TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Dietetics with Integrated Foundation Year

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in Dietetics through an additional foundation year, gaining the confidence and knowledge to successfully progress to our full degree.

Our typical offer

32 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.
BSc (Hons) Dietetics with Integrated Foundation Year
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About

Jonathan Sumner, BSc (Hons) Dietetics

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

[ We're proud to rank 4th in the UK for food science subjects in the 2026 Complete University Guide.
[ Top 10 in UK and 1st in the South West for learning opportunities - National Student Survey 2025 (NSS)

 
 
 

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
 
A foundation year is for you if...
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
 

This course is for you if...

you have a passion for nutrition and a desire to help people in need
Stethoscope over heart
you're a team player, ready to work with other healthcare professionals, patients, and families
Two healthcare professionals, one with stethoscope
you want to join an institution at the forefront of nutrition research
Clipboard with heart showing heart beat
you're committed to joining the ranks of registered dietitians making a difference
Badge with cross on, depicting health profession

Details

Year 0

Our Integrated foundation course prepares you for the undergraduate degree in BSc (Hons) Dietetics. Taught by University lecturers on campus, you’ll be part of the University from day one. If your current qualifications don’t allow you direct entry to degree level, this course is for you. Students completing the BSc (Hons) Dietetics with Integrated Foundation Year course will normally progress to year 1 of BSc (Hons) Dietetics .
Dietetic students using facilities in Smeaton

Core modules

BHCS001
Infection, Immunity and Therapeutics 20 credits

This module will provide an introduction to microbiology and the human immune system. Students will learn the fundamental biology relating to bacteria, helminths, viruses and fungi. And also develop an understanding of how our immune system has evolved to combat infection. The module will also explore methods to control microbial contamination and therapeutic strategies to prevent disease.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

BHCS002
Current Developments in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences 20 credits

This module examines the role of science in addressing key contemporary issues in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences. The module aims to take an integrative approach, aiming to develop in students both a critical appreciation of the ways in which issues in Human Biology can be approached and resolved, and to develop an understanding of the skills and attributes needed for effective study of such issues at undergraduate level.

100% Coursework

FMD001
Molecules to Cells 20 credits

This module introduces key concepts involved in cell regulation including genetic inheritance, metabolism and protein expression. The important role of enzymes in the control of biochemical pathways will be introduced, as will an introduction to cell signalling. Cellular organisation within different tissues will also be outlined, enabling students to recognise links between structure and function. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

100% Examinations

FMD002
Introduction to Human Physiology 20 credits

This module will provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Using example systems, it will emphasise relationships between structure and function and examine homeostatic regulation in these systems. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.

50% Examinations

50% Other

FMD004
Interdisciplinary Learning and Team Based Learning (Enquiry learning) 20 credits

This module is designed to enable learners to develop key skills required for working in multidisciplinary teams. Students will be encouraged to work with their colleagues to manage tasks and tailor learning according to their own particular discipline

100% Coursework

SOHP001
Learning Skills for Health and Social Care Professions 20 credits

This module is designed to enable learners to adapt to the learning environment of higher education by developing an independent, reflective and managed approach to learning and professional development.

100% Coursework

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.
3 girls in a lab pouring some green food into a container. Nutrition courses.

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

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

HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1

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

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.
Dietetic students using facilities in Link Level 2 Containment lab (HPLC) (Link building)

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.
Dietetics students during a practical cooking session, Kitchen Lab, Link Building
 
 
 

Progress to the pathway of your choice

This foundation year forms the first stage of your degree.
Although it does not lead to a separate qualification, it is designed to prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed to progress confidently onto Year 1 of our full BSc (Hons) degree:
Please note: in order to successfully complete the BSc (Hons) 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.
Explore our nutrition facilities
students using the nutrition facilities
 
 
 
Rosanna Strickland Dietetics student

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

 
 
 

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.

Health students taking part in PIHC interprofessional learning activity
PIHC interprofessional learning session - 3 students kneeling on the floor looking at an exercise
Nursing students in clinical setting
Nursing students in clinical setting

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.
Dietetics Student insight - Emma Kewell
Isabella dietetics student

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

 
 
 

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


Professor in Dietetics

Dr Avril Collinson Associate Professor in Dietetics


Associate Professor in Dietetics

Dr Tracey Parkin Associate Professor


Associate Professor

Show all
 
 
 
 
 
 

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

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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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

Lynsey Spillman – Alumni Profile

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

 
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.
  • >

    94% of dietetics graduates agree that their current activity is meaningful

  • ]

    100% of our dietetics graduates are in work or further study

  • Æ

    100% of dietetics graduates in highly skilled work said their degree was a formal requirement or gave them an advantage

 
Claire Davis –  BSc (Hons) Dietetics

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

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
On Monday 20 October 2025, the UK Government announced its intention to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students in line with inflation from 2026 onwards.
Along with other universities in the UK, the University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee. Whilst the exact details have not currently been announced, it is expected that the increase will be in the region of £400, increasing the annual tuition fee to £9,935 for 2026, which will then be subject to automatic inflationary increases thereafter. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to further Government guidance and legislation. 
The University will give further details to both prospective and current students as soon as the Government has issued further information. 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
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 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.
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.
Further information
 Additional costs for health courses . 
 
 
 
 

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.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
Applicants need to achieve 5 GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) which must include the following subjects:
  • English (Consideration may be given to equivalent literacy qualifications)
  • Mathematics (Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics)
  • Science
Students not achieving mathematics GCSE at grade C/4 on application may be offered a free online mathematics support package and an examination equivalent to C grade GCSE to enable the achievement of appropriate entry requirements prior to commencing the programme. This examination is offered during the recruitment cycle to all eligible candidates.

A levels
32 points from a minimum of 2 A levels including grade E in a Science subject. Food technology is a relevant subject. Excluding General Studies.
Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without science qualifications at level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This course is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications and who have the equivalent of basic mathematical, English and science skills (i.e. the equivalent of a grade C/4 at GCSE level).

BTEC
PPP in a science related subject.

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, a minimum of a Pass (D or E in the Core) = 72 points – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.

International Baccalaureate
24 overall to include 3 at Higher Level science subject. English and mathematics must be included.

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
B419
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    32 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.
     
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    B419
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    4 years
    (with placements)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) . 
     
     
     
     

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    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
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