University of Hull

What you'll study

This pre-registration MSc integrates applied nutritional science, clinical dietetic practice and research methods. Teaching typically covers human metabolism and physiology, therapeutic nutrition across the life course, medical nutrition therapy (including enteral and parenteral feeding), community and public health nutrition, and behaviour change and counselling skills. The programme emphasises practical competence through structured, supervised placements in hospital, community and specialised settings, and includes training in nutritional assessment, dietetic treatment planning, clinical reasoning and interprofessional working.

Research and evidence-based practice are core elements: you will study research design, statistics and critical appraisal, and complete a dissertation or applied project that addresses a real-world dietetic or nutrition problem. Practical skills sessions and simulation-based learning support development of professional communication, documentation and clinical governance capabilities required for practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as nutrition, dietetics, biomedical science, nursing, sports science or another bioscience. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant healthcare experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Prior demonstrable experience in healthcare or community nutrition, such as volunteering or paid work, is highly desirable.

Because this is a pre-registration programme leading to clinical practice, applicants must meet professional and statutory requirements before placement, such as an enhanced criminal records check, occupational health clearance (including relevant immunisations) and evidence of English language competence. International applicants are expected to demonstrate a high level of English (for example, by an international English test at a level appropriate for clinical communication and record-keeping).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a career as registered dietitians providing clinical and community dietetic services. Typical employment destinations include the NHS (hospital wards, outpatient clinics, specialist services), community health services, private practice, and charitable or non-governmental organisations working in nutrition and public health. Other routes include roles in the food industry (product development, regulatory affairs, nutrition communications), sports nutrition, health promotion, education and research. Many graduates also go on to further postgraduate research (PhD) or specialist clinical roles.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers a practice-focused programme with established links to local NHS trusts and community providers, ensuring varied and supervised placement opportunities across acute and community settings. Teaching is delivered by staff who combine academic expertise with clinical experience in dietetics and nutrition, and students benefit from practical facilities and simulation to develop hands-on assessment and counselling skills.

The course is structured to support the transition to professional practice, with integrated clinical governance and interprofessional learning to reflect real-world service delivery. The department’s applied research activity informs teaching and provides opportunities for students to undertake clinically relevant projects that can enhance employability in both clinical and non-clinical nutrition careers.