Career Guide: How To Enrol Into Dietician And Nutrition Courses After Class 12? – News18

Last Updated:March 12, 2025, 16:48 IST

To become a dietician or a nutritionist, a 12th-grade education in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, securing at least 50% marks, is essential.

A career in nutrition and dietetics is a booming opportunity for those interested in food and health. With a 12th-grade science background, individuals can pursue certificate courses to become certified nutritionists. Home science graduates also have excellent prospects in this field, with potential roles as health inspectors.

Dietitians play a crucial role in assessing and addressing patients’ nutrition-related concerns. They develop personalised diet plans and provide guidance on healthy eating habits.

Courses To Opt For

Aspiring dieticians can choose from various certificate, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes. Certificate courses in Nutrition and Food Science, typically ranging from three months to a year, provide a foundation in the field.

Bachelor Courses: B.Sc in Food and Nutrition is an excellent option for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the field of nutrition and dietetics. Other bachelor’s degree courses include Food Science and Processing, Food Science, and Microbiology.

PG Courses: Postgraduate options include diplomas and certificates in Food Science and Public Health Nutrition, as well as Dietetics and Nutrition.

Reputed institutions like IGNOU, the National Institute of Nutrition, Calcutta University, Delhi University, the Central Food Technologist Research Institute, and the Indian Council of Medical Research offer specialised programmes in this domain.

Who Can Opt For This Course?

To enter this profession, a 12th-grade education in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, securing at least 50% marks, is essential.

Furthermore, essential skills for aspiring dieticians include a passion for food and its components, excellent interpersonal skills, and a strong understanding of health and nutrition.

Job Opportunities

Dieticians find employment opportunities in healthcare centers, canteens, nursing homes, educational institutions, catering departments, hotels, food research labs, childcare centers, beauty clinics, fitness centers, and government organizations. The field offers diverse career paths including:

Clinical Nutritionists: They work in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, creating diet plans for patients with specific health conditions.

Management Nutritionists: These experts work in clinical and food science settings, providing training to other nutritionists. They also offer dietary counseling and mental support to patients.

Community Nutritionists: Employed by government health agencies, fitness centers, and daycare centers, they focus on the nutritional well-being of communities.

Salary Expectations

Starting salaries for trainee dieticians range from Rs 15,000 to 20,000 per month. With two-three years of experience, earnings can reach Rs 30,000 to 50,000 per month. Established dieticians have the potential to earn lakhs of rupees per month.