The British Dietetic Association (BDA) Industry Specialist Group brings together dietitians who are passionate about shaping the future of our profession across the dynamic world of industry.
As nutrition and food systems continue to evolve, so too do the opportunities for dietitians to make an impact beyond traditional clinical and community settings.
We are committed to expanding practice-based learning (placement) opportunities within industry to support the next generation of dietitians.
By creating more student placements, we aim to provide real-world exposure to commercial, product development, regulatory, communications, and marketing environments - allowing students to apply and grow their dietetic skills in new and exciting contexts.
These experiences not only strengthen professional confidence but also broaden career pathways.
Together, we’re working to ensure that future dietitians feel empowered, informed, and inspired to pursue a career in dietetics that they are passionate about and contribute to a rapidly changing food landscape.
Are you thinking about providing a student placement?
Taking on a dietetic placement offers organisations a valuable opportunity to benefit from fresh perspectives, while allowing students to apply their skills in real-world projects that support your team’s goals.
Whether it's hosted virtually or in person, providing a placement also helps strengthen the future workforce by shaping confident, capable dietitians who understand the realities of industry - and it can highlight your organisation as a leader in supporting professional development and innovation.
Watch the videos below to hear from UCL and HRS Communications about the value of their student placement partnership.
Commonly asked questions
What is the typical duration of student placements, and is there a limit on unpaid time?
Placement durations are flexible (e.g., 2-7 weeks; part-time) and based upon the criteria set out by individual universities. Be aware that anti-modern slavery guidelines may limit unpaid placements to under two weeks for some companies.
What is the expected time commitment for your staff?
Staff time is required for initial training, general guidance, and conducting formal end-of-week reviews with the student to monitor progress.
What are the key benefits for your company in hosting a student?
With a student dietitian, expect to gain fresh perspectives, build a talent pipeline for future recruitment, and increase team productivity by having assistance with projects!
What essential skills can your company expect students to bring?
Students bring strong communication, problem-solving, and the ability to work autonomously on project briefs, along with current scientific knowledge.
How will a non-clinical placement ensure the student meets their core academic outcomes?
The placement is designed to satisfy the professional skills component of the degree. Universities use hybrid or role-emerging formats to balance industry exposure with required clinical competency.
Will the student's university provide you with a single point of contact for support?
Yes. A dedicated Placement Lead from the university will be your point of contact for support, queries, and learning outcome clarification.
Will students be able to meet the necessary competencies in placements outside of a clinical setting?
Yes! The new BDA Common Assessment Tool provides increased flexibility in terms of learning outcomes and is relevant to a variety of placement settings.
How do students benefit from placement experience in a non-traditional setting?
Experience in both clinical and industry placements can provide a strong portfolio and skills for various future career settings.
Watch the video below to hear from Carolina Tato, Student Officer, on the BSIG Committee, about her industry placement. Carolina contributed as a science communicator in the food industry producing research-based infographics, blogs and social media content for the public and healthcare professionals. As a result, the placement enhanced her communication skills, digital proficiency and gave her a new perspective on her future career as a dietitian.
Get in touch to find out more
If you'd like to understand the next steps involved in setting up a student placement, reach out to [email protected]. We can guide you through every step of the process, including identifying universities currently seeking placement providers, clarifying key dates, and outlining learning requirements, ensuring you feel fully supported and ready to get started.