Nutrition BSc

Overview

Develop your understanding of nutrition with us

Not all nutrition courses take a holistic approach to the subject. Our BSc Nutrition programme is interdisciplinary in its approach, exploring the link between diet, health, disease and performance. As nutritionists play a key role in creating and translating research into nutritional advice and policies, you’ll learn all about how the human body uses nutrients and the effects this has on health.

Beyond theoretical knowledge, our course will advance your employability by developing skills like communication, numeracy, research, team working, creative thinking, and more. Your new skills will be relevant in a variety of careers, especially dietician, nutritional therapist, and science writer. If you’d like to focus on nutrition directly after graduation you’ll have the chance to work as a nutritional advisor, food scientist, heath trainer, or sports nutritionist.

Typical employers of nutrition graduates include the NHS, Public Health England, food manufacturers, plus the catering and hospitality industry.

Learn to apply your skills

Our course offers you the unique opportunity to undertake a 12-month placement in your third year before returning for a final year of study. Completing the placement will mean you graduate with a BSc Nutrition (Professional Practice) degree, which highlights the additional practical skills you’ve gained to prospective employers. You’ll get plenty of support from our Employability Advisors, who’ll ensure you secure a placement that closely matches your interests.

Members of the Nutrition Society have the option of taking advantage of its internship programme. Other potential placement opportunities include Unilever, GSK, sports clubs, NHS Primary Care Trusts, and Nestle.

During your studies, you’ll use innovative technology to enhance your learning. You’ll be taught with a mixture of seminars, group and individual tutorials, and through laboratory classes to help you gain theoretical and practical knowledge of nutrition.

Get the support you need to succeed

We know sometimes you’ll need assistance and support when it comes to your studies. During your time with us you'll get assistance from a Personal Tutor. If you require a little extra support, we have Student Learning Assistants and Graduate Academic Assistants on hand to help.

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Course content

What will you study on the BSc Nutrition?

At the beginning of your course, you will review the basic sciences related to nutrition - molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology, human nutrition, food science and generic scientific and employability skills. As a second year student, you will explore advanced topics in nutrition, including the relationship between diet and health, nutrition through the human lifecycle, mechanisms by which diet influences human health and disease, food policy, and research and employability skills. In your final year, you will examine specialised topics in nutrition, including clinical nutrition, sport and exercise nutrition, and public health nutrition as well as carry out your own research.

What will you gain?

As well as an in-depth knowledge of the relationship between diet and health, human performance and disease, you will gain the practical skills to assess the nutritional status of humans in health or disease. You will be aware of the factors that influence food choice and nutritional policies. Additionally, you will understand the nutritional requirements at both molecular and population levels for humans. You will also have an appreciation of the need to be commercially aware and innovative, and understand the importance of research in the advancement of nutritional knowledge and evidence based practice.

Year 1 modules
- Nutritional Practice (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module aims to provide a wide range of practical, analytical and data handling skills you will need throughout your degree. It will also give you a solid foundation in employability skills such as teamwork, using information technology, communicating information and study skills.
- Human Sciences (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module aims to provide you with the knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology required to underpin your future learning. The unifying theme of homeostasis is used to show how a healthy structure and function are maintained and how failures of homeostasis can result in disease.
- Cell Biology and Genetics (15 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module explores the cell as the basic functional unit of life investigating the structure and function of cell components and introducing the cell cycle and the biology of disease. Concepts of evolution and the principles of inheritance are explained at the molecular level.
- Metabolic Biochemistry (15 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The main aim of this module is to introduce the key metabolic pathways of energy metabolism. You will acquire the skills and underpinning knowledge to pursue further studies in biochemistry.
- Principles of Human Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module introduces the principal aspects of human nutrition. The aim of the module is to provide you with a wide breadth of knowledge in human nutrition.
Year 2 modules
- Research Methods and Professional Development (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module aims to provide you with the skills necessary to plan, implement, analyse and report project-based work, with the focus on preparation for the final year project module. The module also develops core research skills fundamental to a scientific research design, irrespective of discipline. Specific research skills include analytical techniques appropriate to individual programme requirements.
- Diet and Health (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module covers issues relating to human nutrition during the life cycle in both health and disease. It also explores scientific evidence and current issues relating to diet, health and disease. Additionally, you will gain an appreciation of the genetic, molecular, and physiological basis of nutritional disorders.
- Nutritional Biochemistry (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module covers not only the nutritional requirements but also their functions of nutrients at the cellular and molecular level. It also aims to develop your appreciation of metabolic disorders and the current knowledge of nutrient-gene interactions in health and disease.
- Food and Nutrition Science (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module provides an understanding of aspects of nutrition, food chemistry, food microbiology, sensory science, functional food ingredients, food packaging, food safety, and food regulations so you can provide informed nutritional advice and evaluate food products. It also aims to provide you with a wide range of practical, analytical and data handling skills.
Optional Placement
- Placement for Employability (120 credits) - Optional
  
  This practical experience module provides the means for you to link academic work with a 'real world' situation to conceptualise the meaning of theory in the wider world context. This module will allow you to gain transferable and graduate skills necessary for future career paths and employment. It is envisaged you will reflect upon areas of knowledge relevant to the placement learning experience and develop personal knowledge through a review of your learning. It will also give you the opportunity to enhance your skills of self-expression, communication, self-reliance and co-operation.
  By completing this year-long placement you will graduate with the degree title of BSc Nutrition (Professional Practice).
Year 3 modules
- Clinical Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module aims to cover the scientific basis underlying nutritional support, medical ethics and nutritional counselling. It provides a review of the relevant physiology, pathophysiology, nutritional support and dietetic application for common disorders.
- Sport and Exercise Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module is designed to provide you with the theoretical and practical knowledge of how optimal nutrition can help to minimise the risk of sports injuries, enhance performance and promote recovery from injury.
- Public Health Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module takes an interdisciplinary and intercultural approach to nutrition and health challenges facing the world. It aims to provide you with an understanding of the nutritional factors that influence health from a local, national and global perspective. Additionally, it examines evidence-based approaches to the prevention, management and control of nutritional disorders of public health concerns.
- Dissertation (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module will build on the skills you have acquired when undertaking previous modules and from the knowledge gained throughout the programme. Further development of analysis, critical thinking and scientific literary style will be promoted. You will be enabled to pursue areas of individual interest in the subject area appropriate to your target award and will have the opportunity of gaining increased theoretical and practical knowledge in a chosen specialist field. Individual research experience will be gained in an area that may provide future employment opportunities. Personal responsibility for own learning through self-directed study and supervised preparation will be fostered. It is an integral part of the degree programme, furthering the development of skills in critical analysis and reflection.

You can find more information about this course in the programme specification. Optional modules are usually available at levels 5 and 6, although optional modules are not offered on every course. Where optional modules are available, you will be asked to make your choice during the previous academic year. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If an optional module will not run, we will advise you after the module selection period when numbers are confirmed, or at the earliest time that the programme team make the decision not to run the module, and help you choose an alternative module.

Teaching

How is the BSc Nutrition taught?
You will be taught using a range of methods and techniques including:
- Lectures will introduce you to key information and knowledge
- Seminars will reinforce the knowledge provided in lectures by undertaking problem solving exercises and group discussions
- Laboratory classes will help you acquire practical and research skills
- Group or individual tutorials will be tailor-made sessions addressing specific subject areas as the need arises and helping you to develop communication, leadership and team-working skills
- Individual projects will take place in the final year and all projects will be supervised by an appropriate and designed to help you develop your critical thinking and research skills
A range of online resources will also be used, designed to support the teaching provided by the lecturers
Assessment
Your knowledge and understanding is assessed by both summative and formative assessments, which include seminar presentations, written assignments, laboratory reports, portfolios, group project, dissertation, practical and theory examinations.
Teaching
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals, practical workshops or demonstrations. Lectures allow you to gain and develop knowledge in specific subjects. You can discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures and practicals in smaller seminar groups usually made up of 20 students. Tutorials, typically, will include class debates, student presentations, problem-based learning or data analysis activities. In addition, you can arrange one to one sessions with your personal tutor or module leader. You will also have access to and use resources to support your learning including; our virtual learning environment called MyLearning throughout your course.
During your first year (level 4), your weekly timetable will typically consist of:
- 4-5 hours of lectures
- 6-7 hours of tutorials
- 2-3 hours of supervised practicals
Independent Learning
When not attending your teaching, sessions mentioned above, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework, presentations and examinations. Your independent learning is supported by the facilities available including the library and Study Hub, Laptop hire, and with online materials in MyUniHub (see student support section below).
Overall Workload
Your overall workload will include the activities listed above, and with each credit being completed equating to 10 hours of study time (You will complete 120 credits per level of study, which are broken down into modules of typically 30 credits). While your actual hours may depend on the optional module that you choose (if available), the following information will give you an indication of how much time is allocated to teaching and independent study on your course;
Level 4
25% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 303 hours
- Independent Learning: 897 hours
Level 5
16% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 187 hours
- Independent Learning: 1013 hours
Level 6
13% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 157 hours
- Independent Learning: 1043 hours
Academic Support
You will have access to academic support services that you assist you in the following areas:
- Study Skills, including academic writing, reading and numeracy skills
- Employability, with workshops and tutorials on CV writing, interview and presentation skills
- Library Support, including sessions on finding, and choosing the right resources and software and tutorials on referencing and plagiarism
- Progression and Support Advisors to assist you with if you experience difficulties with your studies
- Well-being Services.
These services can be accessed through the UniHelp Desk in the Library building.
Assessment
The course will provide you with opportunities to test your knowledge and understanding informally through ‘formative’ assessment. This will be completed before your formal ‘summative’ assessment which will count towards your final marks. Each module normally contains at least one piece of formative assessment from which you will receive feedback from your tutor. Formative assessments are developmental and any grade you receive from formative assessment does not count towards your final marks.
There is formal ‘summative’ assessment as part of the module, usually towards the end of the module. Assessment methods could include written examinations, a range of coursework including essays, reports, portfolios, presentations, laboratory based exams and final year research project. The grades from the summative assessments count towards your module mark. Assessments are reviewed annually and may be updated based on student feedback, to suit content or based on feedback from an external examiner.
Percentage of course assessed by coursework
The balance of assessment will depend on the modules that you complete throughout your course. The approximate percentage of the course which is assessed by coursework is outlined below:
Level 4 74% coursework 26% written exams
Level 5 44% coursework 46% written exams 10% practical exams
Level 6 67.5% coursework 25% written exams 7.5% practical exams

Feedback
You will receive feedback on the formative assessment, and written summative assessments. Feedback on examination performance can be requested from the module leader. Feedback is intended to help you learn and progress, and you are encouraged to review and discuss your feedback with your module or personal tutor.
We will aim to provide you with feedback within 15 working days of submission.
Details of progression and pass marks for assessment can be found in the university regulations.

Entry requirements

Qualifications
112 UCAS points, including grade C or above in Biology or Chemistry and a second science subject, plus GCSE C English and Maths
Middlesex University has a flexible and personalised approach to admissions and we accept applications from students with a wide range of qualifications and a combination of qualifications.
Please check our general entry requirements page to see how these points can be achieved from our acceptable level 3 qualifications and the combinations which are welcomed by Middlesex University, including GCSE requirements.
Applications from mature candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience.
If you are unable to meet the entry requirements for this course you may still be eligible for our Foundation year course. This is an extra year of study to prepare you for the full degree. For more information see our Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Environmental and Public Health foundation page.
Eligibility
UK/EU and international students are eligible to apply for this course.
Academic credit for previous study or experience
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our Accreditation of Prior Learning page.
Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions
Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.
Qualifications
112 UCAS points, including grade C or above in Biology or Chemistry and a second science subject, plus GCSE C English and Maths
Middlesex University has a flexible and personalised approach to admissions and we accept applications from students with a wide range of qualifications and a combination of qualifications.
Please check our general entry requirements page to see how these points can be achieved from our acceptable level 3 qualifications and the combinations which are welcomed by Middlesex University, including GCSE requirements.
Applications from mature candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience.
If you are unable to meet the entry requirements for this course you may still be eligible for our Foundation year course. This is an extra year of study to prepare you for the full degree. For more information see our Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Environmental and Public Health foundation page.
To find out more about the qualifications we accept from your country please visit the relevant support in your country page. If you are unsure about the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest regional office for support.
Academic credit for previous study or experience
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our Accreditation of Prior Learning page.
Visas and immigration
You will not need a visa to study in the UK if you are a citizen of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. If you are a national of any other country you may need a visa to study in the UK. Please see our visas and immigration page for further information.
English language requirements for international students
You must have competence in English language to study with us. The most commonly accepted evidence of English language ability is IELTS 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 in all components). We also normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. Visit our English language requirements page for a full list of accepted tests and qualifications.
If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, we offer an intensive pre-sessional English course.
Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions
Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.
Please apply via UCAS using this course’s UCAS code B400.
For help with your application, please view our undergraduate application page.

Fees and funding

The fees below refer to the 2020/21 academic year unless otherwise stated.
UK/EU students*
Full-time students: £9,250
Part-time students: £77 per taught credit
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation so the total costs for part-time study are shown here as a guide.
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our undergraduate funding page.
The fees below refer to the 2020/21 academic year unless otherwise stated.
International students*
Full-time students: £13,700
Part-time students: £108 per taught credit
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation so the total costs for part-time study are shown here as a guide.
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our undergraduate funding page.
Course costs
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- A free electronic textbook for every module
- All printing and copying required for your study
- Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
- Audio-visual equipment available for loan, including digital stills cameras, digital video recorders, digital audio recorders

Careers

How can the BSc Nutrition support your career?

This degree can be applied to a wide variety of careers such as dietitian, nutritional therapist, science writer, or product quality researcher. You could choose to focus directly on nutrition and work in such roles as nutrition advisor, sports nutritionist, food scientist, food technologist, health promotion specialist, health trainer, teacher, academic or researcher.

Typical employers of nutrition graduates can include:

NHS
Public Health England
food manufacturing industry
catering and hospitality
grocery and related retailing

Campus life

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Level 4	74% coursework	26% written exams
Level 5	44% coursework	46% written exams	10% practical exams
Level 6	67.5% coursework	25% written exams	7.5% practical exams

This course is now available in Clearing.Follow this link or call 020 8411 6565 for more info

Overview

Develop your understanding of nutrition with us

Learn to apply your skills

Get the support you need to succeed

Find out more

Faculty

Course content

What will you study on the BSc Nutrition?

What will you gain?

Year 1 modules

Nutritional Practice (30 credits) - Compulsory

Human Sciences (30 credits) - Compulsory

Cell Biology and Genetics (15 credits) - Compulsory

Metabolic Biochemistry (15 credits) - Compulsory

Principles of Human Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory

Year 2 modules

Research Methods and Professional Development (30 credits) - Compulsory

Diet and Health (30 credits) - Compulsory

Nutritional Biochemistry (30 credits) - Compulsory

Food and Nutrition Science (30 credits) - Compulsory

Optional Placement

Placement for Employability (120 credits) - Optional

Year 3 modules

Clinical Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory

Sport and Exercise Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory

Public Health Nutrition (30 credits) - Compulsory

Dissertation (30 credits) - Compulsory

Teaching

How is the BSc Nutrition taught?

Assessment

Teaching

Independent Learning

Overall Workload

Academic Support

Assessment

Percentage of course assessed by coursework

Feedback

Life at Middlesex

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Eligibility

Academic credit for previous study or experience

Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions

Qualifications

Academic credit for previous study or experience

Visas and immigration

English language requirements for international students

Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions

Help with your application

EU / International students

Fees and funding

Scholarships, fees and bursaries

Careers

How can the BSc Nutrition support your career?

Life at Middlesex

Campus life

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This course is now available in Clearing.
Follow this link or call 020 8411 6565 for more info