Bachelor of Science Dietetics with Honors

OVERVIEW

The Bachelor of Science (Dietetics) with Honours programme at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) aims to produce highly skilled and knowledgeable dietetics professionals in the fields of nutrition and health. This programme provides students with a strong theoretical foundation in nutrition science, physiology, biochemistry, and other core areas of dietetics, while emphasising practical applications in both clinical and community settings.

Throughout the programme, students will have the opportunity to undergo comprehensive practical training in hospitals, communities, and the food industry. This training is designed to equip students with the essential skills to deliver medical nutrition therapy and provide safe, effective, and evidence-based dietetic services.

The programme places great importance on developing ethical and professional dietitians who are well-prepared to lead in various health sectors. It is fully recognised under the Allied Health Professions Act 2016 (Act 774).

PROGRAMME EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVE (PEO)

Programme Educational Objectives (PEO) is to produce Dietitians who:

1. Are knowledgeable, skilled, and professional in leading the field of dietetics.
2. Are capable of applying entrepreneurial and research aspects innovatively using the latest technology in the field of dietetics.
3. Demonstrate sociocultural competency in delivering sustainable dietetic services.

CURRICULUM STRUCTURE

The Bachelor of Science (Dietetics) with Honours programme at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is conducted over eight (8) semesters, comprising a total of 140 credit hours, which include:

• 2 credits for co-curricular courses

• 1 additional credit for a General Studies (MPU) course on Integrity and Anti-Corruption

• 30 credits for Industrial Training

• 6 credits for the Undergraduate Dissertation

• 8 credits for elective courses

This structure meets the minimum programme standard set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), which requires a minimum of 136 credit hours.

Course Categories

Courses in this programme are divided into three (3) main categories as prescribed by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA):

a) University Courses (Compulsory Module)

This module consists of university-mandated courses, including:

• Humanities courses aimed at nurturing values, ethics, and morality

• Courses designed to develop communication skills, essential for students' career development

b) Core Module

This module comprises three components:

1. Basic Science Module
   Provides foundational knowledge in science and medicine such as anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and biochemistry, which are essential before undertaking professional modules.

2. Professional Module
   Focuses on developing knowledge and specific skills in the field of dietetics.

3. Industrial Training Module
   According to MQA standards, 28–30 credit hours (21–22% of total programme credits) must be allocated to this module.
   The MQA standard equates 1 credit hour to 40 hours of practical work.

   Industrial training includes:

   • Clinical Placement – 20 credits (800 hours)

   • Community Dietetics Placement – 4 credits (160 hours)

   • Food Service Management Placement – 4 credits (160 hours)

   Students will undergo 1,200 hours of Dietetic Professional Practicum (DPP), which integrates theoretical learning with hands-on experience across various settings including:

   • Hospitals

   • Government and non-governmental agencies

   • Institutional food service systems

   • Long-term healthcare facilities

   The practicum is conducted under the supervision of certified dietitians and faculty lecturers.

c) Elective Module

This module offers elective courses that provide added value to students and support the application of knowledge in dietetics.

For more information:

• CURRICULUM STRUCTURE

• STUDY SCHEME

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (LOCAL APPLICANTS)

STPM, Matriculation, Foundation, STAM, Diploma

General University Requirements

Specific Programme Requirements

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS)

General University Requirements

Specific Programme Requirements

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates of the UPM Dietetics Programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors related to health, food, and nutrition. Popular career pathways include:

• Hospitals & Clinics

Clinical Dietitians in specialized areas such as Renal Nutrition, Paediatrics, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and more.

• Community Health

Planning and managing diets for specific populations, including the elderly and those in rehabilitation centres.

• Food Services

Involved in food operations management, food safety, and nutritional compliance within institutions such as schools, hospitals, and catering services.

• Academia & Research

Serving as lecturers or researchers in universities and nutrition institutions.

• Independent Dietitians or Freelance Dietitians

Providing consultation services independently or via digital platforms.

• Blending Knowledge with Practice

With 1,200 hours of practical training, UPM graduates are well-prepared to compete both locally and internationally

Updated:: 21/04/2025 [m_sharfizam]