MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
MSc Nutrition and Genetics
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, offers a pioneering MSc Nutrition and Genetics program, notably recognized as the first and only university in the UK to offer a degree specifically combining these two crucial scientific disciplines. This cutting-edge postgraduate degree is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the intricate interactions between human DNA and nutrition. The program emphasizes the progress, advantages, and limitations of personalized nutrition, addressing the growing demand from the NHS and freelance practitioners for expertise in integrating genetic profiling into nutritional advice. It provides students with both theoretical knowledge and the necessary practical skills associated with molecular nutrition techniques, preparing them for a future where personalized healthcare is increasingly prevalent.
Curriculum: The MSc Nutrition and Genetics curriculum at St. Mary's is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of this interdisciplinary field. Core modules typically include "Principles of Molecular Biology," "Genetics in Health and Disease," "Nutrient-Gene Interactions," "Genetics and Personalised Nutrition," "Applied Personalised Nutrition," 1 and "Genetic Tests in Nutrition." These modules delve into topics such as DNA, RNA, gene structure and function, single nucleotide polymorphisms, mutations, epigenetics, and how genetic factors may interact with diet to influence the development or progression of chronic diseases like obesity and cardiovascular disease. A significant component of the program is the "Research Project," which allows students to conduct in-depth research in an area of their interest, potentially even at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, as part of an Erasmus exchange program.
Research Focus: The Biosciences laboratory at St. Mary's University is a key facility that houses the Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics research group, directly supporting the MSc Nutrition and Genetics program. The research focuses on various aspects of human, nutrition, and wider chemistry science, including molecular nutrition techniques, molecular biology, genetic profiling, and nutrigenomics. Faculty members are actively involved in research exploring how genetic factors interact with diet and affect disease development, individual nutrient requirements, and the ethical and legal considerations of nutrigenomic research and practice. The laboratory is equipped with advanced tools such as PCR machines, thermocyclers, and ELISA plate readers, facilitating hands-on research experience and contributing to the advancement of personalized nutrition.
Industry Engagement: St. Mary's University demonstrates strong industry engagement within the MSc Nutrition and Genetics program, largely driven by the practical relevance and unique focus of the degree. The program explicitly highlights the "shift to personalised medicine already underway" within NHS England and the growing need among freelance dietitians and nutritionists to incorporate genetics into their consultations. The curriculum combines elements from research, enterprise, and NHS recommendations, ensuring that graduates are prepared for real-world demands. While formal work placements aren't explicitly detailed as a mandatory component, the program's emphasis on practical skills, molecular nutrition techniques, and the opportunity to conduct research projects, sometimes through international exchange, means students are actively engaged with industry-relevant methodologies and current practices in personalized nutrition.
Global Perspective: The MSc Nutrition and Genetics program at St. Mary's University incorporates a global perspective by addressing a field that is rapidly expanding worldwide. The concept of "personalised nutrition," which is central to the program, is a global trend, with the UK being a leading country in consumer interest for using genetics in nutritional advice. The opportunity for students to carry out their research project at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, as part of an Erasmus exchange program, provides a direct international dimension to the curriculum. Furthermore, the scientific principles of molecular biology, genetics, and nutrition explored in the program are universal, enabling graduates to contribute to research and practice in personalized nutrition across diverse international healthcare and research environments.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 17850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
The MSc Nutrition and Genetics program at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, is at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field, making its graduates uniquely positioned for specialized roles. As the first and only program in the UK to specifically combine these two disciplines, it provides an in-depth understanding of how human DNA interacts with nutrition, crucial for the emerging field of personalized medicine. Graduates gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical molecular nutrition techniques to interpret genetic profiles and tailor nutritional advice, addressing a growing demand in healthcare and private practice. This cutting-edge qualification prepares individuals for a future where bespoke health solutions are increasingly integral.
Personalized Nutritionist/Dietitian: Providing individualized dietary advice based on a client's genetic profile, lifestyle, and health goals, working in private practice, wellness clinics, or specialized healthcare settings.
Nutrigenomics Research Scientist: Conducting research in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or biotechnology firms, investigating the interactions between genes and nutrients, and their impact on health and disease.
Clinical Research Coordinator (Nutrition/Genetics): Managing and overseeing clinical trials related to nutrition and genetics, ensuring adherence to protocols, data collection, and ethical guidelines.
Product Development Scientist (Food/Supplement Industry): Developing new food products or dietary supplements based on nutrigenomic principles, focusing on personalized nutrition solutions for specific genetic predispositions.
Genetic Counsellor (with Nutritional Specialism): While requiring further specific training in genetic counselling, this MSc provides an excellent foundation for roles that involve explaining genetic test results to clients and discussing nutritional implications.
Healthcare Scientist (Genomics/Clinical Biochemistry): Working in NHS or private laboratories, analyzing genetic samples and biochemical markers to aid in disease diagnosis, prognosis, and guiding personalized nutritional interventions.
Scientific/Medical Writer: Communicating complex scientific information about nutrition, genetics, and personalized medicine to a wider audience through articles, reports, educational materials, or marketing content for healthcare companies.
Health and Wellness Coach (with Genetic Focus): Guiding individuals towards healthier lifestyles, integrating genetic insights into their coaching approach to create more effective and tailored wellness plans.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist (Food/Nutrition): Ensuring that food and nutrition products, particularly those with health claims related to genetics, comply with national and international regulations.
Academia/Lecturer: Pursuing further doctoral studies (e.g., PhD) and teaching nutrition, genetics, or related subjects at universities, contributing to the education of future professionals and to the advancement of the field through research.
