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Introduction

Department of Dietetics
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Universiti Putra Malaysia

Introduction

The Department of Dietetics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, originated as a unit under the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics and has since grown into a dedicated department reflecting the rising significance of clinical nutrition and dietetic sciences. The undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Dietetics with Honours program began in the 2005/2006 academic session, followed by the introduction of postgraduate programs at the Master and Doctor of Philosophy levels in Clinical Nutrition. These programs are designed to meet national and global demands and continue to attract highly competitive applicants—underscoring their reputation for academic excellence and graduate employability.

Following the establishment and full operation of Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (HSAAS), the Dietetics Unit was officially upgraded to the Department of Dietetics on 1st October 2020. This strategic elevation has reinforced the department’s academic and clinical functions, especially in supporting HSAAS through integrated roles in patient care, clinical services, food service management, and student clinical training.

The Department of Dietetics operates as an integrated academic-clinical department, leveraging a Blue Ocean Strategy that is unique in Malaysia. This integrated structure has strengthened the synergy between teaching, research, and service, and serves as a model for clinical nutrition education nationwide. All academic staff are also practicing clinical dietitians who contribute actively to patient care in HSAAS, ensuring that their academic delivery is grounded in real-world practice and evidence-based.

The department is proud to be one of the core clinical contributors at HSAAS, with lecturers and clinical dietitians directly involved in inpatient and outpatient care, nutrition-focused research, and evidence-based dietary interventions. Beyond clinical settings, the department is also actively engaged in community nutrition initiatives, industry partnerships, and international academic collaborations, affirming its relevance in both public health and private sectors.

Vision

To be a center of excellence in dietetics education, research, and professional practice—recognized globally for advancing human health through innovation and impact.

Mission

To empower future-ready dietitians and advance dietetics knowledge through excellent academic programs, impactful research, and professional services that uphold integrity, sustainability, and diversity.

The Department is also committed to delivering accurate, high-quality, and up-to-date dietary services, guided by scientific evidence, national health priorities, and advancements in nutrition science and digital technology. This is achieved through a dedicated team of experienced educators, clinical dietitians, and researchers who ensure that students are professionally trained and that services rendered meet the highest standards of care.

With consistently high graduate demand, strong stakeholder endorsement, and growing international recognition, the Department of Dietetics is proud to be one of the top dietetics programs in Malaysia, and a leading contributor to the development of dietetic practice in the ASEAN region.