PMHUMNPH - MSc Human Nutrition (Public Health / Sports)

The course provides advanced study opportunities in human nutrition that include research methods, nutritional epidemiology and public health and assessment of nutritional status. Specialist modules include sports and exercise nutrition, exercise and health, politics and policy. In order to obtain their MSc, students must undertake a research project and write a dissertation about the research. The course builds on students’ previous experience in appropriate first degree courses.

The course is accredited by the Association for Nutrition/Nutrition Society and graduates will be able to register as “Associate Nutritionists” on application to the Association.

Course Structure
The MSc is a one-year full-time course, involving 30 weeks of taught modules divided into two 15-week semesters commencing in either September or February. The part-time mode follows a similar pattern over two years.

As a full-time student you will take six taught modules plus the research dissertation.

i. To provide a program of study that offers advanced training for graduates which will equip them for roles in the field of public health or sports nutrition

ii. To further develop a critical approach to existing knowledge and current research in nutrition in relation to nutrition, particularly in relation to public health and sport

iii. To advance student’s practical experience thus enabling the students to reflect upon personal, professional and practical aspects of healthcare, particularly in relation to nutrition.

iv. To enable students to become effective learners/practitioners in their career path by developing cross-functional personal skills and capabilities.

Knowledge and understanding

i. Critically evaluate the evidence base underpinning current approaches to nutritional care with particular emphasis on obesity, undernutrition or sports nutrition

Ii Demonstrate an understanding of the application of nutrition theory to practice in current healthcare systems at an advanced level.

iii. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the economic aspects of delivering healthcare in relation to obesity ,diabetes and cardiovascular disease at the individual and population level.

iv. Evaluate ethical issues of relevance to nutrition

Cognitive/intellectual skills

i. Critically evaluate aspects of nutrition to show an understanding of the limitations of the scientific study of nutritional knowledge.

ii. Communicate effectively (both verbally and written) original scientific material to both academic and lay audiences

iii. Design and execute an extensive research project relevant to public health nutrition or sports nutrition (MSc only).

iv. Develop higher capabilities in practical skills relevant to nutrition research.

Transferable skills

i. Communicate an advanced understanding of nutrition so as to be able to contribute more broadly within the multidisciplinary health care team.

ii. Work independently and as part of a group and meet deadlines.

iii. Demonstrate competence in the use of a range of IT software packages.

iv. Demonstrate critical and analytical skills at a higher level.

Subject specific practical skills

i. Design a framework for nutrition care for individuals or groups with relevant medical conditions.

ii. Interrogate and analyse large datasets relevant to nutrition, using appropriate statistical techniques.

iii. Plan, execute and critically evaluate nutrition research.

iv. Make effective use of a range of IT software packages.

Knowledge and understanding

i. Critically evaluate the evidence base underpinning current approaches to nutritional care with particular emphasis on obesity, under-nutrition or sports nutrition
Ii Demonstrate an understanding of the application of nutrition theory to practice in current healthcare systems at an advanced level.
iii. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the economic aspects of delivering healthcare in relation to obesity , diabetes and cardiovascular disease at the individual and population level.
iv. Evaluate ethical issues of relevance to nutrition:

NF7041, NF7044, NF7010,

Cognitive/intellectual skills

i. Critically evaluate aspects of nutrition to show an understanding of the limitations of the scientific study of nutritional knowledge.
ii. Communicate effectively (both verbally and written) original scientific material to both academic and lay audiences
iii. Design and execute an extensive research project relevant to public health nutrition or sports nutrition (NF7P16)
iv. Develop higher capabilities in practical skills relevant to nutrition research:

NF7015, NF7011, NF7034, NF7041, NF7P16

Transferable skills

i. Communicate an advanced understanding of nutrition so as to be able to contribute more broadly within the multidisciplinary health care team.
ii. Work independently and as part of a group and meet deadlines.
iii. Demonstrate competence in the use of a range of IT software packages.
iv. Demonstrate critical and analytical skills at a higher level:

NF7015, NF7044, NF7034, NFP014

Subject specific practical skills

i. Design a framework for nutrition care for individuals or groups with relevant medical conditions.
ii. Interrogate and analyse large datasets relevant to nutrition, using appropriate statistical techniques.
iii. Plan, execute and critically evaluate nutrition research.
iv. Make effective use of a range of IT software packages:

NF7015, NF7P16, NF7044

Although there are no QAA (Quality Assurance Agency) benchmark statements for International Public Health Nutrition at Postgraduate level, course outcomes are in line with Generic QAA (Quality Assurance Agency) guidelines on Masters level qualifications.

A range of assessment methods will be used in the MSc, with the choice of assessment instrument chosen to test the specified learning outcomes. Assessment is the responsibility of the academic staff delivering the module. Assessment is part of the learning process and confirms the outcomes of the learning process. As such, the assessment process is used to provide an insight into learning problems and to thus trigger remedial action. It also provides feedback on curriculum design and delivery and, via the ongoing iterative process of module monitoring, makes a significant contribution to the continued development and improvement of the courses.

A variety of assessment methods will be used (see syllabi) including unseen written examinations, individual and group assignments. Laboratory and computer based investigations, poster and oral presentations and an extended project with viva voce.

n/a

The course conforms to both the University’s Postgraduate Scheme and the University Academic Regulations.

PG cert to include NF7010, NF7015 and any other module

The course has been accredited by AfN since 2011.

Career opportunities include employment in the food industry, research, the media and charitable organisations. Graduates are well placed to apply for research studentships with a view to completing a PhD. Career opportunities are increasing in both fields.

The normal academic standard for entry is:

• A Lower Second (2.2) UK first degree in nutrition or a related subject such as biochemistry, sports science or physiology.
• Other related subjects will be considered on an individual basis.
• Equivalent overseas qualifications will also be accepted.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.