents will learn the fundamentals of computers, their role in society, and how to use word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, and Internet applications.
Human PhysiologyThis field of study makes use of fundamental science to assess how individuals respond to both internal and external stimuli (such as changes in activity levels, various environmental conditions, and disease processes). It then applies this understanding to advance human well-being.
ChemistryChemistry is the study of matter and its transformations. Science defines molecules, nanostructures, and extended solids and describes their properties, functions, and processes.
DieteticsDietetics is the scientific study of how food and diet affect health. Degree programmes in this area teach you about disease, nutritional requirements, metabolism, and other topics by drawing on subjects like physiology and sociology.
Post-Harvest TechnologyFood storage systems; horticultural crops' maturation and senescence; Horticultural crops are treated to maintain quality and stop fruit and vegetable deterioration and decay after harvest. Fruit and vegetable processing (value-added products, dehydration, freezing, and canning).
Family Meal ManagementA family meal management strategy includes meal planning that meets each member's nutritional needs, food selection, accomodation of dietary preferences, age-appropriate healthy diets, and cost, energy, and time savings.
BiochemistryBiochemistry is the study of living things through the integration of chemistry and biology. It propels advances in science and medicine across a range of fields, including nutrition, forensics, and medicine. Understanding the universe and developing new uses for chemical reactions can be achieved through studying biochemistry, which studies chemical reactions at the molecular level.
Food Quality ControlThis subject typically covers topics such as nutrition and food commodities, food chemistry, food microbiology, sanitation & hygiene, preparation & packaging materials, food analysis, adulteration & testing, food toxicology, etc.
Food PreservationThe process of eliminating or inhibiting the growth of germs in food in order to preserve it for consumption in the future is known as food preservation.

General Elective Subjects for Dietetics and Nutrition

Following are the elective subjects that the candidates need to opt for along with their core subjects.

DegreeSubject titleSubject Detail
UG Analytical SkillsAnalytical skills are the application of basic mathematical concepts to the efficient analysis of data by prioritising tasks and managing time.
Bakey TechnologyProvide details on how hygienic and safety measures are used in bakery operations, along with an introduction to basic baking terminology.
Baking Technology LaboratoryGive students hands-on experience in physio-chemical analysis and food preservation.
Cereal and Millets: Preparation and UtilizationDescribe the steps involved in grinding grains and millets, the various applications for them, and the uses for their byproducts.
Cereal and Millets: Preparation and Utilization LaboratoryProvide students with hands-on training in food preservation and physio-chemistry analysis.
Confectionary TechnologyTeach culinary products, such as chocolate, confections, and compound coatings, the fundamentals of physical chemistry and its laws of motion.
Confectionary Technology LaboratoryProvide students with hands-on instruction in food preservation and physio-chemical analysis.
Food Hygiene and SanitationThis course focuses on how food safety protects consumers from foodborne illnesses. Food safety includes all methods of removing physical, chemical, and biological hazards.
Food Hygiene and Sanitation LaboratoryProvide students with hands-on experience conducting the tests necessary to protect food and food ingredients from contamination by pests, chemicals, microorganisms, and other unwanted substances during handling, storage, and transportation.
Fruits and vegetables: Preparation and UtilizationIt is emphasised how important it is to use fruits and vegetables when preparing food and processing goods.
Fruits and vegetables: Preparation and Utilization LaboratoryProvide hands-on instruction in the production and preservation of products made from fruits and vegetables.
Health FoodsThe course will cover the recently emerging field of nutraceuticals, including types, mechanisms of action, manufacturing processes, product development, clinical testing, and toxicity considerations.
Health Foods LaboratoryThe course will cover the recently emerging field of nutraceuticals, including types, mechanisms of action, manufacturing processes, product development, clinical testing, and toxicity considerations.
Milk and milk products: Preparation and utilizationFocus on the processing, handling, and consumption of milk and milk products
Milk and milk products: Preparation and utilization laboratoryProcess milk and milk products by hand and test their quality.
Pulses and Oilseeds: Preparation and utilizationOutline the requirements for grain quality, the grain composition of key grains, pulses, and oilseeds, as well as how to grow and use cereals and pulses.
Pulses and Oilseeds: Preparation and utilization laboratoryProvide hands-on experience with physico-chemical analysis of oil seeds and pulses.
PGClinical NutritionThe prevention, diagnosis, and management of nutritional changes in people with chronic illnesses and disorders constitute the main foci of clinical nutrition.
Clinical Nutrition LaboratoryIn this lab course, students will learn how to design dietary plans for therapeutic purposes.
Food MicrobiologyIn addition to the characteristics of microbial growth and the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic factors and microbial growth, this course covers topics such as pathogenic microorganisms, infection, and intoxication. The principles of food fermentation and the role of beneficial microbes are also covered.
Food Microbiology LaboratoryIn this lab course, students will learn how to test specific foods and their microbiology.
Food Product DevelopmentProvide knowledge about various technologies used in the production of food products.
Food Product Development LaboratoryThis course focuses on the skills required to create innovative food products.
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Specialization offered in Nutrition and Dietetics

The Nutrition and Dietetics Course is becoming popular and students are willing to pursue this course in multiple specializations. Most of the universities are offering specializations in the field of nutrition and dietetics looking at the popularity of the course. The course is being offered at undergraduate and postgraduate level and there are many specializations under both the categories. One can choose specializations as per their interest and choice. Some of the common types of specializations that are offered by most of the private and government colleges are mentioned in the table given below.

Specialization courses at graduate level

Specialization courses at postgraduate level

Clinical Nutrition

Public Health Nutrition

Applied Nutrition

Clinical Nutrition

Renal Nutrition

Gerontological Nutrition

Home Science

Sports Nutrition/Dietetics

Nutrition and Dietetics

Pediatric Nutrition

Food Science and Nutrition

Food Science/Technology

Dietetics

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Nutrition and Dietetics Entrance Exam Syllabus

Nutrition and Dietetics admission also takes place through various entrance examinations conducted by the colleges and universities. There is no single or specific examination conducted for nutrition and dietetics courses. The students take admission on the basis of marks obtained in class 12th for graduation courses and marks obtained at graduate level for postgraduate courses. 

Most of the top colleges in India take admission to different specializations through merit based and the marks obtained in the qualifying examination decide the selection process. The cut off marks for talking admission in nutrition and dietetics ranges from 50% to 80-90% in top colleges. However, there are many colleges that take admission through entrance examinations. Some of the entrance examinations conducted for taking Nutrition and Dietetics admission are mentioned below which students can check and prepare for the same accordingly. 

Entrance ExamDetailsSyllabus
CUETThe Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG 2024) is an all-India test for admission to courses at 45 Central Universities in India. It is also accepted by other State Universities and Deemed universities in India.Syllabus of CUET UG 2024
LPUNESTLovely Professional University conducts National Entrance and Scholarship Test annually for admission to different courses at undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered by the university. Syllabus of  LPUNEST
MDU CEEMDU CEE entrance exam is conducted by Maharshi Dayanand University. 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 level by Maharshi Dayanand University. Syllabus of MDU CEE
KCETKCET stands for Karnataka Common Entrance Test which is conducted annually by Karnataka Examination Authority. KCET provides admission to different courses including nutrition and dietetics in different colleges and universities that come under Karnataka Common Entrance Test. Syllabus of KCET
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Nutrition and Dietetics Important Books

Books play a very important and significant role in the development of a candidate as an individual. It also helps them to grab the right information without any confusion. Nutrition and dietetics is an emerging course and the students are willing to pursue this course from many leading organizations. They must have an idea about the important books of the Nutrition and Dietetics course subjects so that they not only excel during the duration of the course but also perform well for different competitive examinations related to nutrition and dietetics. 

There are hundreds of books available in the market that deal with nutrition and dietetics courses but students must choose their books wisely after consulting their faculties so that they don’t make mistakes in selecting the appropriate book. The students can also prepare for higher education and subsequently plan to do PhD especially if they want to explore their career in academics. Books play a significant role in shaping prospects and honing research skills among different levels of students who wish to pursue courses related to Nutrition and dietetics. Some of the common, popular, and recognized books of Nutrition and Dietetics courses subjects are listed below. 

Important Books Authors
The Lifestyle DietRohini Patil
AliveRachna Chhachhi
The Science of Nutrition: Debunk the Diet Myths and Learn How to Eat Responsibly for Health and HappinessRhiannon Lambert
Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food Catherine Shanahan
Advanced Nutrition and Human MetabolismJack Smith, Sareen Gropper
Nutrition and Dietetics for Health CareHelen M. Barker
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Nutrition and Dietetics Course Structure

The Nutrition and Dietetics Course syllabus is structured as per the requirements of the industry. The structure of the course mainly depends on the level of the course which the students desire to do. Overall, the course is designed with a perspective to give exposure to students about both core and elective subjects. While core subjects are compulsory subjects, elective subjects can be opted by the students as per their interest. The aspirants of this course are trained in a real life atmosphere along with the regular classroom lectures. The course allows the students to do an internship during their summer break if they are pursuing this course at graduate or postgraduate level. The course is divided into 6 semesters for a 3 years duration if one takes admission at the graduate level. 

Further, the same course is split into four semesters for postgraduate students. The duration of the diploma courses vary from 1-2 years depending upon the institute. The course is also structured keeping in mind the interest of the students and all important nutrition and dietetics syllabus has been taken into consideration for defining the course structure at different levels. The basic overview of Nutrition and Dietetics course is mentioned below:

  • Core and Elective subjects
  • 6 semesters & 8 Semesters for UG and PG students respectively
  • Practical classes
  • Case Studies
  • Internships
  • Projects
  • Research
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Top Nutrition and Dietetics Colleges in India

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. 

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FAQs about Nutrition & Dietetics Syllabus

What are the best Nutrition and Dietetics colleges?

The best colleges for Nutrition and Dietetics are -Maulana Azad Medical College, New DelhiQuantum University, RoorkeeUniversity of Kashmir, SrinagarMount Carmel College Lady Irwin College, New DelhiBanasthali University, JaipurShoolini UniversityLovely Professional University, JalandharShree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, GurgaonChandigarh University

What is the average Nutrition and Dietetics program course fee ?

The Nutrition and Dietetics average course fee varies from college to college as the fee structure of government college is very less as compared to private university. But, the average Nutrition and Dietetics fee is Rs 50,000 per annum.

What is the average placement package after pursuing a Nutrition and Dietetics course?

The average package after completing a Nutrition and Dietetics course is Rs 4– Rs 6 lakhs per annum . However, it also depends on company standards and work experience.

What are the entrance examinations that are being taken for Nutrition and Dietetics admission?

The entrance examinations for Nutrition and Dietetics courses are LPUNEST, CUCET, KCET, MDU CEE, etc

What are some of the major Nutrition and Dietetics course subjects?

The Nutrition and Dietetics course subjects are mentioned below -Principles of NutritionEnvironmental StudiesQuantity Food Service and Physical FacilitiesFood Service ManagementHuman PhysiologyFood Quality ControlFood Preservation

Is the Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus tough?

Nutrition and Dietetics syllabus is easy. Students find Nutrition and Dietetics subjects easy to understand and interesting too.

What is the percentage that is considered good in a Nutrition and Dietetics course?

In the Nutrition and Dietetics course anything above 80% is considered good as students are considered eligible for taking admission in higher education.

What can be done if I fail in the Nutrition and Dietetics course?

If the students fail in a Nutrition and Dietetics course then there is always an option to appear for back papers by giving supplementary or compartmental examinations.

Does a Nutrition and Dietetics course have a good scope in future?

Nutrition and Dietetics course is a career oriented profile and students get placed in multiple organizations after completing BSc courses. The students enhance their skills by doing an MSc course in nutrition and dietetics. There are many organizations that deal exclusively with the field of nutrition and dietetics and provide career opportunities in the areas such as government and private hospitals, private health organizations, sports organizations, celebrity management organizations, research centres, etc. Most of these organizations look for skilled nutritionists and dieticians for their respective department.

What is the course duration of Nutrition and Dietetics ?

The Nutrition and Dietetics has bachelors degree and master's degree. BSc Nutrition and Dietetics course duration is 3 years and MSc Nutrition and Dietetics is 2 years.

What are the skills required to pursue a Nutrition and Dietetics course?

The skills required for Nutrition and Dietetics are as follows - Analytical SkillsCommunication SkillsResearch SkillsPatienceInterest in Food PreparationHealth Management Skills

What are the job prospects of a Nutrition and Dietetics course?

There are various job roles for Nutrition and Dietetics courses. Following are some of the profiles that nutritionists and dietitians can seek:ConsultantsFood Show HostResearcherTherapeutic DietitianSports NutritionistAdministrative NutritionistNutritional Sales ExecutiveNutrition Trainer
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