The MS HND program provides students with a rigorous, in depth understanding of advanced theories, concepts, and methodologies in Human Nutrition and Dietetics. It equips students with the analytical and clinical skills, along with research expertise, needed to address complex nutrition-related challenges and bridge theory with practical application. The program spans four semesters, combining core courses with advanced electives for specialization in areas such as clinical and community nutrition, and culminating in an independent research thesis. Students receive advanced training in research methods, enabling them to design and conduct robust qualitative and quantitative studies. Throughout the program, students strengthen their ability to critically evaluate literature, apply theory to real-world settings, and produce evidence-based solutions to nutrition problems, while also developing strong communication and counseling skills. The program prepares graduates for impactful careers in clinical settings, healthcare organizations, academia, the food industry, research institutes, and public health and policy institutions.
Scope of the Degree Program:
The MS Human Nutrition and Dietetics (MS HND) degree has a broad scope in Pakistan due to the increasing burden of malnutrition, diet-related non-communicable diseases, and growing demand for qualified nutrition professionals.
Career pathways include:
a. Clinical & Healthcare: Clinical Dietitians, Nutritionists, Nutrition Consultants, and healthcare professionals in hospitals and clinics.
b. Public Health & NGOs: Public Health Nutritionists, Community Nutrition Officers, and Program Officers in government, NGOs, and international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, FAO, WFP, and UNIDO.
c. Research: Nutrition Researchers and Research Officers in universities, hospitals, research institutes, and nutrition-related organizations.
d. Academia: Lecturers, Assistant Professors, and academic/research professionals in universities and colleges, with opportunities for further PhD studies.
e. Food & Nutrition Industry: Professionals in food industries, product development, nutrition consultancy, quality and regulatory affairs, and corporate wellness.
f. Leadership & Consultancy: Opportunities for career progression into senior, managerial, consultancy, policy, and leadership roles.
The program also contributes to society through evidence-based nutrition interventions, nutrition education, disease prevention, maternal and child nutrition, and food security initiatives, while providing graduates with local and international career opportunities.
Objectives of the Degree Program:
Graduates of the MS HND program are prepared to:
• Analyze and address nutrition-related problems within Pakistan’s socio-cultural, economic, and environmental context.
• Design, conduct, analyze, and interpret nutrition research studies, projects, and programs.
• Plan, implement, manage, and evaluate nutrition interventions across clinical, community, and public health settings.
• Communicate nutrition and dietetics knowledge effectively to diverse individuals, communities, and professional audiences.
• Advocate for evidence-based nutrition and food policies and practices to promote health and prevent nutrition-related disorders.
HOD Message:
It is my great pleasure to welcome our students, faculty, and academic community to the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics.
Nutrition is no longer limited to food and diet alone; it is a multidisciplinary field at the heart of health, disease prevention, community wellbeing, and sustainable development. Our department is committed to preparing competent, compassionate, and evidence-driven nutrition professionals who can respond to the evolving nutritional challenges of Pakistan and beyond.
We strive to provide our students with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge, clinical practice, community nutrition, research, and professional skills, while encouraging critical thinking, innovation, ethical practice, and lifelong learning.
As we move forward, our vision is to build a culture of excellence in teaching, research, community engagement, and professional development. Together, we aim to contribute meaningfully to a healthier society through nutrition.
I warmly welcome you to be part of this journey of knowledge, innovation, and positive impact.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Imran Hussain
HOD, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, RLKU
Admission Criteria:
Eligibility Criteria:
A minimum 16-year HEC-recognized degree in a relevant discipline, including:
• Minimum CGPA of 2.00/4.00 or equivalent.
• Minimum 50% marks in GAT (Subject) OR 60% marks in the departmental admission test.
• Successful interview by the Admission Committee.
A minimum 16-year HEC-recognized degree in a relevant discipline, including:
- Human Nutrition & Dietetics / Nutritional Sciences
- Food Science & Technology / Food Technology
- Agriculture with a major in Food Science & Technology / Food Technology
- Home Economics with a major in Food & Nutrition
- MBBS, BDS, Pharm-D, Nursing, Public Health, or Dairy Technology
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Physiology, Biological Sciences, or other relevant Medical Sciences
• Minimum CGPA of 2.00/4.00 or equivalent.
• Minimum 50% marks in GAT (Subject) OR 60% marks in the departmental admission test.
• Successful interview by the Admission Committee.
Road Map Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics (MS-HND)
Total Credit Hours: 35 | Duration: 4 Semesters (2 Years) | Semester Duration: 16 - 18 weeks
| Sr. No. | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biochemistry and Physiology of Human Nutrition | 3(2-1) |
| 2 | Prevention and Management of Nutritional Disorders | 3(2-1) |
| 3 | Recent Advances in Dietetics | 3(3-0) |
| 4 | Nutritional Aspects of Eating Disorders | 2(2-0) |
| 5 | Fehm-e-Quran-I | 1(1-0) |
| Total Credit Hours | 12 (10+2) | |
| Sr. No. | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutrition and Metabolism | 3(3-0) |
| 2 | Community Nutrition | 3(3-0) |
| 3 | Laboratory Techniques in Nutrition | 2(0-2) |
| 4 | Advanced Biostatistics and Research Methodology | 3(2-1) |
| 5 | Fehm-e-Quran-II | 1(1-0) |
| Total Credit Hours | 12 (9+3) | |
| Sr. No. | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutraceutical and Functional Foods | 3(3-0) |
| 2 | AI in Food and Nutrition | 2(1-1) |
| Total Credit Hours | 5 (4+1) | |
| Sr. No. | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Research and Thesis | 6(0-6) |
| Total Credit Hours | 6 | |
Total Program Credit Hours: 35
Disclaimer: Anything present on website can be changed without any prior Notice.
Faculty List
