Nutrition Science is the study of food, eating, dietary concerns and health issues surrounding food and medicine. It is a broad field that covers aspects of chemistry, biology and the social sciences with many areas to specialise in. These areas include food and wellness, community nutrition, exercise science, and nutrition education. Nutrition science also includes the study of behaviours and social factors related to food choices.
Dieticians and nutritionists are experts in the use of food and nutrition to promote health and manage disease. They advise people on what to eat to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal.
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering Nutrition Sciences courses in the following subject areas:
There are many Nutrition Sciences courses that take place over 1 year to 4 years depending on the course and modules selected. There are also part-time courses and night courses available so you can be sure to fit in your studies no matter what your schedule is like.
Courses will cover theory work through lectures, assignments, tutorials and taught modules. Assessments will take place on a continuous basis with written examinations and practical assignments combined in order to achieve a qualification.
Work experience will help you to decide which area of nutrition you want to concentrate on, you could also consider work experience or volunteering in the industry, in healthcare or with a research body. Experience of working in the community with a food bank, for example, could be helpful and you may find relevant opportunities with charities and not-for-profit organisations.
You could also get some work in a related food area such as food technology, product development or food safety and then move into a nutrition role.
Work Experience will not only give you the opportunity to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, it will also give you a chance to do some essential networking with other industry professionals and gain valuable contacts for the future
After completing a course in Nutrition Sciences you will be able to get started in a career that uses specific knowledge of Nutrition and the chemistry and biology of food.
There are different types of nutritionist work and you will usually have to choose to specialise in one or two of the following areas: sports and exercise nutrition, public health nutrition, nutrition science, food science/industry, animal nutrition and healthcare or medical.
Nutritionists are employed by a range of public and private sector organisations in areas such as food policy development, specific food issues or areas, public health, food industry, government, research, sports, weight management and weight loss, specific client groups, international aid like emergency relief or development projects in low-income countries.
Research work can be based in laboratory, community, clinical or classroom conditions. Freelance and consultancy work is an option in both the public and private sectors once you've gained experience.
Working hours will depend on whether you are employed by a company with set business hours or if you are contracted to various facilities or companies. The hours are usually full time, Monday to Friday, although you may need to be flexible and work some evenings or at weekends. If working on a freelance basis, you'll typically work flexible hours that will regularly include evenings and weekends.
If you work in the community, you may need to travel within the local area to children's centres, nurseries and schools, GP surgeries and community centres. If you are working as a sports nutritionist, you may need to travel to accompany sports professionals on training camps and tournaments.
After completing a course in Nutrition Sciences you may choose to pursue further study in a specialist field to increase your knowledge base and skillset. Postgraduate study can also be used as a means to change career focus or to gain professional qualifications required to practise in certain career areas such as animal nutrition, global/international nutrition, food science or sports nutrition.
Why is Nutritional Science important?
Nutritional science has a major impact on public health by identifying and allowing for education on optimal nutrient intake. A healthy diet throughout life promotes normal growth, development and ageing, helps to maintain healthy body weight, and reduces the risk of chronic disease leading to overall health and well-being.
What skills could be helpful for a career in Nutritional Science?
Skills that could be useful for a career in Nutrition include an aptitude for science, passion, enthusiasm and empathy, the ability to encourage and motivate others, proficiency in data research, evaluation and reporting.
Skills that employers across all industries look for in candidates include: effective team working skills, the capability to multitask and work independently, time management skills and good communication skills including verbal, presentation and written.
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