Human Nutrition MSc — 2027 entry

On our MSc Human Nutrition, you'll study a research-led curriculum, including carrying out your own original research, and develop a deep understanding of current issues in the field of human nutrition.

Key course information

Typical offer
2:2 minimum
Start date
September 2027
Attendance
Full-time
Duration
1 year
Scholarships
Funding available
UK fees
拢11,800
Overseas fees
拢19,300

Why choose this course?

  • Access our multi-million-pound biomedical laboratories, kitted out with the latest industry equipment, to measure rates of synthesis, disposal and conversion of metabolites.
  • Learn from lecturers who have been awarded a Queen Elizabeth Prize (formerly Queen鈥檚 Anniversary Prize) for Further and Higher Education in recognition of their research excellence in the field of food and nutrition.
  • Join one of our research groups to take part in seminars and workshops, and benefit from our links with renowned research institutions across the world.
  • Get the academic requirements needed to register with the to work as an associate nutritionist once you鈥檝e graduated.
  • We鈥檙e preparing you for the future by integrating AI into every course, building digital skills, confidence and creativity that employers value in tomorrow鈥檚 workplace.
Find out more information

Statistics

100%

Of our biosciences graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2026, HESA)

Accreditation

Association for Nutrition logo

Course details

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What you will study

On our masters in human nutrition, you鈥檒l investigate the evidence-based links between diet, health and disease, supported by a full appreciation for the nutritional mechanisms involved.鈥痀ou鈥檒l鈥痙evelop your knowledge and scientific research skills to an advanced level,鈥痯reparing you for a career in nutritional sciences.

You鈥檒l study topics, including the fundamentals of human nutrition, international and public health nutrition, metabolic nutrition,鈥痬olecular nutrition, and鈥痵ports and exercise nutrition.

You鈥檒l also undertake your own original research, and we鈥檒l supervise you to carry out experiments and projects on important topics in the field. We鈥檒l match your interests with the expertise of our researchers, ensuring you get the best support.鈥痀ou鈥檒l also be part of ongoing research activity at 黑料社.

Professional recognition

MSc - Association for Nutrition (AfN)
Accredited by the Association for Nutrition (AfN) for the purpose of eligibility for Direct Entry Registration at Associate Level with the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists (UKVRN).

Research groups

You鈥檒l be invited to join one of鈥痮ur鈥�research groups focusing on metabolic鈥痬edicine,鈥痜ood and鈥痬acronutrients, and鈥痯ublic鈥痟ealth and鈥痜ood鈥痵ecurity. You鈥檒l participate in discussions about research topics, findings and publications, and鈥痽ou鈥檒l benefit from our links with renowned research institutions across the world.

We also have a host of external speakers that visit us and present their work, and a collection of seminars and workshops, allowing you to network with like-minded individuals.

Facilities

You鈥檒l get access to鈥痮ur鈥�multi-million-pound biomedical laboratories, kitted out with the latest industry equipment.鈥疶his includes our Stable Isotope-based Analysis Core Facility,鈥痺here we use stable isotope tracers and mass spectrometry鈥痶o measure rates of synthesis, disposal and conversion of metabolites.

Course structure

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The structure of our programmes follows clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the which include further details such as the learning outcomes:

Modules

Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand, and/or class size caps.

The University operates a credit framework for all taught courses based on a 15-credit tariff, meaning all modules are comprised of multiples of 15 credits.

Please note that modules are listed by the academic calendar and are reflective of a September start date. For students that start a programme in February, the modules listed as semester two will take place in the spring term and modules listed as semester one will take place in the autumn term.

Course options

Year 1

Semester 1

Compulsory

FUNDAMENTALS OF HUMAN NUTRITION

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This module is designed to equip students with the core knowledge of energy and the nutrients as a foundation to further nutrition modules within the MSc Nutrition programme.  It will also develop key academic skills for learning, research and communication at an advanced level. 

NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT

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  This module is designed to give students exposure to the practical methods of dietary and nutritional status assessment.  Many of these techniques are used in clinical nutrition, nutrition research, surveys and individual and population monitoring.    By the end of this module students will be able to critically evaluate the use and appropriateness of assessment methods in a variety of settings

METABOLIC NUTRITION

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This module examines the critical role of energy balance in the control of body weight, with focus on physiological mechanisms of appetite regulation, energy intake and expenditure in relation to weight gain and obesity. It evaluates the links between excess body fat and cardiovascular disease (CVD) and explains how these links result from adverse changes in lipid metabolism and the molecular physiology of adipose tissue. These topics are then addressed within the context of how diet and lifestyle can promote and protect against the development of CVD, with critical appraisal of the evidence for the specific impacts of weight-loss and dietary macronutrients.  

NUTRITION RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

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The module provides an overview of Nutrition Research Methodology with a specific focus on the examination of the various types of research designs used in nutrition research including observational, experimental and systematic reviews & meta-analyses. The main purpose of this module is to equip students with the tools needed to confidently undertake their own research, including research design, recruitment, power, analysis and ethical issues.   By the end of this module all students will produce an original research protocol suitable to undertake as their own research project in MHUM009 following ethical approval (if applicable). 

Semester 2

Compulsory

INTERNATIONAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH NUTRITION

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The module develops the students鈥� understanding as to the translation of nutrition science into population health, policy and guidelines.驴 It gives a global perspective on nutrition related public health issues of current concern, and aims to develop critical thinking and application.驴 The module is taught by a combination of internal and guest lecturers providing insight from a national and international perspective  

MOLECULAR NUTRITION

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This module explores the molecular and genetic basis of nutrients in health and disease.  Taught by a collective expertise within the University鈥檚 School of Biosciences, students will be well equipped with the fundamentals of molecular biology and how this is applied to current research and understanding in nutrition.  By the end of the module, students will be able to critically appraise topical research in this area and evaluate how new knowledge helps underpin current understanding of disease. 

SPORTS AND EXERCISE NUTRITION

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This module focuses on the application of nutrition to sports and exercise.  The module begins with an introduction to exercise physiology both theoretical and practical before exploring the role of energy and nutrients during exercise. Content is taught using a collection of in-house and external speakers.  By the end of the module students will be confident in how to apply nutrition principles in a sport and exercise setting. 

NUTRITION PROFESSIONALISM IN PRACTICE

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This module focuses on developing the relationship between knowledge, professional skills and the practical application of working within a nutritionally related environment. The module will run over a period of four weeks, and the student is expected to attend the teaching and interactive sessions throughout the four week period. Students will be working together within teams and key communication skills and professionalism are key areas of development. This module is supported by a combination of direct teaching, as well as guided and independent learning. Students will be expected to liaise regularly with their peers and to contribute to group workshops equally. This module contains core Competency requirements to meet AfN requirements membership.

Across academic years

Compulsory

RESEARCH PROJECT

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This module allows the student to engage in an in-depth major project in an area relevant for nutritional science in the 21st Century. Projects may involve direct data collection, analysis of pre-existing datasets or 鈥渂ig-data鈥�, systematic reviews/meta-analysis or involve writing a research grant application to answer a pertinent nutritional question. Students may be attached to NHS units, to staff or research teams within the Department of Nutritional Sciences, but also in other areas in the wider University, including psychology. Students will be guided to undertake a project in an area of interest or in an area proposed by a University supervisor(s).

Module selection for Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Level 7

Students must pass a minimum of 15 credits from Semester 1 and achieve an overall pass mark (50%) across all Semester 1 modules to progress to the Original Research Project (MHUM009)

Teaching and learning

You鈥檒l be taught by鈥痚xperts鈥痺ho are active researchers in diabetes, lipid metabolism, cardiovascular risk, bone health, vitamin D, selenium and iodine, appetite and the gut, obesity, and exercise nutrition, ensuring everything you learn is up-to-date and relevant to鈥痚mployers.

You鈥檒l also learn from鈥痩ecturers鈥痺ho were awarded the鈥�Queen Elizabeth Prize (formerly Queen's Anniversary Prize) 2017鈥�18 for Further and Higher Education, in recognition of their research excellence in the field of food and nutrition.鈥疶hese may鈥痠nclude:

  • Dr Adam Collins,鈥痑 qualified鈥痭utritionist for over 20 years and an expert in obesity, weight loss, body composition and sports nutrition
  • Dr Barbara Fielding,鈥痑n鈥痚xpert in lipid metabolism and isotope tracers
  • Professor Bruce Griffin,鈥痑 qualified鈥痭utritionist and world-leading expert on the effects of diet on cardiometabolic risk.

Learning methods

  • Group work
  • Laboratory work
  • Lectures
  • Online learning
  • Tutorials

Assessment

We use a variety of methods to assess you, including coursework, essays, examinations and presentations.

Check individual module information to see full details at a module level.

General course information

Contact hours

Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the 黑料社's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.

Timetable

Taught and practical sessions are scheduled across four days of the working week (Monday鈥揊riday), with Wednesdays allocated for self-study. Outside of scheduled hours, you鈥檒l be expected to carry out independent study, including coursework, essays, laboratory write-ups and reading.

New students will receive their personalised timetable during Welcome Week. In later semesters, at least one week before the start of the semester.

View our code of practice for the scheduling of teaching and assessment (PDF) for more information.

Location

This course is based at Stag Hill campus. Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught. 

Career opportunities

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We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.

100%
Employability

Of our biosciences graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2026, HESA).

Our Human Nutrition MSc is accredited by the . This鈥痬eans you鈥檒l be eligible to apply for direct entry into the UK Voluntary Register of鈥疦utritionists鈥痶o鈥痺ork as an associate nutritionist (ANutr) on successful completion of your studies.

Once you鈥檝e gained three years of post-degree professional experience, you鈥檒l be eligible to apply for registered nutritionist status (RNutr). ANutr and鈥疪Nutr鈥痭utritionists are the only evidence-based nutritionists recognised by NHS England, research and academia, the food industry, professional and elite sport, and most charities and non-government organisations in the UK and overseas.

Our alumni take on roles as nutritionists and healthcare assistants, working鈥痜or NHS trusts, food production companies, Government departments, nutrition organisations, sports clubs and start-ups.

The skills you鈥檒l鈥痝ain are also highly relevant in other fields,鈥痠ncluding鈥痗onsultancy and pharmaceuticals. Many of our graduates go on to complete a PhD, investigating an area of personal interest.

Learn鈥痬ore about nutrition careers on the鈥�.

Hear from our students and graduates

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Entry requirements

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UK qualifications

A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree in anatomy, biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, biological sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, dietetics, forensic science, medicine, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, pharmacy, physiology or veterinary, or a recognised equivalent international qualification.

We'll also consider substantial relevant work experience if you don't meet these requirements.

Professional qualifications in medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine can also be considered.

Not accepted: Food quality and safety or food science and engineering.

Country-specific qualifications

International students in the United Kingdom

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English language requirements

IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.

These are the English language qualifications and levels that we can accept.

If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.


Selection process

Selection will be based upon the candidate鈥檚 application. Applications that do not meet the standard criteria are referred to the admissions tutor.

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

We recognise that many students enter their course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of ways.

If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning process may mean you can join a course without the formal entry requirements, or at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience.

There are restrictions on some courses, and fees may be payable for certain claims. Please with any queries.

Fees and funding

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Fees per year

Explore  website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the list of fees for all postgraduate courses.

Fee options

UK
拢11,800
Overseas
拢19,300
  • Fees for part-time routes are applicable in each year of the course
  • These fees apply to the academic year 2027-28 only. Fees are reviewed annually, and tuition fees may increase for courses running over more than one year.

Read our tuition fees guidance to find out more about payment schedules and how to pay.

Additional costs

Safety equipment and/or uniform: 拢40.50 鈥� equipment pack (includes apron, laboratory coat, laboratory safety glasses, laboratory books, lab pens and bag). You are responsible for the costs associated with maintaining/washing/replacing any equipment.

For the dissertation/project, you may need to spend money on food or other things, which can be claimed back. This is usually less than 拢100.

Find out more about additional costs that may be incurred during your time at 黑料社.

Funding

You may be able to borrow money to help pay your tuition fees and support you with your living costs. Find out more about postgraduate student finance.

Register your interest

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UK applications

Human Nutrition MSc

Full-time, 12 months, September 2027

UK status

UK applications:
open
Closing date:
Tuesday 31 August 2027
Select

Please note that we may have to close applications before the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We advise you to submit your application as soon as it is ready.

Overseas applications

Human Nutrition MSc

Full-time, 12 months, September 2027

UK status

Overseas applications:
open
Closing date:
Friday 23 July 2027
Select

Please note that we may have to close applications before the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We advise you to submit your application as soon as it is ready.

Admissions information

Once you apply, you can expect to hear back from us within 14 days. This might be with a decision on your application or with a request for further information.

Our code of practice for postgraduate taught admissions explains how the Admissions team considers applications and admits students. Read our postgraduate applicant guidance for more information on applying.

Need more information?

Contact our Admissions team or talk to a current 黑料社 student online.

Terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the 黑料社, you will be agreeing to follow our policies and procedures, student regulations, and terms and conditions.

We provide these terms and conditions at the offer stage. You will be asked to accept these when you accept the offer made to you. You will be provided with these terms and conditions again at registration by way of reminder.

Disclaimer

This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.

Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate; some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.