Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Health Sciences and Social Services - Preventive Health
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification in Dietetics and Nutrition
Purpose
The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with a comprehensive education in the science of Dietetics and nutrition. It equips them with the knowledge, theory, and practical skills to apply this science to improve the health and nutritional status of individuals and groups. The qualification aims to empower learners to take initiative and responsibility in academic or professional settings to influence food-related behaviors.
In addition to the core areas of Dietetics (therapeutic Dietetics, community nutrition, and food service management), the qualification also focuses on developing skills in communication, management, and research. Dietary modification for nutrition-related medical conditions is a significant aspect of Dietetics. For example, Dietitians work with healthcare professionals to ensure patients unable to consume food orally receive necessary nutrition through alternative means like a nasogastric tube. Registered Dietitians offer specialized services in managing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, oncology, pediatric nutrition, and more.
This qualification prepares learners for entry into the workforce, further studies, or professional practice in the following categories:
- Clinical Dietitians: Providing personalized nutrition therapy in healthcare settings.
- Community Nutrition Dietitians: Working in wellness programs, public health agencies, and more to prevent diseases.
- Food Service Dietitians: Planning and implementing large-scale menu plans in various institutions.
Rationale
The Health Professions Council of South Africa requires individuals to complete a four-year qualification in Dietetics to practice as registered Dietitians. This qualification aims to train Dietitians to work in both clinical and community settings, addressing various health conditions and disease prevention. Dietitians play a crucial role in ensuring optimal nutrition for patients, especially in the face of disease burdens and malnutrition.
Malnutrition is a significant factor in childhood mortality and overall disease burden. Nutrition interventions are crucial in preventing and treating various health conditions, making the training of Dietitians a national priority. This qualification also aims to develop research skills to address key nutritional issues in South Africa, ultimately improving the health system and reducing healthcare costs.
Employment opportunities for Dietitians are abundant in both public and private healthcare settings, highlighting the importance of this qualification. By improving the nutritional status of the population, the burden on the healthcare system can be minimized, leading to better health outcomes and reduced costs associated with medical care.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate ability to conduct screening, needs assessment and situation analyses.
- Demonstrate ability to plan, implement, and evaluate and document nutrition service delivery.
- Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively.
- Demonstrate ability to manage systems relevant to Dietetics and Human Nutrition.
- Demonstrate ability to conduct and write about research.
- Demonstrate professionalism.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Correctly identifies, selects and applies relevant tools and processes
- Accurately interprets results
- Consolidates results in a professional report
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Able to select, plan, implement, monitor, evaluate, and document appropriate intervention strategies
- Collaborate with stakeholders
- Facilitate participation in addressing community nutrition issues
- Establish equipment and materials required in various settings
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Communicate effectively with individuals and groups at different levels
- Communicate with various cultural, social, educational, political, and economic contexts
- Use a variety of media
- Communicate in a variety of settings
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Select and apply appropriate management tools and processes
- Plan, organize, lead, control, and evaluate systems and processes
- Relevant to a variety of health clients
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Conduct critical review of literature
- Design and conduct primary research
- Analyze and draw conclusions from data
- Document the process and results in an appropriate written document
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Apply standards of practice and professional ethics
- Function constructively in a team or a group
Integrated Assessment:
- Exit-Level Outcomes prescribed by a professional body
- Evaluation of qualification every five years
- Modules collectively address the outcomes
- Formative assessments through reports and assignments
- Summative assessment through exams and final research report.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.