309105 v.1 Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics

Introduction

Dietetics involves the study of those medical aspects of disease that have a nutritional component in prevention or treatment. Dietetics is concerned with the science and art of providing nutritional care for individuals and groups differing widely in economic, social, psychological and physiological conditions. Dietitians find professional satisfaction as a recognisedmember of a health team, in such areas as hospital, community or public health. Dietitians also work in food service, the food industry,research teams and private practice.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

Applicants must have completed the Bachelor of Science (Nutrition and Food Science) degree and have achieved a weighted average of 65 per cent where units are undertaken at Curtin (assuming the third year of study is completed full time). Limited places are available due to the low availability of dietetic placements. Applicants are ranked on the basis of course average (90 per cent of grading) and an interview (10 per cent of grading). Applicants with a dietetic qualification are ineligible to apply.

Specific Requirements

Students are required to obtain a food handlers safety certificate as part of Community and Food Placement 582.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability

This fee paying course is one year full-time study with the dietetic placement extending beyond the end of second semester.

Course Organisation

A satisfactory performance in Medicine and Dietetics 581, Advanced Nutrition Topics 580 and Dietetic Practice Techniques 580 is a pre-requisite for Clinical Placement 582. Performance will be judged satisfactory if the student achieves a weighted aggregate of 65 or more in the combination of Medicine and Dietetics 581, Dietetic Practice Techniques 580 and the first semester component of Advanced Nutrition Topics 580 (equals 65 per cent of the assessment of the unit). Students are required to participate in preliminary placement activities during the inter semester break and the major placement activities continue beyond the semester.

Professional Recognition

The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) on a regular basis accredits the dietetics program. Graduates of the accredited program are automatically accepted for membership of the DAA.

Career Opportunities

Graduates find employment as a member of a health team in such areas as hospital, community or public health, food service, the food industry, sporting groups, research teams and private practice.

Additional Course Expenses

Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials.

Availability

Availability Information has not been provided by the respective School or Area. Prospective/current students should contact the School or Area listed above for further information.