Dietetics

Entry requirements

Applicants must have gained a Bsc Hons second class upper (2:1 classification minimum) in a science based course which has provided substantial background in core science subjects in particular biochemistry and also physiology or equivalent science subjects from a recognised institution or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning. All applications are screened on a case by case basis.

This course is not currently open to overseas applicants due to placement constraints.
Students must be in good health as evidenced from a satisfactory medical report (SENDO compliant). Entry to the course is also subject to a satisfactory criminal record check carried out through AccessNI.

The closing date for applications is 15 January of the year of entry. Each application must be accompanied by a copy of degree transcript, a brief personal statement highlighting the reasons for applying and also two academic references in support of your application which are required for shortlisting. Applications are scored on the information provided and shortlisted for interview. Interviews (in March/April) form part of the selection process at which attendance is required. Interviews cannot be conducted by SKYPE. The number of places available on this course is limited by the availability of dietetics clinical placements. There are currently 5 places.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The overall aim of this master's programme is to provide science graduates with core knowledge and skills to practice as a dietitian and develop advanced research skills. Registered dietitians are qualified health professionals who assess diagnose and treat diet and nutrition problems both at individual and population level. Dietitians use the most up to date research on diet and health which they translate into practical guidance to enable people to make appropriate lifestyle and food choices.

This course is an intensive 20 Masters taught course designed to provide a scientific base in the study of food and nutrition and the effect of diet and health on wellbeing. On completion of this course graduates will be qualified to work as a dietitian and be eligible to register with HCPC/CORU. Graduates will also have advanced research skills having completed an independent reasearch project as part of this degree.

This course is designed for pre-registration training in Dietetics. It is not aimed at qualified dietitians wishing to take a masters research degree. Qualified dietitians are encouraged to apply for the MSc Human Nutrition.

This course is a master's course. It is studied on a full-time basis over 20 months where attendance is required on campus most days each week during semester. During placement attendance is required each day. This course cannot be taken part time.

This course provides study of core modules in human nutrition and dietetics and includes two clinical placement blocks. Year 1 semester 1 (60 credits) and 2 (75 credits) are taught modules in core subjects. Year 1 semester 3 students undertake Human Nutrition Masters research project which is an integral part of the programme where students undertake an independent research project. Clinical placement modules are undertaken in year 2 and are generally within a hospital and/or community setting. Placements are predominantly in Northern Ireland with consolidation tutorials at University between placements. Successful students will be eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for Registration as a dietitian or apply to CORU for validation of qualification to practice as a dietitian in the Republic of Ireland.

Dietetic placements are an integral part of this course. Placements are generally undertaken within hospital and/or community Trusts in Northern Ireland and must be approved by the University in advance of allocation to students.

Information for international students

English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course 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.

Fees and funding

Qualification and course duration

MSc

PGDip

Course contact details