Career guide

Nutritionist

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Advises on food and eating for health - in communities, food companies, sport or public health programmes. Distinct from a Dietitian, who treats patients clinically.

This career needs Core Mathematics.
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for it at South African universities. This choice is made in Grade 9, for Grade 10 — and it is very difficult to reverse later. If this career is on your list, take Core Mathematics.

School subjects

Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy), Life Sciences and Physical Sciences are usually required.

How you qualify

A BSc in Nutrition (NQF 7), 3 to 4 years. Note the distinction: a Nutritionist and a Dietitian are separate registration categories with the HPCSA, and clinical work with patients requires the Dietetics route including an internship and community service. Choose the degree that matches the work you want. Registration with the HPCSA is compulsory. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Public universities; HPCSA registration compulsory (Nutrition and Dietetics are separate categories)

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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