How to Become a Dietitian in India (2024)
In today's hectic lifestyle, prioritizing health often takes a backseat, leading to long-term health issues. Recognizing the importance of a well-rounded diet plan, individuals are increasingly turning to dieticians and nutritionists for guidance.
Aspiring students passionate about nutrition can embark on a rewarding career in India. Whether you question eating habits, check nutritional content, or enjoy educating others about proper nutrition, a career as a dietician is fitting.
This blog guides you on how to become a dietitian after 12th, and the qualifications to kickstart a fulfilling nutrition career.
What is a Dietitian?
Dietitians, also known as medical dietitians, specialize in recognizing and treating disease-related malnutrition, offering medical nutrition therapy for conditions like cancer cachexia, or creating enteral tube feeding schedules.
They work in hospitals, conducting nutritional assessments when a doctor or nurse requests intervention.
Now how to become a dietitian in India? So one needs a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nutrition, including clinical rotations. And how to become a dietitian in a hospital? Aspiring dietitians can follow structured degree plans or independently request clinical rotations to pursue a rewarding career in hospitals.
How to become a Dietitian?
Here are the steps to becoming a dietitian in India:
- Identify Skills: If aspiring to become a Dietitian in India, essential skills include scientific curiosity, communication, interpersonal management, teamwork, time management, and computer proficiency.
- Pursue Formal Training/Course: Complete a 10+2 education in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Explore Dietitian entrance exams and enroll in Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs such as BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics or MSc in Food Science and Nutrition.
- Pursue an Internship: Mandatory internships for a minimum of six months provide practical job exposure and skill enhancement.
- Pursue Certification Course: Opt for specialized certification programs to deepen knowledge in areas like Diet Management in Health and disease.
- Create A Resume: Build a comprehensive and appealing resume showcasing qualifications and internship experiences.
- Landing A Job: Apply for Dietitian positions on job platforms, attend interviews, and select the most suitable job offer to commence your career.
Exploring dietitian courses, how long it takes to become a dietitian, and dietitian course eligibility can provide additional insights into the profession.
How to become a Registered Dietitian (RD)?
To be recognized as a dietitian, obtaining an undergraduate degree and postgraduate diploma is essential. Conversely, achieving the title of a dietitian requires registration with the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA) after passing the admission test.
Eligibility for the exam mandates completion of either a Post Graduate Diploma in Nutrition & Dietetics or an M.Sc. in Food & Nutrition, followed by a 6-month post-graduation internship.
The test comprises two papers, covering topics such as human physiology , biochemistry, food microbiology, and diet therapy, emphasizing the comprehensive knowledge required for nutrition and dietetics professionals.
Top Dietitian Colleges in India
Explore renowned institutions offering courses in food and nutrition, from B.A., B.Sc. to PG Diploma and M.Sc. programs:
1. Lady Irwin College (New Delhi)
2. Institute of Home Economics (New Delhi)
3. SNDT Women’s University (Mumbai)
4. Women’s Christian College (Chennai)
5. All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health, Nirmala Niketan (Mumbai)
This list represents a diverse array of educational opportunities you can find on Docthub.com and apply to these courses.
Career Scope of Dietitian in India
The career scope of dietician in India is promising, offering diverse opportunities in the healthcare, wellness, and nutrition sectors. Dietitians play a pivotal role in designing personalized nutrition plans, catering to individuals' health needs.
They find employment in hospitals, health clinics, fitness centers, and wellness organizations. Job profiles range from clinical dieticians managing patients' nutritional programs to community dieticians promoting healthy lifestyles.
The average annual dietitian salary in India ranges from ₹2 to ₹3 lakhs. The scope of dietician in India encompasses contributing to public health, preventing diseases, and positively impacting individuals' well-being, making it a rewarding and impactful career choice.
A career as a dietitian in India offers a broad scope and lucrative salary prospects and you can find dietitian colleges in India on Docthub.com.
FAQs
1. Which degree is best for a dietitian?
For a dietitian, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics or a related field is the most suitable educational path.
2. Can a BA student become a dietitian?
Yes, a BA student can become a dietitian by pursuing a postgraduate degree or diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics or a related field.
3. Do dietitians need NEET?
No, dietitians do not require NEET as the NEET exam is specifically for medical and dental courses.
4. How do I start a dietitian career?
You can start your dietitian career by applying for a dietitian course from Docthub.com.
5. What is the highest-paying dietitian job?
The highest-paying dietitian job is often in specialized areas such as chief clinical dietitian, registered dietitian, sports nutrition, clinical dietetics, or private consulting.
