Diploma in Human Nutrition
OR
Prepared by Docthub Courses Team ∣
Last updated on 14 Oct 2026
Overview
The Diploma in Human Nutrition under the specialty of Dietetics and Nutrition is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and its impact on human health. The duration of the program is generally 6 months but may vary depending on the institute offering the program. The curriculum includes modules like Fundamentals of Nutrition, Diet Therapy, Public Health Nutrition, Food Safety & Quality, etc.
Table of Content
What is a Diploma in Human Nutrition?
A Diploma in Human Nutrition is a short-course academic award that aims to learn about human dietary requirements, the nutritional content of foodstuffs, and their contribution to overall health. The syllabus consists of fundamental principles of nutrition, clinical dietetics planning, and public health nutrition. It gives students with the ability to access nutritional requirements and provide evidence-based dietary advice.
Highlights
Particulars | Details |
Course Name | Diploma in Human Nutrition |
Course Type | Diploma Program |
Duration | 1 to 2 years |
Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent (preferably science stream) |
Admission Process | Merit-based; some institutes may conduct entrance exams or interviews |
Fees | ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 (varies by institution) |
Colleges in India | 1. IGNOU – Indira Gandhi National Open University 2. VLCC Institute of Beauty and Nutrition 3. SNDT Women's University, Mumbai 4. National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad 5. Tamil Nadu Open University 6. Dr. B. Lal Institute of Biotechnology, Jaipur 7. Amity University, Noida |
Job Roles | Nutrition Assistant, Junior Dietitian, Wellness Coach, Nutrition Counselor |
Eligibility
Candidates should have completed 10+2 from a known board. Though students from any stream can apply, students from science streams like biology or home science will be able to understand the course more easily.
Duration
Course duration typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, based on the structure of the curriculum and mode of delivery of the institution.
Fees
The fee varies from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000, which will depend on the college, location, and amenities provided.
Who Is Suitable for This Course?
This course is suitable for those who are interested in nutrition and health sciences. It also fits those who want to become nutrition counselors or wellness coaches. Health enthusiasts who want scientific knowledge on diet can also benefit from this program. Allied health professionals who want to reskill in nutrition are ideal candidates as well.
Why Obtain a Diploma in Human Nutrition?
Learning nutrition assists in gaining knowledge on how food intake influences human health. This course becomes more pertinent in the modern world where lifestyle diseases are on the increase. It leads to job opportunities in the healthcare, wellness, public health, and food sectors.
Entrance Exams
Admission is mostly on the basis of Class 12 marks. A few private institutes might have entrance tests or personal interviews for selection.
Admission Process
- Submission of Application: Application must be made by the candidate through the concerned institute's application procedure (online/offline).
- Selection: Admission is usually on merit, with certain institutes holding entrance tests.
- Verification: Academic documents are checked.
- Admission: Candidates secure admission by paying the applicable fee.
Syllabus
The curriculum generally includes the following subjects:
Year/Semester | Core Topics Covered |
Semester 1 | Basics of Nutrition Nutrient Biochemistry: Human Lifecycle Nutrition Food Hygiene and Safety Public Health Nutrition |
Semester 2 | Nutrition for Special Groups[ Therapeutic Diets and Clinical Applications Meal Planning and Diet Counseling Nutrition Communication Skills Clinical Nutrition and Practical Training |
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FAQS
Top Colleges Offering This Course
Major institutions which provide this diploma are:
- IGNOU – Indira Gandhi National Open University
- VLCC Institute of Beauty and Nutrition
- SNDT Women's University, Mumbai
- National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad
- Tamil Nadu Open University
- Dr. B. Lal Institute of Biotechnology, Jaipur
- Amity University, Noida
Career Scope
Students who have graduated in this course can do the following jobs:
- Clinical and hospital settings
- Community health organizations
- Fitness centers and wellness clinics
- Public health departments
- NGOs focused on nutrition and health
Further Education Options
After completing this diploma, learners may consider:
- B.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics
- B.Sc. in Food and Nutrition
- Postgraduate Diplomas in Clinical or Sports Nutrition
- M.Sc. in Nutrition (after completing a bachelor’s degree)
Career Opportunities
Job roles available to diploma holders include:
- Nutrition Assistant
- Junior Dietitian (under supervision)
- Health & Wellness Coach
- Community Health Worker
- Nutrition Counselor
- Food Quality Analyst
Salary
Starting salaries usually are between ₹2 LPA to ₹3.5 LPA based on work environment and designation. With increasing experience and additional specialization, up to ₹6–8 LPA can be earned.
Is this an useful course to pursue a health and nutrition career?
Yes, this diploma provides practical skill sets and background knowledge appropriate for entry-level employment in health, nutrition, and wellness industries.
Will I become registered dietitian with this diploma?
No. To be a licensed dietitian in India, one needs a bachelor's degree in dietetics or nutrition and an approved internship.
Does applying require a science background ?
Not always. Science knowledge is helpful, but students from any stream can apply if they have the 10+2 eligibility.
What types of jobs can I obtain after this course?
You may find employment as a diet assistant, nutrition teacher, or wellness counselor in hospitals, NGOs, or fitness centers.
Is it possible for me to study this diploma by distance?
Yes, institutes such as IGNOU and Tamil Nadu Open University provide distance or online mode for this course.
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Qualifications
12th Arts
12th Science PCB