Dietitian : Training

It is essential that registered dietitians keep up to date with developments and research in their area. Dietitians are regulated by the Health Professions Council (HPC)  and are also required by them to undertake continuing professional development (CPD) which needs to be evidenced.

Registered dietitians can become full members of the British Dietetic Association (BDA) , which runs regular post-registration training in a variety of subjects. Sessions are usually organised by special interest groups within the association and focus on areas of expertise. Food manufacturers also offer courses for dietitians about new products, and these are sometimes run via BDA branches.

The BDA also offers the Advanced Dietetic Practice Diploma, which is also available as a Masters, certificate or as individual modules. This is a post-registration qualification that meets the BDA’s requirements for work-based learning and research skills, as well as contributing towards CPD.

A Professional Development Award is also offered by the BDA, which is a five-year programme that provides dietitians with a way to evidence their CPD. See the BDA website for further details.