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Human Nutrition

Developing your understanding of the principles underlying human nutritional requirements throughout life, in health and disease.

For more information about this course please visit the School of Science, Society and Management website.

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In recent times consumers have become increasingly interested in the food they eat and how it influences their health. This interest has led to a large increase in the amount of nutrition information available to us, whether from official sources or rather more dubious publications. It is often difficult for members of the public to understand all this information and this is one factor which may have contributed to the increase in diet related diseases in the Western world.

Nutrition is fundamental to health. The health of an individual is inextricably linked to one's eating habit, environment, genetics, our social circumstances, beliefs and lifestyle. It is important that there is a scientific and synergistic approach to the delivery of Human Nutrition as a subject and there has never been a greater need for us to understand the integration of these factors.

As a student taking this course you will be confronted by some of the scientific, moral and ethical questions that are raised through the study of nutrition.

Our approach to teaching and learning is particularly supportive. The use of information technology is essential to the modern workplace, and your studies will give you an opportunity to make full use of computer software and applications. Throughout the programme you will be encouraged to develop your personal and professional skills with particular focus being given to the opportunity to explore future career options.

There is an increasing demand for multi-skilled graduates with knowledge of nutrition and health who can find employment in a variety of settings including the health service, local authorities, public health units, the food and leisure industry as well as numerous non-governmental organisations such as the food and drink federation. Graduates of the BSc Human Nutrition programme will fulfil these criteria.

Girl eating an apple

Course Structure and Content

BSc Human Nutrition is a specialised award, meaning that most of the modules are compulsory. However, in order for students to tailor their degree towards future career aspirations or interests there are some module options in years 2 and 3. We also encourage you to take short placements and voluntary work during your time here and all students will undertake a research project in year 3.

You will be taught by a small core lecturing team; however we have a number of visiting expert lecturers who take both lectures and seminars on their areas of expertise.

Year 1

Year 1 develops a sound knowledge of the science that underpins the study of nutrition and factors that impinge on human health. You will be introduced to a broad range of public health strategies designed to promote behaviour change. Emphasis is given to key skills including communication (both written and oral), problem solving and the use of a range of laboratory and ICT techniques, including specialist diet analysis software.

Year 1 Modules

Year 2

You will build upon your knowledge from Year 1 and apply it to aspects of human nutrition investigating the role of diet and physical activity in normal health and as a risk factor in health disorders. Importantly you will gain an understanding of the ethical and professional framework you will work within as a graduate of a human nutrition degree. You will be trained in research methodology, and increasingly you will become an independent and autonomous learner.

You will explore future careers through an optional, but encouraged, work placement in a Professional Studies module which is a compulsory module in Year 2.

Year 2 Modules

Year 3

In your final year you will critically explore the complex nature of both issues related to dietary intake and the acquisition of human health. You will also build upon the food modules in Years 1 and 2 and this will culminate in Year 3 with food safety, including the safe handling and preparation of food and familiarity with related legislation. The primary research investigation is an important part of your studies in Year 3 and this will enable you to integrate the practical and theoretical aspects of diet, nutrition and ethics.

Year 3 Modules

Teaching Methods and Resources

You will learn through a variety of teaching techniques: lectures; seminars; case studies; practical workshops; and educational visits.

Students have personal on-campus access to dietary analysis software, which is used frequently in lectures and seminars. We have excellent specialist facilities that include biology and microbiology laboratories and a recently refurbished food workshop.

Emphasis is placed on independent study. Each week you will be given a clear indication of the follow-up study and preparation you are expected to undertake.

In Year 1 workshop programmes in both laboratory and IT skills are designed to give you the transferable skills that will enhance your studies in Years 2 and 3.

Visiting speakers from the nutrition profession and food industry regularly contribute to the programme.

Assessment Methods

A variety of methods is used including essays, reports, case studies, seminar presentations, examinations, group work, and literature reviews.

Entry Requirements

220-260 UCAS Tariff points (eg BCD; BB+AS c), with minimum 160 points from at least two science subjects (chemistry, biology, physics or maths) at A level or equivalent.

An Access course that includes biosciences and numeracy.

Snapshot

Awards

BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition - UCAS code B400.

DipHE - UCAS code B401.

Course Location

Taught at Newton Park.

This course is taught by the School of Science, Society and Management.

Course Length

Three years full-time.

Part-time available.

Annual Course Fees and Bursaries

£3,290 fee in 2010 (plus annual inflationary increase).

£1,000 Scholarships available.

Bursaries of up to £1,200 available.

Key Features

The BSc Human Nutrition degree is a stimulating and provocative programme that covers a wide variety of subjects linked to nutrition. It will challenge some of your own views and opinions and will answer many misconceptions.

This degree has been developed in consultation with potential employers to make sure that graduates are equipped to meet the needs of the varied employment market.

Career Opportunities

There is a growing interest in human nutrition and its effect on health. There is an increasing demand for multi-skilled graduates with knowledge of nutrition and health who will be able to find employment in both the public and private sector.

The career opportunities for students studying BSc Human Nutrition are considerable and below are just some of the key opportunities.

Students are encouraged to tailor their degree to their own career aspirations. Help and advice on specific careers can be acquired from tutors and Bath Spa University's Careers Service.

Private sector careers include: Graduate training schemes with food companies; Development of new food products; Food safety; Compliance with nutritional claims and labelling; Marketing; Public relations; Various roles within food companies, including specialist medical companies.

Public sector careers include: Working for local or national government in health, medical, scientific or food departments; Roles in public health such as Healthy Schools Initiatives; Food and health coordinator for nutrition based initiatives; Developing and contributing to health science in schools, colleges or universities.

Graduates of the BSc Human Nutrition degree may go on to do postgraduate study, such as dietetics, or research, such as MPhil or PhD.

International Students

The School of Science and Environment embraces the aims of Bath Spa University and prides itself as an inclusive School. We strongly believe that a diverse and international student population enhances learning and teaching and enriches the life of both students and staff. We welcome applications from international students and will endeavour to provide our international students with the best experience through working closely with our colleagues in International Activities.