MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition
Holloway
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
London Metropolitan University offers a comprehensive BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become registered dietitians. This undergraduate degree typically spans four years, including substantial work placements, which are crucial for professional development. The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Dietetic Association (BDA), ensuring that graduates are eligible to apply for professional registration upon successful completion. The course aims to develop highly skilled practitioners who can assess, diagnose, and treat diet and nutrition-related problems in individuals and at a wider public health level, drawing upon the latest scientific research in the field of food, health, and disease.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition program at London Metropolitan University provides a strong foundation in life and nutritional sciences. Students will delve into the role of diet and nutrition in both disease prevention and treatment. Across the years of study, the curriculum covers a broad range of modules. Early years typically introduce fundamental concepts such as Anatomy and Physiology for Dietitians, Applied Health Psychology, Biochemistry for Dietitians, Cell Biology for Dietitians, 1 and Human Nutrition for Dietitians, alongside modules like Health, Society and Behaviour. As the course progresses, students will explore more advanced topics including Applied Food and Nutritional Science, Energy and Macronutrients, Food Science, Metabolic Biochemistry for Nutrition, Micronutrients for Health, Public Health Nutrition, 2 and Techniques in Dietary Assessment and Nutritional Research. Final year modules often include Diet and Disease, Nutrition through the Lifecycle, Sports and Exercise Nutrition, and a compulsory final year dissertation. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical learning through lectures and seminars with practical application through group work, role plays, and hands-on sessions in laboratories and the technical kitchen.
Research Focus: The program at London Metropolitan University has a strong emphasis on the most up-to-date public health and scientific research in the field. Students are introduced to the latest research findings on food, health, and disease, which informs the practical guidance they will provide in their future careers. A core component of the program is the development of research skills, evidenced by the inclusion of a 'Techniques in Dietetic and Nutrition Research' module and a compulsory 'Human Nutrition Research Dissertation' in the final year. Teaching staff are often actively involved in dietetics practice and research, providing students with mentorship and insights into current research trends. This focus ensures that graduates are prepared to utilize and contribute to the evidence base in their professional practice.
Industry Engagement: A key feature of the BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition program at London Metropolitan University is its significant industry engagement through structured work placements. The course incorporates three full-time placements throughout the duration of study. Typically, there is a two-week placement in the second year, followed by a 12-week placement in the third year, and an 11-week (or 14-week in some program structures) placement in the final year. A portion of these placements usually includes a public health nutrition component. These placements provide invaluable hands-on experience in real-world settings, predominantly within National Health Service (NHS) organizations in London. The performance during these placements is assessed as part of the degree, ensuring that students gain practical skills and professional experience before graduation. The strong links between the university and industry, facilitated by the placements, enhance graduates' employability.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition program at London Metropolitan University, while primarily focused on the UK context for professional registration, also incorporates elements of a global perspective. Modules like 'Global Health Nutrition' provide students with an understanding of nutrition and health issues on an international scale. The university itself boasts a diverse community with students from over 140 different nationalities, which enriches the learning environment and provides a multicultural experience. While the placements are primarily in the UK, the knowledge and skills gained, particularly in public health nutrition and the understanding of diverse populations, are transferable to a global context, preparing graduates for a range of career paths potentially including international work or research.
Location
Holloway
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 19250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Dietetics and Nutrition program at London Metropolitan University are well-equipped for a diverse range of career paths within the health and nutrition sector. The program's accreditation by the HCPC and BDA directly qualifies graduates to become registered dietitians, opening doors to numerous opportunities.
NHS Dietitian: Many graduates pursue careers in the National Health Service (NHS), working in hospitals, clinics, or community settings. They provide dietary advice and nutritional therapy to patients with a wide variety of medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and more. This role involves assessing nutritional needs, developing personalized meal plans, and monitoring progress.
Community Dietitian: Focusing on public health, community dietitians work with groups and individuals in the community to promote healthy eating habits and prevent nutrition-related diseases. They may work in health centers, schools, or local authorities, developing and delivering health promotion programs.
Pediatric Dietitian: Specializing in the nutritional needs of infants, children, and adolescents, pediatric dietitians work in hospitals or community settings. They address a range of issues, including fussy eating, food allergies, growth problems, and nutritional support for children with chronic illnesses.
Freelance/Private Practice Dietitian: With experience, dietitians can establish their own private practice, offering individualized nutrition consultations to clients. This can involve a range of specialisms, such as weight management, sports nutrition, or managing specific dietary needs.
Food Industry: Graduates can work in the food industry, contributing to product development, nutritional analysis of food products, and ensuring compliance with food labeling regulations. They may work for food manufacturers, retailers, or food service companies.
Nutritionist in Sports and Exercise: While the Dietetics qualification is distinct, the strong foundation in nutrition provided by the degree prepares graduates for roles in sports and exercise nutrition. They can work with athletes of all levels, providing dietary advice to optimize performance and recovery. Further specialized training or registration with a body like the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENR) may be beneficial for this career path.
Research Dietitian/Nutritionist: Graduates with a strong interest in research can work in universities, research institutions, or for food and pharmaceutical companies. They may be involved in conducting studies on the effects of diet on health, evaluating the effectiveness of nutritional interventions, or contributing to the development of evidence-based nutrition guidelines. The research dissertation completed during the degree provides valuable experience in this area.
Public Health Nutritionist: Working for government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or international health organizations, public health nutritionists focus on improving the nutritional status of populations. They develop and implement nutrition policies and programs, addressing issues like food security, malnutrition, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases.
Health Promotion Specialist: Utilizing their knowledge of health and behavior change, graduates can work in health promotion roles, promoting healthy lifestyles and well-being in a variety of settings, including workplaces, schools, and communities.
Academic Roles: With further postgraduate qualifications, graduates can pursue a career in academia, teaching and researching in the fields of dietetics and nutrition at universities or colleges.
