Course summary

Dietetics is the interpretation and communication of the science of nutrition to enable people to make informed and practical choices about food and lifestyle in both health and disease. Dietitians promote good health through appropriate nutrition. They work with individuals with special dietary needs, inform the general public about nutrition, evaluate and improve treatments and educate patients, doctors, nurses and other health professionals. The role of the dietitian is changing rapidly with increasing emphasis on working in the community as well as in hospitals. Dietitians also have a role in research, education, industry and the media where there is an increasing demand for good quality nutrition and dietetic education. Dietetic practice is based on a range of academic disciplines which are required to ensure that graduate dietitians have the level of skill required to deliver excellent nutritional advice and care. The University of Hertfordshire is the first UK university to award academic credit for dietetic practice placements. Practice placement opportunities are offered in the NHS (acute and community), as well as in non-NHS settings. In addition, the University of Hertfordshire is one of few in the UK offering Dietetics over 3 years rather than 4 years. Dietitians are employed in the NHS in both hospital and community settings. Additionally, they work in sports nutrition, food industry, charities, education and research or on a freelance basis. On graduation you are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).