Academic Programmes

What can I do with my degree?
The qualified dietitian registers with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Once registered, she/he can practise nutrition care, including nutrition counselling in hospitals and clinics as a member of the health care team. Preventive nutrition care can also be provided to the public by means of nutrition education about healthy eating habits and the prevention of nutrition-related diseases. Particular challenges exist in the context of primary health care, where the dietician is involved at grass roots level. The Department of Health acts as a major employer in this regard.

The dietitian in private practice provides nutrition counselling to patients referred by a medical doctor. Normal nutrition, for example sports nutrition, also presents exciting opportunities for consultation. He or she can also offer his/her expertise to other private companies, such as the pharmaceutical industry.

A career in dietetics also offers opportunities to develop and unfold managerial skills. The food service systems dietician, for example, manages the large-scale food service unit, whereas the experienced clinical dietician is in charge of the clinical nutrition service offered by a hospital. Quality assurance is important in this regard.

What are the admission requirements?

Applications close on 31 May each year.
For more information on admission requirements, please click here for the Faculty Brochure.

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