Are you passionate about healthy living, food science, and helping others achieve wellness through nutrition? A career in Nutrition or Dietetics allows you to make a real difference by improving public health and promoting better eating habits. South African universities offer excellent programmes that combine science, health, and food studies — preparing graduates to become professional dietitians, nutritionists, or health consultants.
Here’s a full guide to where you can study Nutrition and Dietetics in 2026 across leading South African universities — including Nelson Mandela University (NMU), North-West University (NWU), Stellenbosch University (SU), University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Western Cape (UWC), University of Limpopo (UL), University of Pretoria (UP), and University of Venda (UNIVEN).
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Location: Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Eastern Cape
Faculty: Health Sciences
NMU’s Department of Dietetics is known for producing competent nutrition professionals who work across hospitals, research institutions, and community health sectors.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics)
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (Extended Curriculum Programme)
The course includes human nutrition, food science, biochemistry, and community nutrition, with strong practical training in hospitals and public health facilities.
2. North-West University (NWU)
Location: Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, Vanderbijlpark
Faculty: Health Sciences
NWU offers one of South Africa’s top-ranked dietetics programmes.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics)
Students learn the science behind nutrition, diet planning, and therapeutic diets, preparing for careers in hospitals, schools, food industries, or research.
3. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Faculty: Medicine and Health Sciences
Stellenbosch University is highly respected for its evidence-based approach to health education.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics) – 4 years
This degree focuses on nutrition science, human metabolism, and diet therapy, integrating theory with clinical placements in hospitals and communities. Graduates qualify for registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as dietitians.
4. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Faculty: Health Sciences
UCT’s Division of Human Nutrition offers advanced, research-driven training in the field of dietetics and nutrition.
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSc Dietetics)
Students receive clinical, community, and research exposure to tackle real-world nutrition challenges, from malnutrition to lifestyle diseases.
5. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Location: Bellville, Western Cape
Faculty: Community and Health Sciences
UWC’s School of Public Health focuses on community nutrition, food policy, and dietetics.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics)
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BSc Nutrition)
These degrees prepare students to work in clinical dietetics, nutrition research, public health, or the food industry. UWC’s programme also includes community outreach, where students apply knowledge in real health settings.
6. University of Limpopo (UL)
Location: Mankweng, Limpopo
Faculty: Health Sciences
UL’s Dietetics programme trains students to improve health through nutrition science and food management.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics)
The degree covers food service management, clinical nutrition, and community nutrition, ensuring graduates can work across hospitals, NGOs, and private practice.
7. University of Pretoria (UP)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Faculty: Health Sciences
UP’s Department of Human Nutrition is among the most established in the country.
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics (BSc Dietetics) – 4 years
This qualification emphasises clinical nutrition, therapeutic diets, food service systems, and research methodology. Graduates are eligible for HPCSA registration and can pursue careers in medical nutrition therapy, community nutrition, and academia.
8. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Location: Thohoyandou, Limpopo
Faculty: Health Sciences
UNIVEN’s nutrition programme addresses the region’s growing demand for qualified health professionals.
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BSc Nutrition)
The degree equips students with expertise in food science, human physiology, and diet planning, enabling them to work in both clinical and community nutrition settings.
Why Study Nutrition or Dietetics in South Africa?
- Growing Health Demand: Rising lifestyle diseases increase the need for qualified dietitians.
- Diverse Career Paths: Work in hospitals, research, food manufacturing, schools, or private practice.
- Scientific Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of biochemistry, physiology, and food science.
- Global Recognition: Graduates can register with the HPCSA and work locally or abroad.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can work as:
- Registered Dietitians
- Nutrition Consultants
- Clinical or Community Nutritionists
- Food Service Managers
- Health and Wellness Coaches
- Public Health Nutrition Researchers
Final Thoughts
A career in Nutrition and Dietetics allows you to transform lives through the science of food and health. Whether you’re drawn to community nutrition, hospital dietetics, or the food industry, these South African universities provide top-tier programmes designed to help you make a meaningful impact.
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