Careers in Dietetics: advice from the BDA

Dietetics is an extremely varied and exciting profession.

Dietitians are the only qualified health professionals that assess, diagnose and treat diet and nutrition problems at an individual and wider public health level. Uniquely, dietitians use the most up-to-date public health and scientific research on food, health and disease, which they translate into practical guidance to enable people to make appropriate lifestyle and food choices. Dietitians are the only nutrition professionals to be statutorily regulated and governed by an ethical code, to ensure that they always work to the highest standard.

If you are interested in people, food, science and medicine and want a job which offers a wide range of possibilities and the opportunity to excel, becoming a dietitian is the ideal career.

• Introduction.
• Dietetics as a Career:
  There are a wide range of job roles and specialisms within dietetics.  In this section find out more about their role and where dietitians work. Includes a free Careers Leaflet for teachers and lecturers.
• Studying to be a dietitian:
  To qualify as a dietitian you are required to undertake an approved programme at a university.  Further information on entry requirements, course content and student profiles can be found in this section.
• Where to study:
  A list of undergraduate and postgraduate courses that lead to qualification as a dietitian and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). 
• Dietetic Support Worker:
  A dietetic support worker has an important role to play within the dietetic workforce. Find out more about how to apply for roles and career prospects.
• International: dietitians and students:
  If you are looking for further information on working in the UK as a dietitian or completing your studies in the UK, read this section in further detail.
• FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions:
  Questions and answers about a career in dietetics including the difference between dietitians and nutritionists.