4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
If you’re passionate about food, health, and helping people live better lives, this course could be the perfect fit. The BSc (Hons) Dietetics at Herts combines cutting-edge nutrition science with hands-on clinical training, preparing you to qualify as a registered dietitian with the HCPC and the British Dietetic Association.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Building the Basics
In your first year, you’ll explore the foundations of dietetics through subjects like Nutrition Science and Introduction to Dietetic Practice. Alongside this, you’ll study human biology and physiology to understand how the body works and responds to food. You’ll also begin to develop essential professional and communication skills that set you up for placements and future practice.
Year 2: Applying Your Knowledge
In second year, the focus shifts towards applying what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios. Modules like Clinical Nutrition and Public Health Nutrition introduce you to how dietitians work in hospitals and communities. Through case studies, dietary assessments, and simulated patient interactions, you’ll strengthen your problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Year 3: Placement Year
Your third year is where theory meets practice. You’ll spend the year on a full-time placement, working under the guidance of experienced dietitians in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. This immersive experience lets you put your knowledge into action, build confidence, and see first-hand the difference dietitians make in people’s lives.
Year 4: Advanced Practice and Research
In your final year, you’ll take your skills to the next level with advanced modules such as Research Methods in Dietetics and Leadership and Management in Practice. You’ll also complete a research project that contributes to the growing evidence base in nutrition and dietetics. By the end, you’ll be well-prepared to step confidently into a professional role.
Focus areas: Clinical Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Dietetic Research, Professional Practice
Learning outcomes: Evidence-based diet planning, Clinical reasoning, Advanced nutrition assessment, Strong communication skills
Professional alignment: Accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Dietetic Association (BDA)
Reputation: Herts is known for excellent graduate employability and strong NHS partnerships
At the University of Hertfordshire, dietetics students don’t just learn in the classroom — they gain hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world practice. From the very first year, you’ll take part in clinical placements in NHS hospitals and community settings, working alongside registered dietitians and seeing firsthand how nutrition impacts patient care. You’ll also have access to purpose-built dietetics laboratories, where you can practice preparing and analyzing meals, simulate dietary planning, and apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. This combination of placements, labs, and co-curricular opportunities ensures you develop both the skills and confidence needed to succeed as a professional dietitian.
Here’s what experiential learning looks like in practice:
Clinical Placements – Supervised experience in NHS hospitals and community settings to develop professional skills and confidence.
Dietetics Laboratories – Specialized labs for preparing, analyzing, and evaluating food and nutrition in realistic scenarios.
Study Abroad Opportunities – Gain international exposure to dietetic practices and broaden your professional perspective.
Co-Curricular Activities – Volunteering and additional projects to enhance skills, teamwork, and employability.
These experiences are designed to ensure you graduate not just with knowledge, but with the practical expertise employers are looking for.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Dietetics program at the University of Hertfordshire leave ready to make a real difference in the field of nutrition and healthcare. With a strong mix of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, you’ll be prepared for careers such as:
Registered Dietitian – supporting patients with nutrition advice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
Public Health Nutritionist – developing programs to improve health and wellbeing in communities.
Clinical Dietitian – specializing in dietary management for patients with specific medical conditions.
Nutrition Consultant – advising organizations on nutrition strategies and policies.
To help you succeed in your chosen path, the university provides:
Student Futures Service – offering career guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and networking with industry professionals.
Strong industry partnerships – links with NHS trusts and community health organizations provide valuable placement opportunities.
Accreditation – the program is fully accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Dietetic Association (BDA), ensuring you meet professional standards to practice as a dietitian in the UK.
Graduate outcomes – around 98% of health, nursing, and social care graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduating.
Further Academic Progression:
After your degree, there are several options to continue your studies and specialize:
MSc in Clinical Nutrition – perfect for working in specialized healthcare settings.
MSc in Public Health Nutrition – focus on community health and nutrition policy.
Postgraduate Research – contribute to cutting-edge studies in dietetics and nutrition science.
These pathways allow you to build expertise, advance your career, and make a bigger impact in the nutrition and healthcare sectors.
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