Dietitians are qualified healthcare professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat dietary and nutritional problems. In South Africa, a BSc Dietetics (4 years) is required, followed by registration with the HPCSA. Dietitians work in hospitals (clinical dietetics), community health settings, sports nutrition, food industry, and private practice. South Africa's high burden of diabetes, obesity, and malnutrition creates strong demand.
Dietitians assess patients' nutritional status, design individualised meal plans, counsel patients with diabetes or obesity, advise sports teams on nutrition, review and approve menu plans for hospitals or schools, and conduct community nutrition education.
Life Sciences (Level 5+), Mathematics (Level 4+), Physical Sciences (Level 4+), English (Level 4+)
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- North-West University (NWU)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Achieve APS 26+ with Life Sciences, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences. BSc Dietetics is offered at UCT, UP, Stellenbosch, UKZN, UFS, and NWU.
Complete the 4-year BSc Dietetics degree including clinical placements in hospitals, community health centres, and food service facilities.
Complete community service, register with HPCSA, and specialise in clinical nutrition, sports dietetics, paediatric nutrition, or community nutrition.
What APS do I need for Dietetics?
What do dietitians earn in South Africa?
Is Dietetics a good career in South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.