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The BSc (Hons) Dietetics at the University of Plymouth is a hands-on, career-focused degree that equips you to become a registered dietitian. You’ll combine classroom learning with real-world experience, gaining the skills to make a real difference in people’s health through evidence-based nutrition and dietetics.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in human nutrition, food science, and the social side of patient care. Modules like Human Nutrition, Food Studies and the Lifecycle and Psychosocial Aspects of Patient Centred Care will introduce you to the science and practice of dietetics, while a two-week supervised placement gives you your first taste of professional experience.
Year 2:
The second year dives deeper into clinical dietetics, public health, and research skills. Through a 12-week placement, you’ll work in healthcare settings and apply your learning in real-life situations. You’ll explore advanced nutritional assessment and therapeutic dietetics, preparing you to handle more complex patient care scenarios.
Year 3:
Your final year is all about preparing for professional practice. You’ll complete another 12-week placement, take modules focused on leadership and managing dietetic services, and complete a research project that lets you contribute to the field. This year ties together all your learning and gives you confidence to enter the profession.
Focus Areas:
Clinical Dietetics, Public Health Nutrition, Therapeutic Dietetics, Research Methodologies, Professional Practice
Learning Outcomes:
Delivering evidence-based care, patient-centered practice, nutritional assessment, therapeutic diet planning, leadership in dietetics
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and approved by the British Dietetic Association (BDA), which means you’ll be eligible to register as a dietitian in the UK after graduation.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Plymouth ranks 4th in the UK for food science subjects (Complete University Guide 2026) and is recognized for outstanding student learning opportunities, topping the South West region in the National Student Survey.
At the University of Plymouth, studying BSc (Hons) Dietetics isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world practice. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to apply what you learn in modern labs, simulated clinical settings, and community projects, so that by the time you graduate, you feel confident in your skills. The program combines practical placements, interactive tools, and collaborative projects to make learning dynamic and career-focused:
Kitchen Laboratory: Practice preparing meals and designing diets for different needs, from therapeutic plans to sports nutrition.
InterCity Place: Simulated hospital wards, consulting rooms, and community spaces let you rehearse real-life patient interactions.
Online Nutrition Clinic: Provide dietary advice under supervision to staff and the local community, gaining experience with digital consultations.
Analytical Laboratory: Analyze and test food products, learning lab techniques crucial for dietetics research and quality assurance.
Exercise Laboratory: Explore the effects of diet and exercise on the body, conducting practical experiments in physiology.
Phlebotomy Laboratory: Develop skills in collecting and analyzing biological samples like blood and saliva.
Level 2 Containment Laboratory: Engage in microbiology research in a fully equipped environment.
Placement Opportunities: Work in hospitals, GP surgeries, community health centers, and catering/industry settings across the South West, building confidence in diverse professional environments.
Interprofessional Learning: Collaborate with students from other healthcare programs, sharpening teamwork and communication skills vital for your future career.
These experiences give you a mix of practical skills, professional insight, and confidence that will set you apart as a dietitian-ready graduate.
Graduating from the BSc (Hons) Dietetics program at the University of Plymouth prepares you for a rewarding career in nutrition and healthcare. With a strong mix of practical placements, professional accreditation, and hands-on experience, you could find yourself working in roles such as:
Registered Dietitian: Supporting patients in hospitals, clinics, or community health settings to manage their nutritional needs.
Public Health Nutritionist: Designing and delivering programs to improve the health of communities.
Clinical Researcher: Conducting studies to expand knowledge in dietetics and nutrition science.
Food Industry Specialist: Advising companies on product development, quality control, and compliance in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.
The University of Plymouth supports your career every step of the way:
Placements: Gain real-world experience through structured placements in hospitals, GP surgeries, community health centers, and industry settings across the South West.
Career Services: Access tailored guidance, job listings, and networking events to help you launch your career in health and nutrition.
Industry Partnerships: Benefit from collaborations with local healthcare providers, food manufacturers, and research institutions that enhance your employability.
Accreditation: The degree is fully accredited by the British Dietetic Association and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council, so you’re eligible for professional registration.
Graduate Outcomes: Plymouth dietetics graduates enjoy excellent employment prospects, with nearly all securing work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BSc, you can continue your studies and specialize further:
MSc Human Nutrition: Focus on areas like public health nutrition or disease prevention.
MSc Advanced Professional Practice in Dietetics: Develop advanced clinical skills and leadership expertise.
PhD in Nutrition or Dietetics: Engage in high-level research and contribute to the field’s knowledge base.
These pathways let you deepen your expertise, expand career options, and keep advancing in the dynamic field of dietetics.
A levels : AAB or ABB in three A levels which must include Biology plus a second science, preferably Chemistry but will accept Maths /Physics /Psychology /Sociology/ Geography/Geology/Environmental Science/Food TechnologyGCSE : Applicants must have at least 5 GCSE (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above and must include English, Maths and a ScienceIB : 32 points overall to include Higher Level 5 in Biology and Higher Level 5 in second Science, preferably Chemistry (will consider Maths, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Geology, Environmental science)Indian boards : 60% and above in Indian high school boards which must include Biology plus a second science, preferably Chemistry but will accept Maths /Physics /Psychology /Sociology/ GeographyAmerican curriculum : GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 in a US High School Graduation Diploma with a minimum of one of the following: AP at grade 3, 4 or 5 (usually two or three subjects relevant to the course) IELTS : 7.0 overall (6.5 min in each element)TOEFL : Overall 94–100 with minimum 22–24 in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and WritingCommunity DietitianAcute DietitianResearch DietitianHealth Communication ConsultantHealth Promotion Specialist
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