Become a Nutritionist

Experts in diet and food science, nutritionists use evidence to give advice on health and wellbeing. If you want to pursue a career as a food industry specialist or sports nutritionist, build your skills with our online nutrition courses.

What skills do you need to become a nutritionist?

  • Scientific skills

    Evidence and scientific knowledge are the foundation for any nutritionist. An understanding of human biology, chemistry and food science is important, as well as knowledge of how to interpret and present data. A short online course can help with all of these.

  • Empathy and understanding

    As a qualified nutritionist or dietitian you’ll be working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds, and in a range of settings. Being understanding and caring of their situations with the passion to motivate them to change habits is crucial.

  • Specialisms

    Nutrition is an umbrella term that covers many disciplines - from food nutrition to nutrition science, public health nutrition and sports nutrition. Take a short course in the subject to find out which is right for you.

  • Communication

    Nutritionists often work side by side with other healthcare professionals such as GPs, dietitians and nurses. Collaborating on research, messaging or individual care is a key part of any nutritionist job.

What does a professional nutritionist say?

What do people say about these nutritionist courses?

"There is a plethora of information regarding nutrition, food and health available, and people look to nutritionists to be able to correctly interpret this information. Strong communication skills are imperative, as well as the ability to balance your knowledge of nutrition and health with the unknown, and provide clear information to others."

"This course punches above its weight! I've enjoyed it so much. You managed to cover a lot of topics of interest regarding nutrition, diet and exercise in a dynamic and vibrant way. I appreciate the research-based information and advice. The resources supplied are generous and comprehensive."

The benefits of taking nutritionist courses online with FutureLearn

Learn online, around the world

Develop valuable skills with a short, online nutritionist course wherever you are. Start learning for free, on desktop, tablet or mobile.

Buy a course upgrade or subscribe to Unlimited for extra benefits

Buy a course upgrade for ongoing access to the course content, tests, and the chance to gain a Certificate of Achievement. Subscribe to Unlimited for access to hundreds of short courses and the ability to keep access to courses you gain a certificate on.

Meet nutritionist experts

Learn with experts from top international universities. Learn with nutritionists all over the world.

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