Dietetics

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to have achieved BSc Hons Science degree, 2:1 classification which contains a substantive component of biochemistry and physiology or equivalent related science subjects which demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals in biosciences and also have studied research skills and methodology within a previous degree or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning.

EU students are eligible to apply. However 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) and entry is also subject to a satisfactory criminal record check carried out through AccessNI.

The closing date for applications is 15th January of the year of entry. Each application form must be accompanied by a copy of degree transcript, two academic references and a 500-word supporting statement to clearly outline why you are applying for this programme and relevant information to support your application, all of which is used to select students for interview. Please note that it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that 2 written references are uploaded by closing date: names of 2 referees is not sufficient. Interviews (in March/April) form part of the selection process at which attendance in person is usually required. There are currently 10 places: 5 places of which are part-funded by Department of Health NI (135 credits) and self funded for remaining modules (180 credits). 5 places are self-funded and students required to pay for the full course fees and placement expenses. Students living in GB are not eligible for this bursary due to regulations by DoHNI. Further information on admissions process and fees can be obtained from Course Director or Admissions Office, Coleraine

Months of entry

September

Course content

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).

On completion of this course, graduates will be eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for registration as a dietitian 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 10 places on this programme, closing date for applications is 15th January of the year of entry.