About IGNOU MScDFSM – Master of Science in Food and Nutrition
This programme teaches advanced concepts in dietetics, clinical nutrition, and food service management to prepare students for professional roles in hospitals and the food industry. It is specifically designed for learners who want to become registered dietitians or nutrition consultants in various healthcare settings.
The curriculum is designed to be highly relevant for anyone looking to work in the health and wellness sector. It covers everything from how the human body processes nutrients to how large-scale food services are managed efficiently. By studying these subjects, you learn the science behind healthy eating and the practical skills needed to manage food safety and microbiology in a professional environment. The courses are structured to give you a strong foundation in biochemistry and physiology before moving into specialized areas like public nutrition and therapeutic diets for patients.
After completing this programme, a student will be able to design specialized meal plans for people with different medical conditions and manage large-scale kitchen operations. You will gain the skills needed to conduct nutritional research, analyze health data using biostatistics, and start your own venture in the food service industry. These learning outcomes ensure that you are ready for roles such as Clinical Nutritionist, Food Quality Controller, or Dietetic Manager in both government and private sectors. The inclusion of an internship ensures that you get real-world experience before you even graduate.
IGNOU MScDFSM Syllabus Highlights
The table below provides a quick look at the administrative details and the academic layout of the Master of Science in Food and Nutrition. These highlights help you understand the total workload and the duration of the programme.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | Master of Science in Food and Nutrition |
| Programme Code | MScDFSM |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Credits | 72 |
| Offering School | School of Continuing Education |
IGNOU MScDFSM Course Structure
The Master of Science in Food and Nutrition is structured over a period of two years. Although students follow an annual examination system, the courses are divided into distinct groups of theory and practical modules. The first year focuses on foundational sciences, while the second year focuses on professional application and research.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| First Year | Core Theory & Practicals | 30 |
| Second Year | Core, Internship & Dissertation | 42 |
IGNOU MScDFSM Syllabus: 2026
The following tables provide the exact course codes and titles as per the latest academic framework for 2026. Ensure you check both theory and practical codes for your registration.
1st Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MFN-1 | Applied Physiology | 4 |
| MFN-2 | Nutritional Biochemistry | 2 |
| MFNL-2 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-3 | Food Safety and Food Microbiology | 2 |
| MFNL-3 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-6 | Public Nutrition | 4 |
| MFNL-6 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-8 | Principles of Food Science | 2 |
| MFNL-8 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-10 | Understanding Computer Applications | 2 |
| MFN-4 | Advance Nutrition | 4 |
| MFNL-4 | Practical | 2 |
2nd Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| MFN-5 | Clinical and Therapeutic Nutrition | 4 |
| MFNL-5 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-7 | Entrepreneurship and Food Service Management | 4 |
| MFNL-7 | Practical | 2 |
| MFN-9 | Research Methods and Biostatistics | 6 |
| MFNP-11 | Internship Programme | 16 |
| MFNP-12 | Dissertation | 8 |
Total Credits: 72
IGNOU MScDFSM Credit System
The IGNOU MScDFSM Syllabus uses a credit system to measure the study effort required. In this system, 1 credit is equal to approximately 30 hours of total study time, including reading, attending sessions, and doing assignments. The Master of Science in Food and Nutrition requires a total of 72 credits to be successfully completed. These credits are split between theory papers, laboratory practicals, and mandatory project work like the internship and dissertation. If a student fails to clear a course in the first attempt, they can reappear in the next Term-End Examination cycle without having to re-enroll in the entire programme.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ The syllabus reflects the 2026 academic framework. IGNOU may revise
course contents at its discretion. Always verify the latest syllabus at
ignou.ac.in
before starting your studies.
Also Read
More resources for MScDFSM students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU MScDFSM Syllabus
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU
(Indira Gandhi National Open University). The syllabus information provided here is
for academic reference only and may be subject to revision by IGNOU. Always verify
the latest course structure at
ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
