

B-SC-CLINICAL-NUTRITION in General at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research


Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai?
This B.Sc. Clinical Nutrition program at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research focuses on the science of food and its relationship to health and disease management. It emphasizes medical nutrition therapy, dietary counseling, and public health nutrition, preparing students for critical roles in healthcare. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for qualified nutrition professionals in the Indian health and wellness sector, addressing diverse nutritional challenges across the population.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates passionate about human health, diet, and disease prevention, seeking entry into the specialized field of dietetics. It also suits individuals aspiring to work in hospitals, wellness clinics, public health organizations, or food industries. Students with a strong foundation in biology and chemistry and a desire to improve community health through nutrition will find this course highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including clinical dietitians, nutrition counselors, public health nutritionists, and food service managers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program equips students with the skills for various roles, aligning with the increasing awareness and demand for professional nutritional guidance in India''''s healthcare landscape.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Scientific Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Build a strong foundation in Human Anatomy & Physiology, Biochemistry, and Food Science. Regular revision, making concept maps, and understanding the ''''why'''' behind biological processes are crucial. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts.
Tools & Resources
Anatomy 3D apps (e.g., Complete Anatomy), Biochemistry textbooks (Lehninger), YouTube channels for visual learning (e.g., Osmosis, AK Lectures), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid scientific base is fundamental for understanding clinical nutrition concepts later, crucial for accurate diagnosis and dietary recommendations in future roles as a dietitian.
Develop Foundational Practical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions for Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Food Science. Focus on accurate lab techniques, data recording, and interpretation. Practice identifying food components and understanding their properties.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Online practical demonstration videos, Seeking guidance from lab instructors
Career Connection
Proficiency in lab techniques is essential for future research roles and for understanding food quality and safety in professional practice.
Enhance Communication & Basic Computer Literacy- (Semester 1-2)
Prioritize improving English communication skills for effective patient interaction and report writing. Master basic computer applications like MS Word and Excel, which are indispensable for data management, presentations, and professional documentation.
Tools & Resources
English grammar apps, Online typing tutors, Microsoft Office tutorials, Active participation in class discussions
Career Connection
Strong communication is vital for counseling patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. Computer skills are essential for managing patient data and creating educational materials.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge through Case Studies & Diet Planning- (Semester 3-5)
Engage deeply with case studies in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. Practice formulating personalized diet plans for various conditions, considering cultural and economic factors prevalent in India. Seek feedback from professors on your therapeutic nutrition approaches.
Tools & Resources
Clinical nutrition textbooks, Indian Food Composition Tables, Online diet planning software trials, Hospital diet charts (for reference)
Career Connection
This hands-on application is directly relevant to becoming a competent clinical dietitian, enabling effective patient care and dietary management in hospitals and clinics.
Gain Early Industry Exposure via Internships/Volunteering- (Semester 3-5)
Look for opportunities to volunteer or undertake short internships in local hospitals, wellness centers, or community health programs. Even observing experienced dietitians can provide invaluable insights into real-world challenges and professional practices in India.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Networking with alumni, Local hospital HR departments, NGOs working in public health
Career Connection
Early exposure builds practical skills, develops a professional network, and clarifies career aspirations, significantly enhancing employability and placement prospects.
Develop Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on understanding research methodologies and biostatistics. Actively participate in minor research projects or data analysis exercises. This critical thinking ability will be crucial for evidence-based practice and evaluating nutritional interventions.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software tutorials (e.g., basic R or Excel for stats), Research papers from national nutrition journals (e.g., Indian Journal of Nutrition), University library resources
Career Connection
Research skills are vital for staying updated with the latest nutritional science, contributing to public health initiatives, and excelling in academic or research-oriented roles.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Clinical Dietetics Internship/Project- (Semester 6)
Approach the mandatory internship or project with utmost dedication. Actively engage in patient assessments, diet counseling, and participation in clinical rounds. Document all experiences meticulously and seek constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
Tools & Resources
Internship logbook, Patient case study formats, Mentor guidance, Clinical nutrition guidelines
Career Connection
This is the capstone experience, directly preparing you for entry-level dietitian roles, providing a strong portfolio for placements, and demonstrating real-world competence.
Network and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, workshops on resume building, and mock interviews. Network with visiting recruiters and alumni. Be prepared to articulate your skills and experiences effectively. Attend conferences and seminars to broaden your professional network.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University placement cell, Resume builders, Mock interview platforms, Professional nutrition associations in India
Career Connection
Direct path to securing desired job roles in hospitals, clinics, or the food industry. Effective networking can open doors to unadvertised opportunities.
Explore Specialization and Higher Education- (Semester 6)
Based on your internship experience and interests, research potential areas of specialization within nutrition (e.g., sports nutrition, public health, critical care). Consider pursuing a Master''''s degree or professional certifications to further enhance your expertise and career prospects in India.
Tools & Resources
University PG program brochures, Online course platforms (e.g., Coursera for certifications), Career counselors, Discussions with faculty
Career Connection
Advanced specialization leads to leadership roles, higher earning potential, and niche career opportunities within the highly competitive Indian healthcare market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates should have passed the 12th Standard or an equivalent examination recognized by Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research with Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Botany and Zoology / Computer Science and English.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 130 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNA101 | Human Anatomy & Physiology I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, Skeletal System, Muscular System, Nervous System, Endocrine System |
| CNC101 | General Biochemistry I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Biochemistry, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Enzymes |
| CND101 | Food Science | Core | 4 | Introduction to Food Science, Cereal and Pulses, Vegetables and Fruits, Milk and Milk Products, Meat, Fish, Poultry and Eggs |
| CNE101 | English | Core | 2 | Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Spoken English, Communication |
| CNF101 | Basic Computer Skills | Core | 2 | Introduction to Computers, MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Internet & Email |
| CNP101 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Human Anatomy & Physiology I Practical, General Biochemistry I Practical, Food Science Practical |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNA202 | Human Anatomy & Physiology II | Core | 4 | Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Digestive System, Urinary System, Reproductive System |
| CNC202 | General Biochemistry II | Core | 4 | Metabolic Pathways of Carbohydrates, Lipids and Proteins, Nucleic Acids, Vitamins, Minerals |
| CNF202 | Food Microbiology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Microbiology, Food Spoilage, Foodborne Diseases, Food Preservation, Fermented Foods |
| CNE202 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Management |
| CNB202 | Biostatistics | Core | 2 | Introduction to Biostatistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Probability, Hypothesis Testing |
| CNP202 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Human Anatomy & Physiology II Practical, General Biochemistry II Practical, Food Microbiology Practical |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNA303 | Introduction to Clinical Nutrition | Core | 4 | Introduction to Clinical Nutrition, Nutritional Assessment, Dietary Guidelines, Role of Dietitian, Basic Diet Therapy |
| CNC303 | Nutritional Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Macronutrients Metabolism, Micronutrients Metabolism, Energy Metabolism, Hormonal Regulation, Nutritional Genomics |
| CNQ303 | Quantity Food Production | Core | 4 | Principles of Quantity Food Production, Menu Planning, Food Costing, Food Service Systems, Quality Control |
| CNR303 | Research Methodology | Core | 2 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| CND303 | Dietetics I (Therapeutic Nutrition I) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Dietetics, Diets for Weight Management, Diets for Diabetes Mellitus, Diets for Cardiovascular Diseases, Diets for Renal Diseases |
| CNP303 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Introduction to Clinical Nutrition Practical, Nutritional Biochemistry Practical, Quantity Food Production Practical |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNA404 | Advanced Clinical Nutrition | Core | 4 | Critical Care Nutrition, Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition, Nutrition Support, Metabolic Stress, Immunonutrition |
| CNC404 | Community Nutrition | Core | 4 | Principles of Community Nutrition, Nutritional Problems in India, National Nutrition Programs, Nutrition Education, Food Security |
| CNF404 | Food Service Management | Core | 4 | Principles of Food Service Management, Personnel Management, Financial Management, Marketing in Food Service, Facility Planning |
| CND404 | Dietetics II (Therapeutic Nutrition II) | Core | 4 | Diets for Gastrointestinal Disorders, Diets for Liver Diseases, Diets for Pancreatic Disorders, Diets for Cancer, Diets for HIV/AIDS |
| CNQ404 | Food Quality Control & Safety | Core | 2 | Principles of Food Quality Control, Food Laws and Regulations (India), HACCP, Food Additives, Food Adulteration |
| CNP404 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Advanced Clinical Nutrition Practical, Community Nutrition Practical, Food Service Management Practical |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNS505 | Sports Nutrition | Core | 4 | Introduction to Sports Nutrition, Macronutrients for Athletes, Micronutrients for Athletes, Hydration, Ergogenic Aids |
| CNM505 | Maternal and Child Nutrition | Core | 4 | Nutrition during Pregnancy, Lactation, Infancy, Childhood, Adolescence |
| CNP505 | Public Health Nutrition | Core | 4 | Public Health Aspects of Nutrition, Nutritional Epidemiology, Surveillance, Intervention Strategies, Policy Development |
| CNG505 | Nutrition for Geriatrics | Core | 4 | Nutritional Needs of Elderly, Age-related Physiological Changes, Common Health Problems in Elderly, Diet Modification, Nutritional Care |
| CNC505 | Nutritional Counseling & Communication | Core | 2 | Principles of Counseling, Communication Skills, Behavior Modification, Client Assessment, Case Studies |
| CNP505 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Sports Nutrition Practical, Maternal and Child Nutrition Practical, Public Health Nutrition Practical |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNF606 | Food Product Development & Marketing | Core | 4 | Principles of Food Product Development, Sensory Evaluation, Packaging, Branding, Food Marketing Strategies |
| CNN606 | Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods | Core | 4 | Introduction to Nutraceuticals, Functional Food Ingredients, Health Benefits, Regulations, Market Trends |
| CNH606 | Hospital & Institutional Food Service Management | Core | 4 | Hospital Food Service Systems, Menu Planning in Hospitals, Food Safety in Institutions, Budgeting, Quality Assurance |
| CNI606 | Clinical Dietetics Internship/Project | Project | 8 | Clinical case studies, Patient assessment, Diet planning, Counseling, Hospital experience, Research project |
| CNP606 | Practicals (Integrated) | Lab | 4 | Food Product Development & Marketing Practical, Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods Practical, Hospital & Institutional Food Service Management Practical |




