Dietetics

The overall aim of the pre-registration MSc Dietetics programme is to provide science graduates with core knowledge, and professional competencies to practice as a registered dietitian (RD) and also develop advanced research skills.



Registered dietitians are qualified and regulated health professionals who assess diagnose and treat diet and nutrition problems both at individual and population level. Dietitians use the most up to date public health and scientific research on food, health and disease which they translate into practical guidance to enable people to make appropriate lifestyle and food choices.



This 20 month accelerated programme builds on prior learning and provides students with a practical and scientific understanding in the study of food and nutrition and the effect of diet and health on wellbeing. Students undertake modules in: Applied Nutrition, Biochemistry and Molecular Approaches to Nutrition, Food Science and Microbiology, Research methods and Biostatistics, Nutritional Assessment, Recommendations and Requirements, Diet and Disease, Public Health and Nutrition Behaviour and an independent research project. Modules provide learning and teaching of relevant disease aetiology, pathology, biochemistry and management which is then applied throughout dietetic practice placements to promote health and treat acute and long term conditions to achieve effective care for service users and become an autonomous practitioner, ready for employment in a range of health and care settings (including the NHS).



Successful completion of this course confers graduates eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or apply to CORU as part of the recognition process for validation of qualification to practice as a dietitian in the Republic of Ireland. The course is also accredited by the British Dietetic Association (BDA). Graduates will also have advanced research skills having completed an independent research project as part of this degree.



There are currently 5 places on this programme, however the University is working with placement providers to increase this number. Closing date for applications is 15th January of the year of entry.



Work placement / study abroad

Practice based learning is an integral part of this programme. Placements are generally undertaken within hospital and/or health care Trusts in Northern Ireland and are approved by the University. Students are allocated placement locations which are approved by the University.



Placements are unpaid and full time (37 hours/week). Practice based learning settings are approved by HCPC therefore graduates from this programme are eligible to apply for registration with the Statutory Regulator for Dietitians, the HCPC. The course is also accredited by the British Dietetic Association.



This professional course is a taught full-time programme over 20 continuous months which includes human nutrition research project and dietetic practice placements. This is an intensive programme which requires regular daily attendance during semester, typically 20-25 timetabled hours each week . Dietetic practice placements are unpaid for 28 weeks which require full time (37 hours/week) attendance. This course cannot be taken part time or distance learning.



Revalidation

The University regularly ‘refreshes’ courses to make sure they are as up-to-date as possible.



In addition it undertakes formal periodic review of courses in a process called 'revalidation’ to ensure that they continue to meet standards and are current and relevant.



This course will be revalidated in the near future and it is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described in this prospectus.



Professional recognition

British Dietetic Association (BDA)

Accredited by the British Dietetic Association (BDA) as delivering the approved pre-registration curriculum framework. Provides eligibility to apply for HCPC registration as a dietitian.



Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for the purpose of providing eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC as a dietitian.

Year one

• Dietetics Professional Practice GT

• Applied Nutrition

• Biochemistry and Molecular Approaches to Nutrition

• Diet and Disease

• Public Health and Nutrition Communication

• Research Methods and Biostatistics for Nutritional Sciences

• Nutrition Research Project

• Nutritional Assessment



Optional Modules

• Nutritional Metabolism in Sports and Exercise

• Food and Health

• Nutritional Controversies

• Food Science & Microbiology



Year two

• Dietetics Practice-Based Learning 1

• Dietetics Practice-Based Learning 2

• Clinical Competency in Dietetics

• Professional Competency in Dietetics

Virtual live interviews are in March/April; dates are to be confirmed.



This course is not open to overseas applicants, due to placement constraints. However, if you are an EU National living in Northern Ireland with EU settlement status, you may apply.



Qualifications

BSc Hons Science degree, 2:1 classification which contains a substantive component of biochemistry and physiology or equivalent related science subjects that demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals in biosciences and have studied research skills and methodology within a previous degree.



Essential supporting documentation for shortlisting

500-word supporting statement – to be included within the Personal Statement section of the application form, clearly outlining why you are applying for this programme and any other relevant information to support your application.



Once your application is received you will be emailed further instructions on how to supply the following documents:



Copies of degree certificate and transcripts. Transcripts to date for those who have not completed their degree.



Two written Academic references.

Copy of your passport.



AccessNI and Health Assessment

Students must be in good health as evidenced by a satisfactory medical report (SENDO compliant) and entry is also subject to a satisfactory criminal record check through AccessNI. Further details will be provided to successful applicants.



Other

There are 5 places part-funded by the Department of Health NI (135 credits) and the remaining modules (180 credits) are self-funded. Additionally, there are 1-5 fully self-funded places (students fund all modules). Students living in GB are noteligible for this part-funding due to regulations by DoHNI. Further information on the admissions process and fees can be obtained from the Course Director, Dr. Alyson Hill aj.hill@ulster.ac.uk, or the Admissions Office, Coleraine admissionsce@ulster.ac.uk



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for students whose first language is not English

The minimum requirement is Academic IELTS 7.0 with no band score less than 6.5. Graduates must be able to communicate in English to the equivalent of IELTS level 7 with no element below 6.5 to apply for registration with HCPC.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

20 months, full-time.

Start Date: September 2025

Career options

The academic content of the programme together with the experience gained from practice based learning leads to excellent employment opportunities. There are excellent opportunities for graduate dietitians in hospitals, community or public health as well as the food industry, research, sports or to pursue a higher research degree (PhD) in the area of human nutrition.