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Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Dietetics
Healthy eating, nutrition and lifestyles are becoming key issues in today’s society. By focusing on the impact of food and nutrition on health, you'll use your knowledge and skills to make a difference to people’s lives.
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
Immersive learning, first-hand
At Plymouth, our innovative learning spaces such as our specialist dietetics labs are designed to get you practising and applying your learning, and will give you confidence to work with real patients.
Hands-on, real-world experience
You'll be out and about gaining valuable experience on placements in a wide range of healthcare settings, working as part of diverse professional teams.
Learn with and from others
We promote learning with and alongside other future health professionals, promoting collaboration and equipping you with valuable transferrable skills.
About
In a world of confusing nutritional information, knowing that I know the evidence behind the trends, fads, and medical management of certain conditions makes me so proud to be a dietitian.
Jonathan
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
This course is for you if...
you have a passion for nutrition and a desire to help people in need
you're a team player, ready to work with other healthcare professionals, patients, and families
you want to join an institution at the forefront of nutrition research
you're committed to joining the ranks of registered dietitians making a difference
Details
Year 1
You will study psychosocial aspects of patient care, biochemistry, physiology, food science, and human nutrition to underpin modules in dietetics and applied nutrition in subsequent years. Sharing teaching with other health professions during part of the year helps you to understand the need for multi-professional working. You will learn how to critically appraise evidence and be introduced to the importance of public health nutrition. You will spend two weeks in your first supervised placement.
Core modules
DIET409
Human Nutrition, Food Studies and the Lifecycle
20 credits
To provide a foundation for the study of human nutrition, a global perspective of the food provisioning system and investigate relationships between food, diet and lifestyle. To investigate the theory and practical aspects of dietary intake assessment and evaluate nutritional requirements throughout stages of the life cycle.
100% Examinations
DIET410
Psychosocial Aspects of Patient Centred Care
20 credits
Students will explore the psychosocial aspects of patient centred care. An introduction to psychosocial aspects of care and impact on health and wellbeing. Students will study the concepts of patient centred care by exploring psychological and social aspects and how these impact on an individual's food choice, lifestyle and health behaviour.
100% Coursework
DIET411
Placement A
This practice based learning module provides students with a range of opportunities to start to develop some of the communication and professional behaviours required to work as a dietitian It also provides experience in undertaking practical exercises relating to the provision of food and dietary analysis.
100% Practicals
DIET412
Nutritional Epidemiology & Public Health Nutrition
20 credits
The module will introduce the principles of evidence based practice and the study of nutritional epidemiology. It will provide an introduction to the relationship between diet and disease, combining nutritional knowledge with skills in evaluation of dietary assessment methodologies to investigate the determinants of health and disease in populations. These epidemiological concepts will then be applied in the context of public health nutrition.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
SOHP401
Preparation for Practice
20 credits
This inter-professional module will introduce students to professional practice and the inherent standards expected of them. The characteristics and identity of allied health professionals, as evidence based practitioners, will underpin learning.
100% Coursework
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
DIET414
Physiology and Genetics
20 credits
This module provides the background in physiology and genetics to enable the learner to develop and incorporate these concepts into modules at level 5. The module has been designed to include the majority of the material that is considered to be essential in providing a sound understanding of the biosciences that underpin dietetics.
100% Examinations
DIET415
Nutritional Biochemistry
This module provides an introduction to the chemistry, biochemistry and metabolic principles underpinning the science of human nutrition.
Year 2
You will work on an integrated and innovative series of problem-based learning exercises to extend the depth and breadth of your knowledge in nutrition, dietetics and clinical sciences. An understanding of immunology and pharmacology will be developed. You will undertake 12 weeks of supervised clinical practice to enable you to develop the confidence and personal skills required to work as a dietitian. We will introduce you to the concepts of professional studies, providing learning opportunities for problem solving with other healthcare professionals.
Core modules
DIET507
Dietetics 1
20 credits
100% Examinations
DIET508
Metabolism and Pharmacology
20 credits
The metabolic element of this module explores the physiological and metabolic background to nutrition through the lifecycle. Basic nutritional metabolism will be studied to provide the basis to look at (in other modules) the role of metabolism in various conditions. The pharmacological element of this module introduces the student dietitian to the basic principles of pharmacology. The mode of action of drugs, the absorption, distribution, and metabolism of drugs, and the interaction between diet and drugs.
100% Examinations
DIET509
Metabolism and Immunology
20 credits
This module explores the physiological and metabolic background to diet related diseases, the role of nutrition in immune function and the influence of nutrients and exercise on the maintenance of optimal health.
100% Examinations
DIET510
Placement B
20 credits
During this 12 week placement, students will begin to apply their theoretical knowledge through blended, virtual and on-site placements and develop the range of skills required to work as a dietitian. Including procedures for the assessment, intervention and monitoring of clients with a range of non-complex conditions in a variety of settings.
100% Practicals
DIET511
Dietetics in Practice 1
20 credits
This module will require students to put into practice the theory studied in Dietetics 1. Students will learn how to adapt meals and use special products to meet an individual's nutritional requirements. They will develop their communication, educational and motivational interviewing abilities. Students will build confidence in core dietetic skills in preparation for their B placement.
60% Clinical exams
40% Coursework
HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2
DIET512
Pathophysiology
This module runs in parallel with the major modules in dietetic practice. The module is designed to provide basic knowledge on basic pathophysiology as well as to introduce the student to the basic concepts of epidemiology and medical diagnosis. The appropriate pathophysiology is encountered at the same time as the conditions are examined from a clinical and dietetic viewpoint.
Final year
You will develop skills to work with more complex patients. An understanding of the principles of sustainable leadership, digital marketing and effective management skills will be embedded. You will work on an in-depth research project in an area of personal interest related to dietetics or nutrition. Your final clinical placement will have a strong patient focus, emphasis being on professional mastery and fitness for practice required for employment and registration as a dietitian with the HCPC.
Core modules
DIET606
Dietetics 2 (CBL)
20 credits
This module will help students review their practical dietetic experiences and build on these through a questioning/problem solving approach. Students will justify approaches and consider the concept of evidenced-based practice in dietary therapy for complex conditions to put together nutrition and dietetic interventions for case scenarios.
100% Examinations
DIET607
Dietetics in Practice 2
20 credits
The module will require students to put into practice the theory studied in Dietetics 2. The major emphasis is on communication and educational skills; presentation and evaluation of different techniques used by dietitians for individuals and groups.
100% Examinations
DIET608
Placement C
20 credits
This 12 week placement builds on the practical skills and knowledge acquired in placement B with an increasing focus on clients with complex needs. Students become competent in translating theory into practice and in demonstrating the range of skills needed to work as a newly qualified dietitian.
100% Coursework
DIET609
Dissertation
20 credits
This module builds on DIET605, the 'Project Design' module. Students will investigate systematically and in-depth a topic of relevance to the field of nutrition and dietetics. They will present and discuss their findings in the context of the contemporary evidence base, and consider the implications of their findings on practice. A report will be prepared, suitable for publication. Through this module students will deepen their understanding of the process of research and link theory to practice in their chosen area.
100% Coursework
DIET611
Leadership Roles for Sustainability
20 credits
This module provides an understanding of sustainability leadership roles for Allied Health Professionals relevant to supporting their skills development for a changing healthcare future. Students will learn how to design, evaluate and communicate the impact of a more sustainable area of practice. They will use sustainability leadership techniques and appraise how these will impact more effective sustainable management of practice in both the public and private sector. There will be a focus on the use of quality improvement frameworks and effective use of digital marketing to promote best practice.
100% Practicals
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
DIET612
Project Design
Students will explore methodology and methods relevant to the development of a research project and by the end of the module will formulate a research proposal. The module will explore defining and refining a research question, selecting and appraising methodology, ethical considerations, selecting and appraising data collection and analysis techniques.
Alternative pathways
Our suite of programmes covers the skills needed for careers as nutritionists, dietitians, and specialists in food science. These roles play a vital part supporting the NHS and healthcare sector, fitness, sport and wellbeing services that help us to lead healthier lives.
As the largest provider of health courses in the South West, we pride ourselves on enable access to training whatever stage in your life you decide to pursue a career in health professions.
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![Accredited by the British Dietetic Association]( "Accredited by the British Dietetic Association")
Accredited by the British Dietetic Association
On successful completion of this course you are eligible to apply for registration with the British Dietetic Association. -
![Health and Care Professions Council]( "Health and Care Professions Council Accreditation")
Approved by the Health & Care Professions Council
On successful completion of this course you are eligible to apply for registration with the Health & Care Professions Council.
Accredited by the British Dietetic Association
Approved by the Health & Care Professions Council
Please note: in order to successfully complete your course and be eligible to apply for a professional registration you must pass all practice based placement competencies along with your theoretical study. This is a requirement of the HCPC. You will only be able to take personal holidays during the specified leave periods for your course. This includes induction week where it is vital you attend all sessions.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Hands-on learning
We are committed to shaping you into the best health professional you can be. We understand that future dietitians must understand the 'why', 'when', and 'how' behind their actions to ensure patient safety and well-being. This requires blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which can be developed during placement practice and simulated practice.
Our nutrition facilities include a kitchen laboratory, offering a hands-on learning environment where you can gain practical experience in cooking and preparing food and an exercise laboratory where you can analyse the physiological responses and adaptions to exercise and diet.
You may also have the option to provide advice on areas such as food and mood to University staff and the local community in our online nutrition clinic.
Having shadowed dietitians on my first placement, being trusted with the responsibility of providing dietetic advice to patients was exhilarating. I was able to build upon what I had learned at university by translating it into practical advice to help patients. I knew then that this was definitely the career path for me.
Rosanna
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
Work alongside other healthcare students
Teamwork is essential for success in health and social care and many other careers. Interprofessional learning is all about working and learning together with people from different areas of healthcare. It helps you build valuable skills for the future.
The
Plymouth Integrative Health and Social Care Education Centre
supports interprofessional learning, giving students chances to work with others across different healthcare fields including radiography, dietetics, dental surgery, psychology, and child nursing. By learning together, students become confident and ready to step into their careers from day one.
It is great to know how to ensure all of our professions can work effectively together. This benefits the service user and staff.
Healthcare systems always require improvement, it’s easier to know how to improve your area if you know how other areas work too.
Real-world experience
Placement learning is an integral part of the experience of training to become a dietitian.
Placements are of 4, 12 and 12-weeks duration, and occur in Years 1, 2 and 3 respectively. These take place in a variety of settings, with a blend of simulation experiences based at the University, and placements accessed across the South West (Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, Avon, and Wiltshire).
Placement opportunities provide practical experience allowing you to apply theory learnt at university into a variety of different specialist, clinic areas and settings.
My favourite memory of my 3rd-year placement was delivering my first full outpatient clinic to oncology patients. I felt proud of myself as I was able to complete the full consultations, from the nutritional assessment to delivering advice and answering the patient's questions. At the end of the placement, I felt confident in my ability to practise as a band 5 dietitian.
Isabella
BSc (Hons) Dietetics Graduate
BSc (Hons) Dietetics Graduate
Learn from experienced healthcare professionals
We pride ourselves on our cutting-edge, research informed curriculum which ensures that you are equipped with the latest evidence, as well as the research skills to support patients’ recovery.
Our staff are registered dietitians engaged in active research, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and clinical experience into the classroom, which you will apply in clinical practice.
Professor Mary Hickson
Professor in Dietetics
Dr Avril Collinson
Associate Professor in Dietetics
Dr Tracey Parkin
Associate Professor
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
The Dietetics degree allowed me to register and work as a dietitian, which would not have been possible without it. It taught me the skills to confidently enter my first role as a dietitian and equipped me to continuously learn and develop. My degree introduced me to evidence-based practice and the importance of research, encouraging my curious mind. It opened up multiple career pathways and postgraduate qualification options.
Lynsey
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
Studying dietetics at the University will open a wide range of career choices, including opportunities in public sector healthcare, the commercial sector and self employment.
The NHS is the major employer of dietitians, with dietitians working in hospital settings, community and GP practices. There are opportunities to specialise in a variety of areas such as ITU, diabetes, renal, paediatrics, oncology, gastroenterology, mental health, learning disabilities, neurological disorders etc. There are also opportunities to practice in private healthcare, food industry, businesses, workplace, catering, public health, education sport and the media.
In the commercial sector, food and drink manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies employ dietitians in a variety of roles including product development, quality control, advising on labelling and regulatory affairs. You could be working for a company specialising in NHS prescription only products used in the management or treatment of a range of clinical conditions.
I look back on my time at Plymouth as a time of enjoyment and personal development. Although the course was very challenging, it enabled me to pursue a career I feel passionate about and I will always be grateful for the support and encouragement I received during my degree course.
Claire
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
BSc (Hons) Dietetics graduate
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
£18,650 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
Placements
All students within the School of Health Professions will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases, students will stay away from home for the duration of that placement. Some students on these courses are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. However, this should be investigated by the student to make sure this applies to their chosen course of study.
All students within the School of Health Professions will spend time in placements away from university. The South West is a largely rural region, which often requires students to travel longer and further distances than may be expected when universities are in largely urban areas. In many cases, students will stay away from home for the duration of that placement. Some students on these courses are eligible for reimbursement of additional travel and accommodation costs over normal daily travel costs. This support is part of the Learning Support Fund administered through the NHS Business Services Authority. However, this should be investigated by the student to make sure this applies to their chosen course of study.
It is difficult to give a precise estimate of placement costs for each individual programme, due to the geographical spread of placements, and duration. However it is recommended you attend an open day to find out more about what placement costs can be anticipated or discuss placement with a member of our admissions teams.
Despite these costs, placements offer an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and are recognised as an essential part of students' development towards becoming a registered practitioner.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
You may be eligible for a £5000 NHS training grant
The NHS Learning Support Fund provides additional funding for eligible healthcare students. It is supplementary financial support to the mainstream student loans system and is intended to support students whilst they train and gain professional registration. The training grant is for at least £5,000.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Secure your place this September
Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
112 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
All applicants must have at least 5 GCSE (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above and must include English, Maths and a Science. Preference is given to applicants who have obtained these grades on application. Please note the institution may consider equivalent numeracy and literacy qualifications
A levels
112 points to include BB at A level from one of the following two subjects include biology plus a second science, preferably chemistry but will accept Maths/Physics/Psychology/Sociology/Geography/Geology/Environmental Science and Food Technology. Please contact the admissions team if you are not studying a second relevant subject.
(Extended project will be counted if nutrition related subject – this will be considered at confirmation)
(Extended project will be counted if nutrition related subject – this will be considered at confirmation)
BTEC
BTEC National Diploma/Extended Diploma: DMM-DDM – Science related. Must contain strong Biology and second science module (preferably Chemistry, but may also consider Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Geology and Environmental science). An A level alongside is preferable.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass a named Access to HE Diploma (e.g. science, combined science, medicine) with at least 45 credits at level 3 of which 30 must be at distinction level with 15 credits in biology and 15 credits in a second science (preferably chemistry, but others might be considered including maths, physics, psychology, sociology, geography, environmental science or geology). The remaining 15 level 3 credits must be at merit.
T level
Accepted – preference pathways would be Health and Science. Typical offer will be Merit overall.
International Baccalaureate
30-28 points must include Higher Level 5 in both Biology and 5 in a second Science: preferably Chemistry but will also consider, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Geology and Environmental science. Please contact the admissions team if you are not studying a second relevant subject.
English and Maths accepted within Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5
If overseas and not studying English within IB – MUST have IELTS
English and Maths accepted within Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5
If overseas and not studying English within IB – MUST have IELTS
Extended entry requirements
- In addition to the above, evidence of academic study within the last five years is required. Ideally this should be one of the qualifications listed here, but the admissions team will assess on a case-by-case basis.
- Meeting the academic minimum is the first stage of an application being considered. Applicants must also submit a strong personal statement in order to be considered further.
- You must pass
disclosure and barring service and occupational health checks satisfactorily in order to be able to start this course. - If English is not your first language and you do not have GCSE English grade C/4 or above you will have to achieve an IELTS (or equivalent qualification) at the grade of at least 7.0 (at least 6.5 in all elements sections). See our
English language requirements . - Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of the programme.
Further information
Prospective students are expected to attend an interview, and complete satisfactory screening in terms of your health, welfare and disclosure and barring processes, before the start of your course.
Deferred entry is not possible for this course, but we can waive your interview in the next cycle if you have already been interviewed successfully this cycle.
Meeting the academic minimum does not guarantee you a place, you need to make sure that you are strong across all sections of your application form, get hits and tips on enhancing your application.
Interview days
Once your application has been received, we will consider your application to help us reach a decision. If successful at the initial screening stage, you will be invited to an interview. The majority of health courses interview applicants, as this is a requirement of many health regulatory bodies. This applies to all Universities and is vital to the progression of applications.
Interviews enable:
- you to give the best account of your skills, experience and character.
- us to decide whether you will thrive in the University of Plymouth’s culture.
- us to explain more about the University, programme and how we work with our students.
Screening
All offers are subject to
satisfactory screening
in terms of your health, welfare and disclosure and barring processes, before the start of your course.
NHS constitution
University pre-registration programmes for health professionals are required to select their applicants using a ‘values based’ approach. As part of this process, your UCAS personal statement should include evidence of your personal commitment to NHS values laid out in the NHS constitution.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
B410
B410
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
112 UCAS points
112 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
B410
B410
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at
plymouth.ac.uk/upic
or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.