Animal nutritionist: Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include biology, biochemistry, biosciences, biomedical sciences, health sciences, dietetics and physiology, and agricultural, food and sports sciences. The following subjects may open up more opportunities because of their focus on nutrition:

animal management;
applied animal science;
public health nutrition;
agriculture (animal science);
animal care;
animal/equine science;
animal production science;
zoology (animal science);
veterinary science.

Diplomates with an HND in nutrition hoping for a career in animal nutrition are recommended to transfer onto a degree course to study nutritional science in more depth.

If you have a more general biology or science-related degree, it may be necessary to specialise in nutrition at postgraduate level. This is also an option for career changers. See the Prospects Postgraduate Directory for details of courses.

It is highly recommended that budding animal nutritionists should approach experienced nutritionists for work shadowing opportunities or to talk to them about the various areas of nutrition. This will help in choosing specialisations and in understanding current industrial trends.

Changes in government funding have had a negative impact on opportunities in animal nutrition and, with all sectors of UK agriculture in serious decline, competition for jobs is strong. A PhD is necessary for some posts and in order to undertake advanced training in nutritional research at MPhil or PhD level, you will need an excellent BSc (2.1 or first) or an MSc.

Many farmers, however, value relevant industrial knowledge and farming experience over academic qualifications. If you do not have the most relevant academic qualifications and want to register as an animal nutritionist, you will need to provide a comprehensive portfolio of evidence and work experience to the registrar of The Nutrition Society . Gaining experience in related areas, such as animal feed sales or practical farm experience, or having a farming background should be an advantage.

In order to be fully recognised as an animal nutritionist, it is important to apply to become accepted onto the Nutrition Society's Register of Accredited Nutritionists. Registered membership (RegNutr) is available to nutrition or public health nutrition graduates with single or dual honours where nutrition is the main subject, or to those with related degrees and relevant work experience. Associate membership (ANutr) is offered to graduates with a nutrition-related BSc or taught MSc focusing on nutrition. See the Nutrition Society's website for further details.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

an understanding of the scientific basis of nutrition;
familiarity with analysing data and writing reports;
the ability to conduct research in a safe, ethical and reliable manner;
the ability to formulate and communicate ideas;
the ability to form long-term relationships with customers and clients;
an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science and the validity of others' viewpoints;
business management, time management and personal development skills;
advanced numeracy, IT and internet skills;
drive, perseverance, dedication and the willingness to work long hours.

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates on the grounds of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith. For more information on equality and diversity in the job market and how to handle discrimination see the AGCAS publication Handling Discrimination.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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