MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
MSc Human Nutrition
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, offers an MSc Human Nutrition program that is accredited by both the Association for Nutrition (AfN) and the Hong Kong Nutritionists Society (HKNS). This postgraduate degree is designed for bio-science graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of human health through the lens of nutrition. The program provides comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical skills, addressing crucial topics such as metabolism, nutrition policy, chronic disease management, and life cycle nutrition. Its flexible structure, with options for part-time study, is particularly beneficial for those balancing work commitments, preparing graduates for roles in community nutrition, public health, and health promotion. Successful completion of the MSc allows direct entry to the UK Voluntary Register for Nutritionists (UKVRN) as an Associate Nutritionist.
Curriculum: The MSc Human Nutrition curriculum at St. Mary's is designed to build a robust understanding of nutritional science and its applications. Core modules typically include "Principles of Human Nutrition I & II," covering the fundamental aspects of macro and micronutrients, dietary standards, and nutritional assessment. "Food and Nutrition Policy and Health Promotion" explores public health nutrition policy and health promotion strategies, while "Nutrition and Chronic Disease" examines the relationship between diet and various chronic illnesses. "Life Cycle Nutrition" focuses on dietary requirements across different age groups. The program also includes "Professional Skills" to develop academic and personal competencies, and culminates in a "Research Study" (60 credits) where students undertake an independent research project. Optional modules like "Nutrigenomics" and "Sports Nutrition" allow for specialization.
Research Focus: The research focus within the MSc Human Nutrition program is largely informed by the expertise of the faculty in the Faculty of Sport, Health and Applied Science, who are actively engaged in research that directly underpins the course content. While there isn't a single dedicated research center specifically for Human Nutrition, the broad research areas within the faculty encompass nutrition and genetics, lifestyle management, and the treatment and prevention of chronic diseases. This academic environment ensures that the curriculum is evidence-based and current with the latest scientific advancements in nutrition. The substantial "Research Study" module allows students to delve into specific areas of human nutrition, conducting high-quality research under expert supervision and contributing to the body of knowledge in the field.
Industry Engagement: St. Mary's University emphasizes industry engagement for its MSc Human Nutrition students, although specific mandatory placements are not explicitly outlined for the postgraduate program. The AfN and HKNS accreditation signifies that the program meets professional standards, enhancing graduate employability. The curriculum includes a "Professional Skills" module designed to develop academic, professional, and personal development skills required of nutrition practitioners, often delivered through seminars and workshops. Graduates from St. Mary's nutrition programs have gone on to work in various settings, including community and public health organizations, food advocacy, and the food industry, demonstrating effective industry pathways established through the program's relevance and the university's connections.
Global Perspective: The MSc Human Nutrition program incorporates a global perspective by addressing universal health challenges and nutritional principles that transcend national borders. The curriculum, especially modules like "Food and Nutrition Policy and Health Promotion," often discusses public health nutrition policies and strategies from an international standpoint, considering global inequalities and diverse dietary practices. The AfN and HKNS accreditation also provides an international dimension, particularly enabling graduates to register in Hong Kong, alongside the UK. The scientific principles of human nutrition and their impact on health are globally applicable, preparing graduates to contribute to public health initiatives and nutrition-related roles in various international contexts.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 18750
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.
An MSc in Human Nutrition from St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, provides a robust and professionally accredited pathway into the diverse field of nutrition. Accredited by the Association for Nutrition (AfN) and the Hong Kong Nutritionists Society (HKNS), this postgraduate degree is specifically designed for bio-science graduates and offers comprehensive knowledge in areas such as metabolism, nutrition policy, chronic disease management, and life cycle nutrition. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and allows direct entry to the UK Voluntary Register for Nutritionists (UKVRN) as an Associate Nutritionist, positioning graduates for impactful careers in public health, community nutrition, the food industry, and research.
Associate Nutritionist (ANutr): Directly after graduation, individuals can register with the UKVRN as an Associate Nutritionist, working under supervision to provide evidence-based nutritional advice in various settings. With three years of post-degree experience, they can apply for Registered Nutritionist (RNutr) status.
Public Health Nutritionist: Working within local authorities, government agencies, or non-governmental organizations to develop and implement nutrition policies, health promotion campaigns, and community-based interventions aimed at improving the nutritional health of populations.
Community Nutritionist: Delivering nutrition education and advice to specific community groups, such as schools, care homes, or vulnerable populations, often focusing on promoting healthy eating habits and preventing diet-related diseases.
Food Industry Nutritionist: Working for food manufacturers, retailers, or catering companies in roles related to product development, nutritional labeling, regulatory compliance, marketing, or advising on healthy food options.
Nutrition Researcher: Pursuing further academic study (e.g., a PhD) or working in research institutions, universities, or the food industry to conduct studies on the impact of diet on health, nutrient metabolism, or new nutritional interventions.
Health Promotion Specialist: Developing and delivering health education programs and resources, often with a focus on nutrition, within the NHS, local councils, or private health organizations, to encourage healthy lifestyles.
Sports Nutritionist (with further specialization): While the MSc Human Nutrition provides a strong foundation, an optional module in Sports Nutrition can lead to roles advising athletes on diet for performance, recovery, and body composition, often requiring additional sport-specific qualifications or supervised practice (e.g., SENR registration).
Freelance Nutrition Consultant: Establishing a private practice to offer personalized nutrition advice to individuals or consult for businesses, drawing upon scientific knowledge to create tailored dietary plans and wellness programs.
Nutrition Writer/Communicator: Working in media, publishing, or for health organizations to create engaging and scientifically accurate content about nutrition for websites, magazines, books, or social media.
Scientific Officer (Government/Regulatory Bodies): Contributing to the scientific assessment of food safety, dietary guidelines, or nutrition claims for government bodies or regulatory agencies, ensuring public health is protected.
