Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This final-year entry route focuses on advanced topics in human nutrition, practical skills and independent research. Teaching combines lectures, laboratory work, seminars and a substantial research project or dissertation. Modules typically include:

• Advanced Human and Clinical Nutrition – detailed study of macro- and micronutrient metabolism, life-course nutrition and nutritional considerations in clinical conditions.
• Nutritional Biochemistry and Physiology – laboratory-based investigation of biochemical pathways, nutritional assessment techniques and interpretation of biochemical markers.
• Public Health and Community Nutrition – theory and practice of nutrition promotion, population-level interventions and determinants of dietary behaviour.
• Research Project (Dissertation) – an independent piece of research supervised by academic staff, including project design, data collection/analysis and written reporting.
• Food Systems, Policy and Ethics – exploration of food supply, sustainability, food policy and the ethical dimensions of food choices.
• Methods and Statistics for Nutrition Research – applied research methods, critical appraisal of literature and statistical techniques relevant to nutrition science.
• Professional Practice and Communication – development of skills for workplace settings, evidence-based communication and interprofessional working.

Assessment is typically by a mix of practical reports, written exams, presentations and the final research project. The programme places emphasis on real-world application, laboratory competence and transferable research skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have successfully completed an appropriate HND, foundation degree or equivalent qualification in nutrition, health, biomedical science or a closely related subject. Admissions normally require demonstration of relevant scientific content in prior study and satisfactory performance at sub-honours level. You will also need to meet the University's general admissions standards, including English language proficiency if English is not your first language.

Applicants are typically asked to provide a personal statement outlining prior study and reasons for applying, and one or more academic or professional references. Where relevant, applicants with appropriate work experience in nutrition or allied health settings may be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates of this top-up are prepared for a range of roles in the nutrition and health sector or for further study. Common career paths include:

• Nutritionist or nutrition adviser positions in community health, public health teams and non-governmental organisations.
• Roles in the food industry such as product development, quality assurance, nutrition labelling and consumer affairs.
• Research assistant positions in academic or applied research groups and public health agencies.
• Health promotion and behaviour-change roles in local authorities, charities and private sector providers.
• Progression to postgraduate study (MSc/PhD) in nutrition, public health, dietetics (where eligible) or related disciplines.

Where the full honours programme is accredited, graduates may be eligible to pursue professional registration routes through recognised bodies; applicants should check accreditation status if professional registration is a required outcome.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practical, student-focused environment with staff who combine academic qualifications and applied experience in nutrition and health. The university emphasises hands-on laboratory training, applied research and close staff supervision for final-year projects. Small-group teaching and access to specialist facilities help students develop laboratory competence and research skills.

The university's location provides opportunities for links with local NHS trusts, public health organisations and food companies for project collaborations and placements. Support services for academic skills, careers guidance and employability are available to help top-up students make the transition into graduate roles or postgraduate study.