Nutrition and Dietetics stands out as one of the most esteemed academic disciplines, offering an array of promising opportunities. Securing admission is not competitive but there is still the need to grasp the entry requirements carefully.
This course welcomes both O’Level and Direct Entry students. O’Level applicants must submit their WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results, while Direct Entry candidates can seek admission with qualifications such as National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a Bachelor’s degree. It is imperative to meticulously scrutinize these prerequisites to gain a comprehensive understanding before applying.
What is Nutrition and Dietetics?
Nutrition and Dietetics is all about understanding how food affects our health and using that knowledge to help people make better food choices. Dietitians, or nutritionists, work with individuals or groups, providing personalized advice, creating meal plans, and even supporting patients in healthcare settings. They’re like health detectives, figuring out what your body needs and helping you eat in a way that keeps you healthy. Whether it’s counseling, community programs, or even managing food services, these professionals play a crucial role in promoting well-being through smart eating.
Why Should I Study Nutrition and Dietetics as a Course?
Choosing to study Nutrition and Dietetics provides the opportunity to promote health, offers diverse career paths in a growing field, allows for a positive impact on people’s lives, fosters continuous learning, and contributes to both personal and professional growth while addressing global health concerns.
Note: Please be aware that the requirements listed below may vary in some schools. In such cases, referring to the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for accurate information is recommended.
O’Level Requirements to Study Nutrition and Dietetics
To be eligible for admission into a Nutrition and Dietetics program at a university in Nigeria, you must have obtained at least five credits in subjects including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, either Agricultural Science, Biology, or Home Economics, and any other science subject, preferably Physics, at the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent.
Direct Entry Requirements to Study Nutrition and Dietetics
- At least 2 ‘A’ level passes in Chemistry, Agricultural Science or Biology, Physics or Home Economics.
- NCE credit/merit and ND credit in addition to five (5) credit in SSC or equivalents
- National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant programmes with either an upper or lower credit respectively.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit.
Jamb Subject Combination for Nutrition and Dietetics
- English
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Any other Science subject
Universities that Offer Nutrition and Dietetics
- WESLEYUNI: Wesley University of Science and Technology (Ondo, Ondo State)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Nutrition and Dietetics a Science course?
Yes, Nutrition and Dietetics is basically a Science course. In most Nigerian Universities, the course falls under the Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology.
Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Nutrition and Dietetics?
No, individuals with a Commercial or Arts background will not have the opportunity to study Nutrition and Dietetics as the course requires a foundation in relevant science subjects. However, those with a keen interest in pursuing this field, regardless of their background, should thoroughly review the specific entry criteria of the university they intend to apply to. Some institutions may outline specific subject requirements for admission, and prospective candidates can locate this information in the special consideration section of the Brochure.
What Jobs can I apply for after studying Nutrition and Dietetics?
Upon completing a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, you can pursue various rewarding career paths. Some potential job positions include Clinical Dietitian or Nutritionist in healthcare settings, Community Nutritionist working with public health agencies, Sports Nutritionist supporting athletes, Corporate Wellness Coordinator designing workplace wellness programs, Researcher in Nutrition Sciences contributing to knowledge advancement, Food Service Manager overseeing meal planning, Public Health Nutritionist addressing community health, Nutrition Educator in educational institutions, Consultant in Private Practice offering personalized counseling, and Nutrition Writer or Blogger sharing expertise online.
How many years does it take to Study Nutrition and Dietetics?
Completing a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics usually takes a minimum of four years. However, direct entry students may have a shorter duration, typically around three years, as they often start at the 200 Level.
How challenging is it to gain admission to study Nutrition and Dietetics at Nigerian universities?
Securing admission into the Nutrition and Dietetics program is not that competitive, but it is very important to have exceptional academic achievements, particularly in important science subjects. This evaluation includes success in entrance examinations like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and, in certain instances, post-UTME screenings administered by specific universities.
What is the cut-off mark for Nutrition and Dietetics?
Applicants who achieve a JAMB UTME score of at least 140 are qualified to take part in the POST UTME examination as part of the criteria for admission to pursue their chosen courses in the respective universities.
Note: Understand that the conditions mentioned above might differ in some universities. In such instances, it is advisable to check the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for precise details. You can also access Jamb Subject Combination for other courses.
