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School of Biomedical Sciences

BSc (Hons) Nutrition, Exercise and Health

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UCAS tariff 112 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code BC46
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth

Lack of physical activity and poor diet increasingly contribute to obesity and chronic diseases. This course will give you an insight into the key disciplines that relate exercise and nutrition to health. You’ll also develop the practical skills, critical awareness and proficiencies required for professional competence. You’ll graduate ready for employment in the food or fitness industries, health promotion, lifestyle education or public health.

First choice for health

Delivered by professional experts, our programmes are tailored to you and your career. Together, we address today's most challenging healthcare issues, through research-informed teaching and active, real-world learning. #firstchoiceforhealth

Careers with this subject
This degree is accredited with the Association for Nutrition which allows graduates direct entry onto the register of Associate Nutritionists.
Nutritionists work with clients to improve their health, control their weight or to improve their sports performance. They may work in public health to provide lifestyle education to individuals and groups and develop public health policy. Nutritionists also work in the food industry advising on nutrition labelling, composition of food products and devising menus for schools, prisons, weight loss companies and hospitals.
Also offered, as part of this programme, is a Level 3 Personal Training award. This allows graduates to work in the leisure or fitness industries as a personal trainer and advise on appropriate exercise for clients. Further postgraduate study is possible for careers in dietetics, physiotherapy, cardiac rehabilitation, exercise physiology, physician associate studies and other health and sports related careers.
Understanding where your degree subject could take you is an important first step in career planning. Due to the transferrable nature of the skills you gain from your studies, you may discover that there is a much wider range of opportunities open to you within this profession that you may first appreciate.

Key features
  • Study with the Faculty of Health and benefit from strong links with nursing, health professions and psychology.
  • Benefit from accreditation by the Association for Nutrition which allows graduates to apply for direct entry onto the register of Associate Nutritionists.
  • Boost your employability by taking the option to complete a professional work placement.
  • Develop practical skills, critical awareness and proficiencies required for professional competence.
  • Gain a strong foundation in the major disciplines underpinning exercise and nutritional sciences.
  • Experience interdisciplinary teaching that addresses contemporary issues in lifestyle-related health.
  • Gain a positive learning experience within a work setting that will support your studies and future employability – the school offers 12 work placements between stage 2 and the final year of your course.
  • Further your learning to postgraduate level and set yourself up for careers in dietetics, physiotherapy, cardiac rehabilitation, exercise physiology, and other health and sports related careers.
  • Take the opportunity to earn a Level 3 Personal Training award.
  • The school typically offers a limited number of research summer placements – these are available at the end of stages 1 and 2. These competitive placements are available for students who demonstrate excellent performance in their studies and allow students to gain valuable research experience within the Biomedical Research Group .

Progression options

This course has a progression route onto medicine and dentistry for graduates who meet the following requirements:
  • On track to gain 1st class (>70%) or already holds a 1st class Biomedical Science degree with us achieved in the two years prior to applying.
  • GAMSAT requirement waived.
  • Satisfactory performance in interview.
  • Satisfactory DBS check and occupational health screening.
For further information regarding admissions and interviews, please contact us at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • In your first year, you'll be introduced to the core sciences underpinning nutrition and exercise science: human physiology, biochemistry, infection and immunity, psychology and nutrition. You'll develop skills in communication, data manipulation and IT. You will experience a mixture of learning opportunities: lectures with other students in the School of Biomedical Sciences; small group tutorials; practical classes in the biomedical laboratories, nutrition unit and IT suite, self-directed study and group work.

    Core modules

    BHCS1010
    Introduction to Human Nutrition 20 credits

    This module will introduce learners to the science, application and consequences of food choice and lifestyle on human nutritional health.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1011
    Study skills and personal development 0 credits

    This module supports the development of key study and learning skills. Timetabled tutorials will help promote self-reflection and provide a framework for personal development planning and careers.

    BHCS1017
    Investigation and Experimentation in Nutrition & Exercise Sciences 20 credits

    To introduce the learner to key elements of investigation and experimentation within the biomedical and nutritional sciences and to support the development of the basic skills and knowledge required for effective practice in these discipline areas.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    BHCS1006
    Infection and Immunity 20 credits

    This module introduces the student to infection & immunity and the study of microorganisms with a particular emphasis on food-borne pathogens. It explores concepts of food safety, gut organisms, infectious disease and the body's ability to resist and repel such disease via a range of immune responses.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1020
    Physiology & 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 nutrition.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    HIPL400
    Interprofessional Learning 1

    PSYC427
    Psychobiological and Cognitive Aspects of Health Behaviour 20 credits

    This module introduces the psychology of choices and behaviour, with an emphasis on health. We will examine health behaviours, choices, and risks with a particular consideration of how these are influenced by biological and social factors. Students will have the opportunity to design and conduct research projects in groups, with presentation of this project forming the assessment for the module, in addition to assessment by Multiple Choice Test.

    100% Coursework

    BHCS1021
    Nutritional Biochemistry

    This module offers an introduction to the biochemistry underlying human metabolism. In particular, the module explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the human body extracts energy from nutrients to sustain life. The significance of metabolic dysfunction in relation to human disease pathology and diagnosis is emphasised.

  • Year 2

  • In your second year, learning becomes more focused on the applied and practical aspects of nutrition and exercise. You will develop skills for professional practice and research. There will be a variety of different teaching approaches such as interactive lectures, small group tutorials, practical work in the exercise physiology laboratory, student led seminars and workshops.

    Core modules

    BHCS2021
    Nutritional and Exercise Epidemiology 20 credits

    This module focuses on approaches to the study of and the relationships between diet, physical activity and health-related outcomes

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    BHCS2022
    Nutritional Science 1 20 credits

    This module focuses on core skills and techniques required by nutritionists including assessment of body composition, generation of data, statistical analysis of findings, interpretation and application of findings. It also explores the physiological and metabolic background to nutrition through the lifecycle.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2023
    Exercise Physiology 20 credits

    This module explores how the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and muscular systems respond to support the increased energy requirements during exercise and how each of these physiological systems adapt to longer-term exercise training in humans. The laboratory practical element is focused on the development of skills in the collection and interpretation of physiological data related to measuring different fitness components.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2025
    Nutritional Science 2 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.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2027
    Placements and Employability 0 credits

    BHCS2033
    Applied Exercise Science 20 credits

    This module explores the theoretical basis underpinning exercise programming including the principles of training and their application toward improving different components of fitness across a range of populations.

    100% Coursework

    PSYC522
    Individual Differences in Behaviour 20 credits

    The aim of this module is to give an overview of how individuals vary in thinking, behaviour, and emotion, and the consequences this may have for their physical and mental health. This module consists of four strands. 1 Personality & Intelligence (development, measurement) 2 Health Psychology (physical health, behaviour change) 3 Clinical Psychology (definition, therapy) 4 Positive Psychology (mental health improvement)

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    HIPL500
    Interprofessional Learning 2

  • Optional placement year

  • You have the option to take up a work placement as part of your degree course for a minimum six months full time (or part-time equivalent). If you successfully complete your placement, you'll be awarded a Certificate of Work Experience.

    Core modules

    BHCS3030
    Biomedical Sciences: Placement 0 credits

    This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved placement provider or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

  • Final year

  • In your final year, you will study the interacting contributions of nutrition and exercise to public health and their roles in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle related disease. Other topics include sports nutrition and applied psychology. You'll also have a choice of research project to suit your career aspirations. The final year entails more self-directed study and you will spend time on your own research project and reading current research to discuss during interactive lectures.

    Core modules

    BHCS3001ZA
    Personal Research Project

    The module requires students to perform a self-directed research study project that includes the design, implementation, collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific data. It also involves the evaluation and interpretation of scientific literature, evaluation of current issues and concepts and the ability to reflect upon continuing professional and personal development.

    BHCS3023Z
    Athletic Performance, Sport and Nutrition

    This module is designed to enable learners to provide advice to individuals engaged in exercise, sport or other activities requiring sustained effort. It will provide opportunities to assess nutrition and food impact on performance and health of those engaged in regular exercise programmes.

    BHCS3024Z
    Diet, Exercise and Chronic Disease

    This module examines the roles of diet and exercise in the development and management of chronic disease states. The focus is on the major chronic diseases - obesity, CVD, type2 diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis.

    BHCS3025Z
    Physical Activity, Nutrition and Public Health

    This module examines the roles of physical activity and nutrition in the promotion of health throughout the lifecycle. It reviews epidemiological and experimental evidence for the development of intervention strategies and policy aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles.

    BHCS3031
    Personal Development and Employability 0 credits

    The module aims to provide personal academic support and careers guidance. It will provide a forum for students to discuss their achievements and develop plans to address potential areas of weakness and achieve future career and professional goals.

    HIPL600
    Interprofessional Learning 3

    Optional modules

    BHCS3022
    Contemporary Issues in Human Health 20 credits

    Rapid developments in the biomedical sciences are affecting many aspects of human health, and there are profound economic, social, legal and ethical implications of many recent advances. This module allows students to select topics of personal interest for in-depth study and encourages effective communication to peers and other audiences, providing good skills for future career development

    70% Coursework

    30% Examinations

    PSYC608
    Applied Topics in Psychology 1 20 credits

    This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

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.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

112

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: Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics and English. Consideration may be given to equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills.
Plus one of the following:
A level: 112 tariff points to include a minimum of 3 A levels, including grade B in Biology/Human Biology and grade C in second science. Excluding General Studies.
Relevant second sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography, Psychology, Physical Education, and Food/Nutrition Technology.
Access to HE Diploma: Pass an Access to HE Diploma with 33 Level 3 credits at merit or distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Biology and 18 Level 3 credits in Chemistry, Maths, or Physics.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DMM – depending on the BTEC and units studied. If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application or contact Admissions for further advice.
T level: Accepted – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.
International Baccalaureate: 26 points overall to include grade 5 in Higher Level Biology and grade 5 in a second relevant science. English and Mathematics accepted within as GCSE equivalent at higher level = 4, standard level = 5.
International qualifications: We welcome applicants offering a wide range of international qualifications. Applications are considered on an individual basis, depending on the subjects studied.
IELTS: Overall average score of at least 6.5, with a score of at least 6.0 in all elements.
Other qualifications: Applicants with other qualifications should contact Admissions for advice.
Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this course.

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early 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.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Health and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Health additional costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for home undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,905.
The fee for home undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2025/2026 is £1,430.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Progression routes

International progression routes

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

Top 4 for food science

We're proud to rank 4th in the UK for food science subjects in the 2026 Complete University Guide.
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.
Complete University Guide logo
 
 

Nutrition, Exercise and Health facilities

Explore our laboratories, specifically designed and equipped for the study of nutrition and exercise:
  • Kitchen Laboratory: a hands-on learning environment allowing you to gain practical experience in cooking and preparing food.
  • Exercise Laboratory: analyse the physiological responses and adaptions to exercise and diet.
  • Phlebotomy Laboratory: designed for the collection of biological samples including blood and saliva samples.
  • Analytical Laboratory: specifically dedicated to the testing, analysis and evaluation of food products.
Students being shown equipment in the Exercise Laboratory, Smeaton Building

Gain a positive learning experience within a work setting that will support your studies and future employability

We offer work placements, an optional placement year and research summer placements
Nutrition students - anthropometry practical
Luke Solomi Nutrition Exercise and Health student 

Nutrition, exercise and health student Luke Solomi leads research

New research shows that artificially-sweetened cola could be a suitable substitute for people who want to reduce their sugar consumption as it does not cause a spike in blood glucose levels
Third-year nutrition, exercise and health student Luke Solomi conducted the research on a summer studentship funded by the Nutrition Society.

Let our graduates inspire you

Bradley Morton
Bradley is working for Devon and Somerset Fire Service as a Nutrition and Health Advisor
Kimberley Yeung
Kimberley is working as an Adult Weight Management Co-ordinator and Service Manager with Everyone Health

Rachel Hine – BSc (Hons) Nutrition, Exercise and Health graduate

"Since studying nutrition, exercise and health at the University of Plymouth, I have been provided with numerous opportunities from the course and supportive members of staff.”
"My scientific skills and understanding have progressed and I have been grateful to receive a prize for my academic performance. I have undertaken a project awarded by the Nutrition Society addressing whether sleeping patterns alongside other maternal lifestyle factors affect weight gain during pregnancy. This has given me confidence and invaluable skills to carry out research."
"My involvement in projects outside of the course have included promoting healthy eating to children through helping develop recipes for a story book and leading presentations on sport-related nutrition. Overall, my experience has been both exciting and challenging and I look forward to applying what I have learnt in the future."
Rachel Hine

Could sleep affect weight gain in pregnancy?

Rachel won a studentship worth £2,500 to engage in an eight-week research project to address this question.

Find out more about the research

Doctor and patient using digital tablet in hospital - Getty images 838723420
Our facilities