Top UK Universities to Study a Nutrition Degree

In today's health-conscious world, the demand for expertise in nutrition is rapidly growing, creating a surge in opportunities for careers and jobs in nutrition. As individuals and communities strive for healthier lifestyles, the role of nutrition professionals becomes pivotal in guiding dietary choices and promoting overall well-being. To embark on a successful journey in this field, it's crucial to equip oneself with the right knowledge and skills, which can be achieved via a nutrition degree.

From exploring the intricate relationships between diet and health to mastering the scientific underpinnings of nutrition, the best nutrition courses in the UK offer a gateway to a fulfilling career, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on individuals and societies alike.

Learn more below and begin your application by contacting SI-UK for a free consultation on your future.

Top 10 Universities to Study Nutrition in the UK

From exploring the intricate relationships between diet and health to mastering the scientific underpinnings of nutrition, the best nutrition courses in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2024) offer a gateway to a fulfilling career.

1. Ulster University

The BSc (Hons) Food and Nutrition programme at Ulster University is designed to equip students with a diverse skill set encompassing nutritional sciences, business, and consumer behaviour. Students will benefit from world-class teaching informed by the latest research led by research-active academic staff from the renowned Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), located within the School of Biomedical Sciences. Students can engage in regional and international research projects at the forefront of food, nutrition, and health, often collaborating with industry partners.

The commitment to excellence is reflected in the top ranking for Nutrition and Food Science degrees in the Guardian University Guide 2024 and an impressive 92% student satisfaction rating in the National Student Survey.

• Suggested course: Food and Nutrition with placement year - BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A-Levels: CCC, UCAS tariff points, IB scores: 24 points and English language requirements through test IELTS with an overall score of 6.0
• International fees: £16,320 per year

2. London Metropolitan University

London Metropolitan University's intensive Human Nutrition BSc suits science graduates aspiring to become dietitians. The course, second in the UK for nutrition and food science, emphasises practical skills, clinical practice, and scientific understanding. Taught by expert guest lecturers, it covers all aspects of the domain. You'll engage in hands-on, highly developed laboratory sessions at the £30 million Science Centre, which is equipped with specialised nutritional physiology and food technology labs.

Upon completion, you'll be well-prepared to embark on a fulfilling career as a public health nutritionist in various sectors, including government, charity, academia, and research. Health science graduates can enter diverse healthcare professions, from acute and community dietitians to health advisors and sports coaches, employed by esteemed institutions such as King's College Hospital, Bupa, and various NHS organisations.

• Suggested course: Human Nutrition - BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: Students must have a minimum of 112 points from A levels, including a C in Biology or Human Biology or a minimum of 112 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification and English language proficiency through test IELTS.
• International fees: £17,600 per year

3. Glasgow Caledonian University

GCU's BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition and Dietetics integrates nutrition science for health promotion and disease prevention. The course, accredited by the British Dietetic Association and Health and Care Professions Council, emphasises practical skills for effective dietetics practice. GCU offers a comprehensive and prestigious education and is known for Scotland's longest-running dietetics degree course. With a strong focus on problem-based learning, it covers physiology, nutrition, microbiology, and professional skills. Practice education and placements ensure real-world readiness, while an Honours Project concludes the curriculum.

You will benefit from problem-based learning, practice education, and placements that prepare you for real-world scenarios. Graduates can abound in diverse sectors, including industry, sports nutrition, media, education, government and non-government organisations, and private practice. 

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition and Dietetics
• Entry requirements: A level - BCC to include Chemistry plus GCSE English and Maths at B/6, UCAS tariff points, International Baccalaureate - 28 points, and English language requirements through test IELTS score of 7.0
• International fees: £14,500

4. University of Leeds

The University of Leeds offers an in-depth Nutrition BSc aligned with the Association for Nutrition's standards. Delving into scientific, social, and ethical aspects, it covers nutrition policy, health, and well-being, emphasising diet's role in human health. Renowned researchers teach the program. You'll explore the impact of food processing, nutritional epidemiology, and personalised nutrition. Learners will also be able to enhance CV with industrial work placements at esteemed companies like Marks and Spencer, Sainsbury’s, and Nestlé. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences in advanced teaching laboratories and computer clusters, preparing them for a successful career in the field. At Leeds, you'll receive unparalleled support and resources to thrive academically and personally, setting you on the path to becoming a leader in nutrition.

• Suggested course: Nutrition BSc
• Entry requirements: A Levels - AAB including two science subjects, at least one of Chemistry, Physics, Biology or Mathematics, IB scores: 16 at higher level, and English language requirements through test IELTS with a 6.5 band score overall
• International fees: £30,750 per year

5. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham's specialised nutrition programme, designed for BSc graduates in biological sciences, offers accreditation by the Association for Nutrition (AfN). Graduates become Registered Associate Nutritionists (ANutr) on the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists (UKVRN). The curriculum delves into human nutrition, covering macro and micronutrients, metabolism, and the role of public health. At Nottingham, the Bachelor of Nutrition course equips students to tackle pressing global challenges in food sustainability and public health.

The university is ranked 5th in the UK for Nutrition and Food Science, with specialist facilities, industry placements, and vibrant student societies. Nottingham provides a dynamic and supportive environment for academic and professional growth. Plus, enhance your skills with an optional Year in Computer Science, preparing you for interdisciplinary problem-solving in today's digital age.

• Suggested course: Nutrition BSc
• Entry requirements: IB scores: 32, including Higher Level grade 5, in at least one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Maths, IELTS with a score of 6.0 overall, A-Levels: ABB
• International fees: £28,600 per year

6. University of Surrey

The University of Surrey's Nutrition BSc explores evidence-based connections between diet, health, and disease, cultivating advanced knowledge and research skills for a career in nutritional sciences. As a student, you'll have access to exceptional facilities, including the £12.5 million Innovation for Health Learning Laboratory. The Professional Training placements provide opportunities to gain industry experience with various employers, including government agencies, NHS trusts, and nutrition companies. Students will learn from renowned lecturers who were awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize 2017 for Further and Higher Education in recognition of their research excellence in food and nutrition.

• Suggested course: Nutrition BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A Levels: BBB overall and English language requirements through test IELTS with 6.5 overall
• International fees: £26,000 per year

7. University of Reading

Students should consider the Bachelor of Nutrition course at the University of Reading, which offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the critical science of nutrition. In today's increasingly health-conscious society, the demand for skilled nutritionists is rising, making this course invaluable for those passionate about promoting healthy eating habits and preventing diseases. One of the highlights of the BSc Nutrition course at Reading is its professional accreditation from the Association for Nutrition and the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST). The learning environment at the University of Reading is highly supportive, with students benefiting from instruction by world-leading experts.  

• Suggested course: BSc Nutrition
• Entry requirements: A Level - ABB, IB scores: 32 points and English language requirements through test IELTS with 6.5 overall
• International fees: £27,650

8. Queen’s University Belfast

Queen's University Belfast offers a comprehensive nutrition degree on food production and consumption. The course's curriculum allows students to explore enhancing food quality and safety, minimising health risks, and supporting human well-being across all life stages. The highly developed School of Biological Sciences building at Chlorine Gardens provides an immersive and technologically advanced learning environment tailored to enrich the educational journey. The degree's flexible design allows students to seamlessly transfer to the MSci Food Quality, Safety & Nutrition degree until the end of Stage 2, contingent upon meeting requirements. Students will also get exciting opportunities in prestigious organisations like the Food Standards Agency (NI), Yakult, and Safe Food, which offer prizes for outstanding academic achievements and contributions to food science and nutrition. 

• Suggested course: BSc Food Science and Nutrition
• Entry requirements: A-level BBB including Biology and Chemistry + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• International fees: £25,300

9. Nottingham Trent University

For students who want to explore an enriching journey in the sports science, health, and nutrition domain, Nottingham Trent University (NTU) ensures a vibrant and student-centred learning experience. As part of the esteemed Sport and Wellbeing Academy, students have the unique opportunity to learn and work alongside seasoned Senior Exercise Practitioners to design and implement exercise programs that positively impact the local community's health and well-being. NTU's dedication to teaching quality is recognised, ranking within the top 20 in the UK for sports science. The curriculum emphasises practical skills, including communication and psychology, vital for promoting behaviour change in health contexts. Moreover, the program holds industry endorsement from the British Dietetic Association’s Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENR), ensuring alignment with professional standards. 

• Suggested course: Sport Science, Health and Nutrition BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A-level, 112 UCAS Tariff points, and English language requirements through tests like IELTS
• International fees: £17,150 

10. King's College London

King’s College London started its Department of Nutritional Science in 1945 as the first department in Europe to provide advanced research skills and cover all the essential topics from basic to advanced. Students will be immersed in advanced research, delving into crucial issues ranging from fundamental principles to advanced concepts tailored to their learning needs. Students can also discover the renowned research initiatives focusing on groundbreaking areas such as FODMAPs and gut health, iron deficiency and anaemia, food insecurity and malnutrition. The curriculum is designed to equip with advanced research skills while providing a comprehensive understanding of nutritional science.

• Suggested course: Nutritional Sciences BSc
• Entry requirements: A Levels - ABB, IB score: 34, and English language requirements
• International fees: £33,450 per year

Study a Nutrition Degree in the UK

If you want to explore the numerous nutrition courses available at UK universities, contact SI-UK today for a free consultation.

FAQ

What are the admission requirements for a nutrition course?

Generally, you would need a high school diploma or equivalent for an undergraduate course. For postgraduate courses, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, preferably in a related field. Some courses might also require specific A-level subjects or their equivalents. Additionally, English language proficiency (usually demonstrated through Pearson PTE or IELTS scores) is required for international students.

What is the highest-paid nutrition job?

Registered dietitians, especially those working in clinical or specialised settings, such as sports nutrition or private practice, often have the potential for higher salaries. Nutrition consultants, researchers in academia or industry, and public health nutritionists can also command competitive salaries.

Is it worth studying nutrition courses?

Studying nutrition courses can be worth it, especially if you have a genuine interest in the field and a passion for promoting health and well-being through diet. Nutritionists play a critical role in addressing global health challenges. Formal education in nutrition equips you with knowledge, skills, and credentials that can open doors to various career opportunities in healthcare, research, public health, and the food industry.

How many years are on a nutrition course?

An undergraduate degree in nutrition typically takes three to four years to complete. Postgraduate courses, such as a Master's degree (MSc) in nutrition, usually last one to two years. PhD programmes for those interested in advanced research and academia can take three to five years or more.

What career opportunities are after finishing a nutrition course?

Graduates can work as clinical dietitians, community nutritionists, food quality and safety specialists, research scientists, nutrition consultants, health educators, and more. They can be employed in hospitals, clinics, schools, government agencies, non-profit organisations, research institutions, food companies, and wellness centres. The field also offers specialisation opportunities in sports nutrition, pediatric nutrition, public health, and nutritional research.