In today's health-conscious era, nutrition and dietetics professionals have become a cornerstone in promoting overall well-being. The nutrition and dietetics course offered in several Kenyan higher learning institutions delves into the intricate science of nutrition, exploring the impact of dietary choices on human health. So, is nutrition and dietetics marketable in Kenya?
In Kenya, selecting a good course will enhance your career prospects. With emerging sectors and a changing job market, choosing a marketable course is a proactive step towards securing a rewarding and long-lasting professional future.
What is nutrition and dietetics?
Nutrition and dietetics, a medicine sub-discipline, is the science that focuses on everything related to food and its effects on our health and overall well-being. Nutrition and dietetic professionals aim to improve people's health and guide them in making better dietary choices. They also help patients find a balance between exercising and good eating habits.
In addition, nutrition and dietetics apply to various sciences, but the two most popular specialisations are chronic illnesses and weight control.
How to become a certified nutritionist in Kenya?
To become a certified nutritionist in Kenya, one must have a certificate, diploma or bachelor's degree and a license. You'll also typically be required to have supervised training through an internship. Here are the minimum requirements to join a nutrition and dietetics programme in Kenya.
Certificate
- KCSE mean grade D (plain) with a D (plain) in English, chemistry/physical sciences and biology/biological sciences. Other subjects: D (plain) in physics, math, agriculture and home science
Diploma
- KCSE means grade C- (minus) with a D+ in English, chemistry/physical sciences, and biology/biological sciences. Other subjects: D (plain) in physics, math, agriculture and home science
Degree
- KCSE mean grade C+ (plus) with a C+ in chemistry, biology, physics/mathematics, English/Kiswahili
- Ordinary diploma in nutrition and dietetics/nutrition and food sciences from a recognised institution and duly registered with KNDI
Where can you work with certificate in nutrition?
Nutritionists and dietitians work in many settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Here are jobs/ places you can work with a certificate, diploma or degree in nutrition.
- Ministry of Health as a clinical dietician, clinical nutritionist, community nutritionist, or public health nutritionist
- County nutritionists
- Foodservice diet therapist
- Nutrition/dietetics private practitioner
- Food manufacturing industries
- Nutrition scientists for research institutions
- Teaching, e.g. in TVET institutions and universities
- NGOs such as UNICEF, World Vision, etc.
Nutritionist salary per month
How much do nutrition and Dietetics jobs pay in Kenya? According to mywage.org/Kenya, the majority of nutritionists and dietitians earn a salary of between Ksh36,896 and Ksh131,780 monthly. But after years of experience – 5+ years, their income increases to between Ksh52,223 and Ksh130,063 monthly.
Are nutritionists in high demand in Kenya?
Indeed, there is a growing demand for nutritionists at present. In the past, only a small number of Kenyans utilized the services of nutritionists and dietitians. However, these professions have gained significant recognition, with an increasing number of individuals aspiring to adopt healthier lifestyles and a rise in lifestyle diseases among Kenyans.
FAQs about nutrition and dietetics course
- Is nutrition and dietetics in high demand? Yes, the prevalence of co-morbidities, diseases and related conditions has increased the demand for clinical nutritionists and dietitians’ services across the country.
- Does KMTC offer nutrition? Yes, almost all KMTCs offer the nutrition course. The department trains community nutritionists who educate members on ideal diet, nutrition and food selection.
- Where do most dietitians work? Dietitians and nutritionists work in many settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, cafeterias, clinics and local governments.
- Can dietitians have tattoos? Yes, but even if the position allows you to have tattoos, ensure you dress professionally for an interview or while at work. Wear minimal jewellery and keep large tattoos covered.
- Which course is best, dietician or nutritionist? Both courses are excellent options, but if your goal is to specialize and diagnose and treat clients in a clinical setting, pursuing a career as a dietitian would be a more suitable choice.
- Which is the best country to study nutrition and dietetics? The United States is the best place to study nutrition because of its top universities. They offer over 135 nutrition and dietetics programs.
- How long does certificate in nutrition take? A certificate in nutrition and dietetics takes two years.
Final word on nutrition and dietetics course
Is nutrition and dietetics marketable in Kenya? Yes, the nutrition and dietetics course is marketable. Lately, there has been an explosion of interest in dietitians in hospitals, companies, NGOs, etc. Some organisations have even created full-staffed departments to offer educational programs on health subjects like heart disease and diabetes. You can also start your private practice.
Tuko.co.ke has shared an article about the most marketable courses in Kenya. After completing secondary education, there are numerous higher learning institution options to choose from: technical institutions, colleges or universities.
Whatever the case, your course will determine how easily you'll get a well-paying job. So, what are the most marketable courses in Kenya? Read this article for more information.
