BS in Nutrition and Dietetics

Advancing Nutrition and Dietetics for a Better Tomorrow

At the Nutrition and Dietetics Department of LGU, we are committed to advancing the science of nutrition and dietetics through education, research, and community service. With growing evidence highlighting the critical role of dietary habits in shaping health and well-being, our program explores the intricate relationship between food, nutrition, and public health.

We address the nutritional needs of individuals and communities, particularly those facing health challenges, through comprehensive nutrition assessments, counseling, and support. The department is renowned for its excellence in Lebanon and was the first of its kind in the Keserwan, Metn, and Jbeil regions, established in 2000 as part of the Technical Institute for Paramedical Sciences.

Our research focuses on areas such as food safety, non-communicable diseases, and genetic factors related to nutrition and obesity. The Nutrition and Research Clinic (NaRC), established in 2021, further enhances our mission by raising awareness of healthy diets, providing nutritional guidance, and promoting research aimed at fostering healthy eating habits.

Mission

Our mission is to prepare skilled and competent entry-level licensed dietitians who contribute to public health improvement through evidence-based nutrition education and counseling. We uphold high ethical standards while fostering an environment that promotes lifelong learning, research, and community service.

As a center of excellence in teaching, research, and outreach, we leverage NaRC as a key part of our social commitment. Through public health studies, we aim to understand the mechanisms behind eating patterns and nutrition-related health risks. Additionally, NaRC offers free nutrition consultations to the community, enriching our students' clinical and practical knowledge.

Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes community nutrition, therapeutic nutrition, nutrition for specific health conditions, and food service management, our graduates are equipped to meet the growing demand for licensed dietitians both in Lebanon and abroad. They can pursue careers in healthcare institutions, hold technical and managerial positions in the food industry, or even establish their own nutrition clinics and kitchens.

Internship & Research Project

A key component of the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nutrition and Dietetics program is the supervised internship within the program, which provides students with hands-on experience in diverse settings, such as hospitals, community health centers, or food service establishments. This practical training allows students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering professional growth and competence in clinical nutrition, community nutrition, and food service management before graduation.

In addition to the internship, all students complete an end-of-program research project. This project provides the opportunity to explore contemporary nutrition topics, conduct research, and apply evidence-based practices. It enhances students' research skills while promoting critical thinking and innovation, contributing to the broader field of nutrition and dietetics.

Program Learning Objectives

Graduates of the BS in Nutrition and Dietetics program will be equipped to:

• Apply evidence-based guidelines and research findings in clinical and community nutrition practice.
• Conduct research using appropriate methodologies to contribute to the field.
• Excel in professional and inter-professional environments, demonstrating teamwork and leadership.
• Develop expertise in therapeutic nutrition, addressing special nutrition needs for specific health issues.
• Manage food service operations efficiently, adhering to food safety standards and best practices.
• Uphold the ethical and professional standards set by dietetics governance.
• Apply health education theories to promote behavior change and improve public health outcomes.
• Engage in public policy discussions and contribute to healthcare system improvements.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Nutrition and Dietetics program can pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including:

• Healthcare institutions (hospitals and primary healthcare centers)
• NGOs and INGOs (e.g., UNICEF, FAO, WHO)
• National organizations (Ministries of Health, Economy, or Agriculture)
• International organizations
• Private clinics
• Beauty and sports centers
• Catering companies
• National and international food industries
• Food safety roles in various settings (hotels, restaurants, etc.)