The MDiet (Hons) Dietetics at the University of Plymouth is an integrated master’s program that combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into one seamless course. It’s designed for students passionate about nutrition and healthcare, giving you the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to become a registered dietitian, while also developing leadership and research capabilities.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1 – Foundations of Dietetics:
Your first year introduces the core science and human aspects of dietetics. Modules like Human Nutrition, Food Studies and the Lifecycle and Psychosocial Aspects of Patient Centred Care help you understand nutrition, food science, and patient care. A two-week supervised placement also gives you your first taste of practical experience in a healthcare setting.
Year 2 – Developing Dietetic Practice:
In year two, you’ll build on your foundation with modules such as Clinical Nutrition and Public Health Nutrition. Longer placements allow you to apply what you’ve learned in real clinical environments, emphasizing evidence-based practice and teamwork with other healthcare professionals.
Year 3 – Advanced Dietetic Practice:
Year three focuses on advanced clinical skills and specialization, including areas like pediatric nutrition or sports dietetics. Advanced Clinical Dietetics and Research Methods in Dietetics prepare you for independent practice, while a major research project allows you to contribute original findings to the field.
Year 4 – Master’s Level Integration:
The final year brings master’s-level study, focusing on leadership, management, and advanced research. Modules such as Leadership in Dietetic Practice and the Advanced Research Project equip you for clinical leadership roles and policy development. A substantial dissertation demonstrates your ability to conduct independent, high-level research.
Focus Areas:
Clinical Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Food Science, Research Methodology, Professional Practice
Learning Outcomes:
Assess nutritional needs, design and implement dietary plans, conduct research, and work collaboratively in healthcare teams to improve patient outcomes.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
Accredited by the British Dietetic Association and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council, graduates are eligible to register as professional dietitians in the UK.
Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Plymouth is ranked 4th in the UK for food science subjects (Complete University Guide 2026) and top in the South West for student learning opportunities, according to the National Student Survey 2025.
At the University of Plymouth, the MDiet (Hons) Dietetics program is designed to give you hands-on experience from day one. You’ll combine classroom learning with practical placements and state-of-the-art facilities, so that by the time you graduate, you’ll have the confidence and skills to work effectively as a dietitian. From cooking labs to simulated clinical environments, you’ll get to practice what you learn in real-world settings, often collaborating with peers and supervised professionals:
Kitchen Laboratory: Learn to prepare and implement diets for different needs, including therapeutic diets, sports nutrition, and general healthy eating.
InterCity Place: Simulated wards, consulting rooms, and community spaces allow you to practice clinical skills and patient interactions before your placements.
Online Nutrition Clinic: Gain experience giving dietary advice under supervision to staff and the community, using digital platforms to reach a wider audience.
Research Laboratories: Access specialized labs such as the Analytical Lab, Exercise Lab, Phlebotomy Lab, and Level 2 Containment Lab to carry out research, analyze food, and study physiological responses to nutrition.
Placements: Work in hospitals, GP surgeries, community centers, and industry settings across the South West, applying your learning in real healthcare environments.
These experiences help you develop practical skills, professional confidence, and a deep understanding of dietetics, preparing you for a successful career in the field.
Graduating from the MDiet (Hons) Dietetics program at the University of Plymouth prepares you for a fulfilling career in nutrition and healthcare. With a combination of practical placements, advanced clinical training, and research experience, you’ll be ready to step confidently into roles such as:
Clinical Dietitian: Working in hospitals, clinics, or community health settings to assess and manage patients’ nutritional needs.
Public Health Nutritionist: Designing and implementing programs to improve community health outcomes.
Food Industry Consultant: Advising companies on product development, quality control, and nutritional compliance.
Researcher in Nutrition and Dietetics: Conducting studies to expand knowledge and improve practices in the field.
The University of Plymouth supports your career journey with tailored services and opportunities:
Employment Support: Access to CV workshops, interview coaching, and job search guidance through the Careers and Employability Service.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with local healthcare providers, food manufacturers, and public health organizations give you real-world exposure and networking opportunities.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the British Dietetic Association and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council, ensuring your qualification is recognized for professional practice.
Graduate Outcomes: Plymouth dietetics graduates enjoy excellent career prospects, with strong employment rates and pathways to leadership roles.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MDiet, you can continue your studies and specialize further:
MSc Advanced Professional Practice in Dietetics: Develop advanced clinical and leadership skills.
MSc Human Nutrition: Focus on public health nutrition or disease prevention.
PhD in Nutrition or Dietetics: Engage in research and contribute to the field’s knowledge base.
These options allow you to deepen your expertise, open new career pathways, and advance in the dynamic field of dietetics.



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