Quick Summary
Nutritionists are key to promoting healthier lifestyles, mainly as poor eating habits and stress contribute to health issues. With a shortage of 2.36 lakh dietitians in India, the demand for nutrition experts is rising. To become a nutritionist, earn a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics (3-4 years), followed by a master’s or certifications for specialization. Practical experience and knowledge in food science, biochemistry, and human physiology are essential. Stay updated on trends, network, and join associations for growth in this rewarding career.
Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics, then a master’s or specialized certifications. Gain practical experience through internships. To understand how to become a nutritionist in India, stay updated with nutrition trends, and connect with professionals in the field.
Here are the essential steps to follow on how to become a nutritionist in India –
Candidates should have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board with a background in science (Biology/Physics/Chemistry) or Home Science. Some courses may specifically require Biology as a subject.
Next, you have to enroll in a bachelor’s program, like a BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, at a recognized institution. This 3-4 year course equips you with foundational knowledge about human nutrition. Once you graduate, you can further specialize with a Master’s degree. Completing your education is the first crucial step towards becoming a nutritionist in India.
To become a registered dietician and understand how to become a nutritionist in India, you must clear the Indian Dietetic Association entrance exam. There are specific requirements for you to take the exam. You must have completed or are pursuing a postgraduate degree in food and nutrition. Additionally, you should also complete an internship of 6 months. Upon clearance, you can obtain or renew special certifications. Renewal should be done once every 2 years.
Most of these programs require hands-on experience. Internships are the best way to earn initial experience in dietetics. You can do internships either during the coursework or after graduation. Often, people choose to do multiple internships in various specialties. This will help in understanding areas you are comfortable working in.
Several food, nutrition, and dietetics programs in India offer many opportunities for those interested in the field. These programs provide the knowledge and skills needed to work as a nutritionist in various sectors. If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in India, enrolling in these courses is a great way to start. Understanding how to become a nutritionist in India can open many career paths in healthcare and wellness.
Here are some of the best nutrition courses to guide you on how to become a nutritionist in India:
BSc (Nutrition & Dietetics) is a 3-year undergraduate program that features studies on nutrition and diet-related reviews, providing essential knowledge for those interested in becoming a nutritionist in India. It also involves clinical research and case studies. Clinical Nutrition focuses on therapeutic uses of nutrition in the medical field. This may include disease prevention, improving the immune system and body nourishment, etc. Consultants, Researchers, and Therapeutic Dieticians have preferred job roles in this field.
Course Duration: 3 to 4 years
Curriculum:
A Master’s in Clinical Nutrition offers in-depth training in clinical nutrition and provides opportunities to work on clinical studies. After completing the course, you can pursue roles like Lecturer, Community Dietician, or Clinical Dietician. If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in India, this advanced degree can help. Learning how to become a nutritionist in India opens various career paths. Understanding how to become a nutritionist in India is key to success in this field.
Course Duration: 2 years
Curriculum:
As more people recognize the importance of proper nutrition, many sports and fitness centers are hiring nutritionists. This course teaches practical skills in dietetics and health nutrition. If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in India, this course is a great starting point. Understanding how to become a nutritionist in India involves gaining knowledge and hands-on experience. Learning how to become a nutritionist in India opens up exciting career opportunities.
Course Duration: 1 year
Curriculum:
This express course is a shorter course on basic nutrition and dietetics concepts. It will enable you to learn the basics of nutrition and the dietary requirements for proper weight management, serving as a helpful step for those exploring how to become a nutritionist in India.
Course Duration: 6 months to 1 year
Curriculum:
Note: Course details can differ between colleges. It’s important to pick a college that matches your career goals and interests in the nutrition field.
Also Read: Top 8 best career options in India
The table below lists the top courses to help you become a certified nutritionist. These courses are essential for anyone exploring becoming a nutritionist in India. By pursuing a degree in nutrition or dietetics and additional certifications, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Understanding how to become a nutritionist in India opens up career opportunities in health and wellness.
| Course Name | Provider | Description |
| Precision Nutrition Level 1 | Precision Nutrition | Teaches the fundamentals of nutrition coaching, suitable for beginners looking to enter the field. |
| NASM Nutrition Coach | NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) | It focuses on integrating nutrition coaching into fitness training, which is ideal for fitness professionals. |
| Coursera Nutrition Specialization | Coursera | Offers a series of courses covering various aspects of nutrition, with a certificate upon completion. |
| ISSA Nutritionist Certification | ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) | A comprehensive program for aspiring nutritionists, covering a wide range of nutrition topics. |
| AFPA Nutrition & Wellness Consultant | AFPA (American Fitness Professionals & Associates) | Provides a holistic approach to nutrition, suitable for those wanting to help people with overall well-being. |
| Udemy Nutrition Courses | Udemy | Offers a variety of nutrition-related courses from different instructors, catering to different needs. |
The following are some of the best Indian colleges offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses on how to become a nutritionist. These institutions provide excellent programs in nutrition and dietetics, helping students gain the necessary knowledge and skills. If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in India, enrolling in one of these colleges will give you the right foundation to pursue a successful nutrition course in the field of nutrition and health.
AIIMS is a premier institution offering comprehensive nutrition courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It focuses on nutrition’s clinical and scientific aspects, preparing students for careers in clinical dietetics, research, and public health nutrition.
AIIMS offers both undergraduate and postgraduate nutrition programs. For the B.Sc. program, candidates must have completed 10+2 with science subjects. Doctoral programs require a relevant Bachelor’s degree.
AIIMS is a prestigious institution known for its medical and healthcare programs. The nutrition courses here provide in-depth knowledge and practical training, preparing students for diverse careers in nutrition and dietetics.
Affiliated with Delhi University, Lady Irwin College specializes in home science education, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Food and Nutrition. It emphasizes practical training, research, and community engagement in the nutrition field.
For the B.Sc. program, candidates need to complete 10+2 with the science subjects. Postgraduate programs require a relevant Bachelor’s degree.
Lady Irwin College is well-regarded for its home science and nutrition programs. With experienced faculty and a comprehensive curriculum, students receive a strong foundation in nutrition science and its applications.
SNDT Women’s University is a distinguished institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate food science and nutrition programs. Its comprehensive curriculum equips students with a strong foundation in nutritional sciences and practical skills.
The eligibility criteria vary depending on the program. Generally, a background in science is preferred for undergraduate courses, and a relevant Bachelor’s degree is required for postgraduate courses.
SNDT Women’s University pioneered women’s education and offers diverse nutrition programs. Their courses focus on practical skills and experiential learning, preparing students for various roles in the nutrition field.
Linked to Delhi University, this institute offers programs in home science, including Food and Nutrition. It imparts deep insights into nutritional principles, food technology, and dietary management, preparing students for diverse nutrition-related roles.
Eligibility requirements differ for each program. Generally, a science background is preferred for undergraduate courses, and a relevant Bachelor’s degree is necessary for postgraduate courses.
Institute of Home Economics is known for its quality education in home science and nutrition. The programs emphasize hands-on training and practical exposure, making graduates industry-ready.
Nirmala Niketan College excels in offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Nutrition and Dietetics. The institution places significant emphasis on fostering healthy lifestyles and nutritional awareness among students, paving the way for success in various nutrition-focused professions.
Eligibility criteria vary for different courses. Generally, a science background is preferred for undergraduate courses, and a relevant Bachelor’s degree is required for postgraduate courses.
Nirmala Niketan College is renowned for its home science and nutrition programs. The courses are designed to provide a strong theoretical foundation along with the practical skills needed for a successful career in nutrition.
Becoming a nutritionist offers many rewarding career opportunities in the health, wellness, and food industries. By understanding how to become a nutritionist in India, you can work in hospitals, clinics, fitness centers, or even as a private consultant. Learning how to become a nutritionist in India opens doors to helping people lead healthier lives while building a successful and fulfilling career in the growing field of nutrition and dietetics.
Here are some options that one can pursue after understanding how to become a nutritionist in India:
Clinical nutritionists work in hospitals or clinics, helping patients with specific dietary needs or health conditions.
Skills Required: Knowledge of medical nutrition therapy, understanding of health conditions, and communication skills.
Clinical Nutritionist Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition or dietetics, registration with a relevant professional body.
Community nutritionists focus on promoting health in communities through education and programs.
Skills Required: Public speaking, program planning, interpersonal skills.
Community Nutritionist Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition and communication skills.
Sports nutritionists provide athletes with specialized diets to enhance performance and recovery.
Skills Required: Knowledge of sports nutrition, understanding of different sports, and communication skills.
Sports Nutritionist Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition, specialized training in sports nutrition.
Corporate Wellness Nutritionists work in companies to improve employee health through wellness programs.
Skills Required: Program development, communication skills, understanding of workplace health.
Corporate Wellness Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition, corporate wellness knowledge.
Research Nutritionists conduct studies to advance nutritional knowledge and contribute to research projects.
Skills Required: Research skills, data analysis, critical thinking.
Research Nutritionist Qualifications: Master’s or higher degree in nutrition, research experience.
Entrepreneurial nutritionists start their own nutrition consulting practice or online platform.
Skills Required: Business acumen, marketing skills, networking.
Entrepreneurial Nutritionist Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition, entrepreneurship skills.
Strong communication skills, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others are crucial for excelling in these careers. A solid educational foundation in nutrition or dietetics is also important, along with continuous learning to stay updated with the latest research and trends in the field. Depending on the specific career path, additional certifications or training might be beneficial for career growth.
The salary of a trainee working in a hospital starts at Rs. 10,000 per month, but with one year of experience, it can increase to Rs. 35,000. In India, a nutritionist’s annual salary, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, is approximately Rs. 1,15,299. However, those working in private clinics as nutritionists or dietician consultants have varying salaries. These salaries largely depend on their expertise, skills, and reputation in the industry. For instance, experienced nutritionists in high-demand clinics can earn significantly more based on their client base and professional recognition.
Salaries mentioned are as per Glassdoor, Ambitionbox
Professionals in the education and research sector enjoy great perks and a handsome salary. As for nutritionists and dietician consultants in private clinics, their salaries and benefits depend on their skills and reputation. If you’re wondering how to become a nutritionist in India, it typically involves studying nutrition or dietetics. Understanding how to become a nutritionist in India requires gaining experience and knowledge. Learning how to become a nutritionist in India opens doors to many opportunities.
To conclude, becoming a nutritionist in India is a rewarding journey that combines education, practical experience, and continuous learning. By pursuing a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics, students can specialize in various fields like Clinical Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Food Science, and Sports Nutrition. With the growing demand for health professionals in the country, a career as a nutritionist offers vast opportunities to contribute to healthier lifestyles and make a meaningful impact on society.
Therefore, nutritionists are a great medical career option without NEET. A BSc in Nutrition is the ideal paramedical course for you to start your journey as a dietitian.
Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive into our guide on Career Advice.
Several undergraduate, postgraduate, and certification nutrition courses are available in India. B.Sc and M.Sc in Nutrition and Dietetics, B.Sc and M.Sc in Clinical Nutrition, and PG Diploma and Public Health are some of the popular courses. You need to pass the certification courses to start practicing as a nutritionist.
Yes, scholarships at New York University are offered based on the CSS profile. Submit this before the deadline. You can also avail few scholarships and grants through the Office of International Affairs.
Yes, Indian students can study nutrition and dietician courses abroad. Some of the universities even provide scholarships and grants. Top nutrition and dietician schools from around the world include
1. New York University (NYU)
2. University of North Carolina (UNC)
3. Ohio State University
NEET is a national-level exam for students aspiring to pursue a career in the medical field. However, it is not required for admission to a BSc in Nutrition or Dietetics course. Instead, these courses typically have their own entrance exams or offer direct admission based on academic qualifications.
After completing 12th grade, a student can pursue a B.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics, followed by an M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics. The M.Sc. program offers four key specializations: Clinical Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Food Science and Technology, and Sports Nutrition.
Becoming a nutritionist in India typically takes around 3 to 5 years. This includes completing a 3-year B.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics, followed by a 2-year M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics for those pursuing advanced specialization.
Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
