Dietetics & Nutrition BSc

With growing awareness of the link between diet and health, careers in dietetics and nutrition are more relevant than ever.

Whether you're passionate about preventing disease, working with patients to manage health conditions, or promoting public health through better eating habits, studying this field offers both scientific depth and societal impact.

This guide outlines how to pursue a career in dietetics or nutrition in the UK.

Studying Dietetics and Nutrition in the UK

Dietitians are regulated healthcare professionals, while nutritionists may work in public health, research, industry, or the private sector, depending on their qualifications and registration status.

Key Distinction:

Dietitians work directly with patients and are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They are qualified to diagnose and treat dietary-related health issues.

Nutritionists focus on population health, education, or food science and are not legally required to register, but many choose to register with the Association for Nutrition (AfN).

Dietetics Degree Structure:

A typical degree is a BSc (Hons) in Dietetics or Dietetics and Nutrition, lasting three to four years.

The course includes anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, clinical dietetics, and public health nutrition.

Practical training through clinical placements is a mandatory component, often in NHS hospitals and community settings.

Courses must be approved by the HCPC and the British Dietetic Association (BDA).

Nutrition Degree Structure:

BSc programmes in Nutrition, Human Nutrition, or Public Health Nutrition typically last three years.

These degrees may lead to roles in health promotion, food manufacturing, research, or further study.

Who the Course Suits

A degree in dietetics and nutrition suits students who are interested in science, health and the impact of diet on wellbeing. It is well matched to individuals who are organised, analytical and capable of interpreting scientific evidence. At the same time, strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as the role often involves working closely with patients, families or community groups.

This degree is ideal for those who want a mix of science, healthcare and practical problem-solving, and who enjoy motivating and supporting others to make positive lifestyle changes.

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels or equivalent (usually including Biology and/or Chemistry). Relevant BTECs and access courses may also be accepted.

• Applicants generally need at least five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English, maths and science. Strong results in science subjects are especially important for dietetics due to the biological and chemical knowledge required.

• A successful interview, health screening, and DBS check for dietetics courses.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements are science-based, and most universities ask for:

• A levels: Biology and Chemistry are essential or strongly preferred. A third subject might be Mathematics, Physics, Psychology or another science.

• BTECs: Applied Science may be accepted, particularly if combined with A-level Chemistry or Biology.

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Biology and Chemistry are usually required.

What Makes a Strong Application

Dietetics and Nutrition is a competitive subject, so applicants need to demonstrate both academic ability and motivation. Strong applications include:

• High grades in relevant science subjects.

• Relevant experience such as volunteering in hospitals, care homes, community health projects or food services.

• A strong personal statement that shows a genuine interest in food, health and patient care.

• Interview performance, as many universities invite applicants to discuss their motivations and understanding of the profession.

Funding:

Dietetics students in England are eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which includes a £5,000 non-repayable grant per year.

Tuition and maintenance loans are available through Student Finance.

After Graduation:

Dietetics graduates can apply for HCPC registration and work as NHS dietitians or in private practice, research, or industry.

Nutrition graduates may pursue roles in education, media, public health campaigns, food policy, or postgraduate training.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

• Studying Dietetics and Nutrition provides both specialist and transferable skills, such as:

• Scientific knowledge: Understanding how food and nutrients affect the body.

• Communication skills: Explaining complex dietary information clearly to patients and the public.

• Problem-solving: Designing nutrition plans tailored to individual needs.

• Teamwork: Collaborating with healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses and physiotherapists.

• Research and analysis: Evaluating evidence to support dietary advice.

• Empathy and counselling skills: Supporting patients with lifestyle changes.

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Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Dietetics and Nutrition Students

Exploring books on diet and health can strengthen your application and broaden your knowledge. Four useful starting points are:

“Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual” by Michael Pollan

A simple, thought-provoking guide to making healthier food choices.

“Nutrition: A Very Short Introduction” by David Bender

A concise overview of nutrition science, perfect for beginners.

“The Dietitian’s Guide to Professional Practice” by Susan Lowis

Offers insight into the realities of being a practising dietitian.

“Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us” by Michael Moss

Explores the role of the food industry in shaping diets and health.