Certificate in Nutrition Survey Methods (CNSM)

The Certificate in Nutrition Survey Methods (CNSM) is a specialized, skill-oriented program designed to equip students and nutrition professionals with the knowledge and practical competencies required to plan, conduct, analyze, and interpret nutrition and health surveys. In an era where evidence-based nutrition policies and programs are essential, accurate nutrition assessment and survey data form the backbone of public health decision-making. 

This program provides a strong foundation in nutrition assessment techniques, survey design, sampling methods, dietary assessment tools, anthropometry, biochemical and clinical indicators, and data collection methodologies. Learners are trained to understand both community-based and institutional surveys, with emphasis on ethical considerations, standardization, and quality control. 

The CNSM course bridges the gap between theoretical nutrition knowledge and real-world field application, enabling participants to critically evaluate nutrition data and translate findings into meaningful interventions. It is particularly relevant for those involved in public health nutrition, research projects, national nutrition programs, NGOs, academic institutions, and community health initiatives.

Programme Structure

International Affiliation with

Module 1: Types of Nutrition Surveys

• Dietary Surveys: 24-hour recall, food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), diet history
• Anthropometric Surveys: height, weight, BMI, MUAC, skinfolds
• Biochemical Assessments: blood, urine tests for micronutrients
• Clinical Assessments: physical signs of deficiencies (e.g., pallor, goiter)

Module 2: Dietary Assessment Techniques

• Single vs repeated 24-hour recalls
• Weighed food record vs estimated food record
• Validity and reliability of FFQ

Module 3: Sampling and Study Design

• Target population selection
• Random, stratified, or cluster sampling
• Designing survey forms and pilot testing

Module 4: Data Collection Tools

• Digital vs paper-based surveys
• Portion size estimation using food models/photos
• Mobile apps for real-time dietary tracking

Module 5: Case Study: Community Nutrition Survey

• Conducting a school meal nutrition survey
• Urban slum dietary intake assessment
• Report writing and recommendations 

Eligibility

Any Diploma holder/ graduation/ B.tech/ B.Sc. in Nutrition/ Home Science/ Microbiology/ Life Sciences/ Botany/ Zoology/ Food Science/ Food Technology/ BE/ B.Pharma/ MBBS/ BDS/ BHMS/ BUMS/ BAMS or any other discipline. 

Programme Duration

The duration of the certificate programme is 4 days.

Programme Mode

Registration is currently open for Part-time (Online Live Classes) mode.

Programme Deliverables

• The training material is appropriately aligned with the current Industry's expectations.
• Interactive online live sessions on all key areas of the programme giving all flexibility to the participants.
• Online discussion of the certificate programme topics for ensuring active participation of each attendee.
• All learning and training delivery initiatives shall be conducted in English. 

Assessment & Certification

Online assessment will be conducted at the end of the programme and after successful completion; the participants will be awarded Certificate in Nutrition Survey Methods (CNSM) by Centre for Nutrition and Dietetics Studies, IGMPI.

Discipline in Classes and Examination

Every student is required to observe a disciplined behaviour during her/his classes, assessments & examinations and to follow instructions from the Professors. Any act of indiscipline may result into discredit & it will be mentioned in her/his academic report.

Future Career Prospects

The Certificate in Nutrition Survey Methods (CNSM) offered by CNDS, IGMPI, provides participants with practical knowledge and skills to plan, conduct, and analyze nutrition and dietary surveys. Graduates can pursue roles as Nutrition Surveyors, Public Health Nutritionists, Research Assistants, Program Monitoring Officers, and Data Analysts, with opportunities in government programs, research institutions, NGOs, public health organizations, and academic settings, supporting evidence-based nutrition planning and policy development.

View Prospectus

Apply Online

Last date for submitting completed Application Form: 23^rd Jan 2026.

For further enquiries, call or write to us on:
18001031071 (Toll Free -9:00 am to 5:30 pm IST-except on Central Government holidays)/ info@igmpi.ac.in