STUDY
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Institution code: | S82 |
---|---|
UCAS code: | BB49 |
Start date: | September 2025 |
Duration: | Three years full-time, five years part-time |
Location: | Ipswich |
Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level) |
Institution code: | S82 |
---|---|
UCAS code: | BB49 |
Start date: | September 2025 |
Duration: | Three years full-time, five years part-time |
---|---|
Location: | Ipswich |
Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level) |
Institution code: | S82 |
---|---|
UCAS code: | BB49 |
Start date: | September 2026 |
Duration: | Three years full-time, five years part-time |
Location: | Ipswich |
Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level) |
Institution code: | S82 |
---|---|
UCAS code: | BB49 |
Start date: | September 2026 |
Duration: | Three years full-time, five years part-time |
---|---|
Location: | Ipswich |
Typical Offer: | 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level) |
Overview
Nutrition is recognised as a cornerstone in the maintenance of health, wellbeing, and longevity with the power to reduce the economic and social burden on health systems. The BSc (Hons) Nutrition and Human Health degree program will take you on an exciting journey to become a competent nutritionist.
While studying for the degree, you will examine various aspects of the science of nutrition including biochemistry, metabolism, food systems, food composition, dietary analysis, molecular aspects of food nutrients, social/behavioural aspects, health and wellbeing, and professional conduct, leading to a full understanding of the dietary role in disease prevention and health management. Through this journey, you will be trained to identify signs and risks of under-, and overnutrition whether and how to assess the energy and nutritional status overall. Other interesting and contemporary areas are nutrition across lifespan, integrative and adaptive metabolic aspects, nutritional research methodologies, functional ingredients and bioactives, probiotics, prebiotics, gut microbiota, food intolerances, functional bowel disorders, and nutrition in mental health. The relevance of these areas of knowledge to human health is the focal point of this degree.
In addition to supplementing theoretical knowledge with practical skills through laboratory and physiological study sessions, there is the opportunity for you to partake in research projects in the latest topics in nutrition and human health either in vitro or with human participants.
This combination of subjects gives you the breadth and depth of knowledge to undertake physiological and anthropometric assessments, carry out laboratory analysis of nutrients and offer evidence-based professional advice on diet and lifestyle. As a graduate of this degree, you will be equipped with knowledge for the workplace and follow a career as a nutritionist, researcher, or educator. The broad and robust scientific skills, communication skills, and creative thinking developed on the programme will make you particularly attractive to companies and organisations searching for scientists capable of dealing with data in epidemiological fields.
Further information about the University's relationship with the Association for Nutrition is available in the PSRB register.
Accreditation
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This course has received a formal accreditation by the Association for Nutrition.
Course Modules
Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.
There is an optional work-based module, which provides an excellent opportunity for you to gain relevant work experience and enhance your employability skills. In addition, students at all levels are encouraged to seek out appropriate relevant work experience, either voluntary or paid in their spare time, as a means to improve their employability skills and to network with potential future employers.
Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.
This module explores the principles of food production and processing, with a focus on ensuring nutritional quality, safety, and sustainability. You will examine the impact of various production techniques on nutrient retention, shelf life, and food safety. Key topics include spoilage, contamination, food legislation, and quality assurance systems. The module integrates real-world case studies, site visits, and workshops to provide practical insight into food supply chains and public health implications. By combining knowledge from biochemistry, microbiology, and nutrition, you'll develop a critical understanding of how food quality is managed from farm to fork. This prepares them for careers in food science, public health, or industry regulation.
This module introduces the biochemical foundations essential to understanding nutrition and human health. You will explore atomic structure, chemical bonding, and the properties of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Core topics include enzyme function, metabolic pathways, and energy production. These fundamental concepts are examined in the context of human physiology, enabling you to understand how molecular processes underpin health and disease. Practical laboratory work reinforces theoretical knowledge and helps develop essential skills in analytical techniques. This module lays the groundwork for more advanced exploration of metabolic health and clinical nutrition in later stages of the degree.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and function of the human body. You will investigate the organisation of cells, tissues, and organs, and examine key systems including cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and nervous systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding how these systems interact to maintain homeostasis and respond to internal and external stimuli. Theoretical knowledge is reinforced through laboratory-based practicals, where you explore anatomical models and physiological measurements. This foundational module is essential for understanding health, disease, and the biological basis of nutrition interventions in subsequent stages of the course.
This module develops core academic and scientific competencies required for success in biosciences. You will learn how to conduct literature searches, evaluate sources, and interpret scientific evidence. The module also introduces principles of experimental design, hypothesis testing, and statistical analysis. A strong focus is placed on developing clear and accurate communication of scientific findings through posters, reports, and oral presentations. You will work independently and in groups to design investigations, analyse data, and present conclusions. These skills are essential preparation for the research-focused components of the degree and will support academic performance across all modules.
This practical module introduces you to the fundamentals of scientific investigation in the context of nutrition. Through hands-on laboratory and workshop sessions, you will develop skills in experimental design, data collection, and scientific reporting. Emphasis is placed on accurate record keeping, ethical research practices, and critical evaluation of evidence. You will also learn to write laboratory reports and communicate findings using appropriate scientific formats. This module is designed to build confidence in conducting small-scale investigations and lays the foundation for more advanced research work in Levels 5 and 6, including the dissertation.
This module deepens your understanding of how nutrients are digested, absorbed, and metabolised in the human body. Building on biochemical and physiological knowledge from Level 4, it explores the roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in energy production, metabolic pathways, and cellular function. You will examine how nutritional needs change across the lifespan and in different health contexts, including during illness, exercise, or dietary restriction. Practical sessions introduce dietary analysis tools and nutrikinetic calculations to assess nutritional status. The module also considers nutrigenetics, metabolism under stress, and the principles of nutritional adaptation. By integrating theory and practice, you develop a scientific understanding of how diet influences metabolism and health outcomes.
This module introduces you to the principles and practices of health promotion within a public health nutrition context. You will explore behavioural theories, determinants of health, and the role of education and communication in promoting healthier lifestyles. Key topics include needs assessment, programme design, community engagement, and social marketing. The module also covers the use of epidemiological tools to identify at-risk populations and measure intervention impact. Through group work and applied tasks, you will design and present a health promotion campaign tailored to a specific community. This module builds essential skills for working in public health, advocacy, and nutrition outreach roles.
This module investigates the causes, consequences, and treatment of obesity through a multidisciplinary lens. You will explore physiological mechanisms of appetite regulation, energy expenditure, and fat storage, as well as behavioural and environmental contributors to weight gain. The impact of obesity on metabolic health, including links to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation, is examined in detail. Evidence-based approaches to prevention and management—such as dietary strategies, behaviour change techniques, and emerging therapies—are critically evaluated. You also consider societal, psychological, and policy-level influences on obesity trends. This module prepares you to address obesity in clinical, research, and public health contexts.
This practical module bridges scientific knowledge of nutrition with the culinary skills needed to support health in everyday life. You will learn how cooking methods impact nutrient retention, taste, and texture, and how to prepare balanced meals using diverse ingredients and cultural approaches. Topics include food science, portion control, cost-efficiency, sustainability, and food waste reduction. Through hands-on cooking workshops and reflective assessments, you will develop skills to translate dietary recommendations into practical, enjoyable, and sustainable food choices. The module is highly relevant to roles in clinical nutrition, health promotion, community work, and educational outreach, where culinary competence supports effective nutrition communication.
This module explores the biological mechanisms that underlie disease development, with an emphasis on the interface between genetics, environment, and lifestyle. You will investigate common pathological processes such as inflammation, infection, and neoplasia, alongside specific conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. A strong focus is placed on the molecular and cellular basis of disease, enabling you to connect physiological dysfunction with clinical signs and diagnostic tools. The module also considers how nutrition can influence disease risk, progression, and treatment. Case studies and laboratory work support critical thinking and scientific enquiry, preparing you to apply this knowledge in clinical and public health settings.
This module examines the gut as a dynamic ecosystem central to human health. You will study the composition and function of the gut microbiota, its interaction with diet, and its role in immune modulation, metabolism, and disease prevention. Topics include the gut–brain axis, barrier function, microbial metabolites, and dietary components such as fibre, probiotics, and polyphenols. Emphasis is placed on current research and practical dietary strategies to support gut health. By integrating knowledge from microbiology, nutrition, and immunology, you will develop a holistic understanding of how the gut influences health and disease. This module is highly relevant to careers in nutrition science, research, and functional health consultancy.
This module investigates the nutritional strategies that support performance, recovery, and health in physically active populations. You will explore the interplay between macronutrients, hydration, and energy metabolism during different forms of exercise. The module covers evidence-based approaches to fuelling, recovery, immune function, and body composition management. Topics also include supplementation, periodised nutrition, and the specific needs of athletes versus the general population. You will evaluate current guidelines, develop personalised nutrition plans, and assess the effectiveness of interventions. The module prepares you for roles in sport and exercise nutrition, public health, or lifestyle coaching, where performance-based dietary guidance is needed.
This module explores the role of nutrition in managing disease across the human lifespan. You will integrate knowledge of physiology, metabolism, and pathology to understand nutritional interventions for specific conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Weekly clinical case studies enable you to apply theory to real-world scenarios, considering patient-centred factors such as age, culture, and socioeconomic background. The role of registered dietitians and clinical nutrition guidelines is examined. You also develop communication skills to translate dietary recommendations into accessible formats. This module prepares you for careers in clinical settings and forms a foundation for dietetic postgraduate training.
This capstone module gives students the opportunity to conduct an original, independent research project in a chosen area of nutrition and human health. With academic supervision, you will develop a research question, conduct a literature review, design and execute a study, analyse results, and present findings in a formal dissertation. Projects may be experimental, observational, or literature-based, and must demonstrate ethical awareness and methodological rigour. This module consolidates scientific and critical thinking skills developed throughout the course. It serves as vital preparation for postgraduate study, academic publishing, or applying research in practice-based roles within the health and nutrition sector.
This module enhances your readiness for independent scientific enquiry by building advanced research skills essential for the final-year dissertation and future professional roles. You will refine their abilities in literature appraisal, research design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. Emphasis is placed on ethics, funding applications, and the communication of research findings in professional formats. You will gain experience in critical evaluation, hypothesis formulation, and data interpretation through practical tasks and workshops. By the end of the module, you will be well-equipped to carry out a self-directed research project and contribute confidently to evidence-based practice or further academic study.
Course Modules
Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as block and blend' — more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.
There is an optional work-based module, which provides an excellent opportunity for you to gain relevant work experience and enhance your employability skills. In addition, students at all levels are encouraged to seek out appropriate relevant work experience, either voluntary or paid in their spare time, as a means to improve their employability skills and to network with potential future employers.
Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.
/prod01/channel_2/media/uniofsuffolk/website/content-assets/images/course-mastheads/ipswich-courses/Nutition-and-Human-Health-(FY)-UG_Masthead-1-640X640.jpg)
This module explores the principles of food production and processing, with a focus on ensuring nutritional quality, safety, and sustainability. You will examine the impact of various production techniques on nutrient retention, shelf life, and food safety. Key topics include spoilage, contamination, food legislation, and quality assurance systems. The module integrates real-world case studies, site visits, and workshops to provide practical insight into food supply chains and public health implications. By combining knowledge from biochemistry, microbiology, and nutrition, you'll develop a critical understanding of how food quality is managed from farm to fork. This prepares them for careers in food science, public health, or industry regulation.
This module introduces the biochemical foundations essential to understanding nutrition and human health. You will explore atomic structure, chemical bonding, and the properties of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Core topics include enzyme function, metabolic pathways, and energy production. These fundamental concepts are examined in the context of human physiology, enabling you to understand how molecular processes underpin health and disease. Practical laboratory work reinforces theoretical knowledge and helps develop essential skills in analytical techniques. This module lays the groundwork for more advanced exploration of metabolic health and clinical nutrition in later stages of the degree.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and function of the human body. You will investigate the organisation of cells, tissues, and organs, and examine key systems including cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and nervous systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding how these systems interact to maintain homeostasis and respond to internal and external stimuli. Theoretical knowledge is reinforced through laboratory-based practicals, where you explore anatomical models and physiological measurements. This foundational module is essential for understanding health, disease, and the biological basis of nutrition interventions in subsequent stages of the course.
This module develops core academic and scientific competencies required for success in biosciences. You will learn how to conduct literature searches, evaluate sources, and interpret scientific evidence. The module also introduces principles of experimental design, hypothesis testing, and statistical analysis. A strong focus is placed on developing clear and accurate communication of scientific findings through posters, reports, and oral presentations. You will work independently and in groups to design investigations, analyse data, and present conclusions. These skills are essential preparation for the research-focused components of the degree and will support academic performance across all modules.
This practical module introduces you to the fundamentals of scientific investigation in the context of nutrition. Through hands-on laboratory and workshop sessions, you will develop skills in experimental design, data collection, and scientific reporting. Emphasis is placed on accurate record keeping, ethical research practices, and critical evaluation of evidence. You will also learn to write laboratory reports and communicate findings using appropriate scientific formats. This module is designed to build confidence in conducting small-scale investigations and lays the foundation for more advanced research work in Levels 5 and 6, including the dissertation.
This module deepens your understanding of how nutrients are digested, absorbed, and metabolised in the human body. Building on biochemical and physiological knowledge from Level 4, it explores the roles of macronutrients and micronutrients in energy production, metabolic pathways, and cellular function. You will examine how nutritional needs change across the lifespan and in different health contexts, including during illness, exercise, or dietary restriction. Practical sessions introduce dietary analysis tools and nutrikinetic calculations to assess nutritional status. The module also considers nutrigenetics, metabolism under stress, and the principles of nutritional adaptation. By integrating theory and practice, you develop a scientific understanding of how diet influences metabolism and health outcomes.
This module introduces you to the principles and practices of health promotion within a public health nutrition context. You will explore behavioural theories, determinants of health, and the role of education and communication in promoting healthier lifestyles. Key topics include needs assessment, programme design, community engagement, and social marketing. The module also covers the use of epidemiological tools to identify at-risk populations and measure intervention impact. Through group work and applied tasks, you will design and present a health promotion campaign tailored to a specific community. This module builds essential skills for working in public health, advocacy, and nutrition outreach roles.
This module investigates the causes, consequences, and treatment of obesity through a multidisciplinary lens. You will explore physiological mechanisms of appetite regulation, energy expenditure, and fat storage, as well as behavioural and environmental contributors to weight gain. The impact of obesity on metabolic health, including links to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation, is examined in detail. Evidence-based approaches to prevention and management—such as dietary strategies, behaviour change techniques, and emerging therapies—are critically evaluated. You also consider societal, psychological, and policy-level influences on obesity trends. This module prepares you to address obesity in clinical, research, and public health contexts.
This practical module bridges scientific knowledge of nutrition with the culinary skills needed to support health in everyday life. You will learn how cooking methods impact nutrient retention, taste, and texture, and how to prepare balanced meals using diverse ingredients and cultural approaches. Topics include food science, portion control, cost-efficiency, sustainability, and food waste reduction. Through hands-on cooking workshops and reflective assessments, you will develop skills to translate dietary recommendations into practical, enjoyable, and sustainable food choices. The module is highly relevant to roles in clinical nutrition, health promotion, community work, and educational outreach, where culinary competence supports effective nutrition communication.
This module explores the biological mechanisms that underlie disease development, with an emphasis on the interface between genetics, environment, and lifestyle. You will investigate common pathological processes such as inflammation, infection, and neoplasia, alongside specific conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. A strong focus is placed on the molecular and cellular basis of disease, enabling you to connect physiological dysfunction with clinical signs and diagnostic tools. The module also considers how nutrition can influence disease risk, progression, and treatment. Case studies and laboratory work support critical thinking and scientific enquiry, preparing you to apply this knowledge in clinical and public health settings.
This module examines the gut as a dynamic ecosystem central to human health. You will study the composition and function of the gut microbiota, its interaction with diet, and its role in immune modulation, metabolism, and disease prevention. Topics include the gut–brain axis, barrier function, microbial metabolites, and dietary components such as fibre, probiotics, and polyphenols. Emphasis is placed on current research and practical dietary strategies to support gut health. By integrating knowledge from microbiology, nutrition, and immunology, you will develop a holistic understanding of how the gut influences health and disease. This module is highly relevant to careers in nutrition science, research, and functional health consultancy.
This module investigates the nutritional strategies that support performance, recovery, and health in physically active populations. You will explore the interplay between macronutrients, hydration, and energy metabolism during different forms of exercise. The module covers evidence-based approaches to fuelling, recovery, immune function, and body composition management. Topics also include supplementation, periodised nutrition, and the specific needs of athletes versus the general population. You will evaluate current guidelines, develop personalised nutrition plans, and assess the effectiveness of interventions. The module prepares you for roles in sport and exercise nutrition, public health, or lifestyle coaching, where performance-based dietary guidance is needed.
This module explores the role of nutrition in managing disease across the human lifespan. You will integrate knowledge of physiology, metabolism, and pathology to understand nutritional interventions for specific conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Weekly clinical case studies enable you to apply theory to real-world scenarios, considering patient-centred factors such as age, culture, and socioeconomic background. The role of registered dietitians and clinical nutrition guidelines is examined. You also develop communication skills to translate dietary recommendations into accessible formats. This module prepares you for careers in clinical settings and forms a foundation for dietetic postgraduate training.
This capstone module gives students the opportunity to conduct an original, independent research project in a chosen area of nutrition and human health. With academic supervision, you will develop a research question, conduct a literature review, design and execute a study, analyse results, and present findings in a formal dissertation. Projects may be experimental, observational, or literature-based, and must demonstrate ethical awareness and methodological rigour. This module consolidates scientific and critical thinking skills developed throughout the course. It serves as vital preparation for postgraduate study, academic publishing, or applying research in practice-based roles within the health and nutrition sector.
This module enhances your readiness for independent scientific enquiry by building advanced research skills essential for the final-year dissertation and future professional roles. You will refine their abilities in literature appraisal, research design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing. Emphasis is placed on ethics, funding applications, and the communication of research findings in professional formats. You will gain experience in critical evaluation, hypothesis formulation, and data interpretation through practical tasks and workshops. By the end of the module, you will be well-equipped to carry out a self-directed research project and contribute confidently to evidence-based practice or further academic study.
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WHY SUFFOLK
2nd in the UK for Career Prospects
WUSCA 20243rd in the UK for spend on academic services
Complete University Guide 20254th in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction
Guardian University Guide 2024Entry Requirements
Entry Requirements
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Career Opportunities
The programme recognises the importance of equipping you with appropriate knowledge and expertise that can readily be employed within the workplace or in post-graduate study. Additionally, the course prepares students for higher level study such as a PGCE (e.g. science teacher training), Master’s degree or PhD.
Opportunities exist in a wide range of careers in nutrition and health in both the private and public sectors:
- Nutritionist
- Dietetic assistant
- Health Improvement Scientists
- Nutrition Research
- Nutritional evaluation in the food industry
- Public Health Charites
- Local Education Authorities
- Higher level study such as a PGCE (e.g. science teacher training), Master’s degree or PhD.
Recent examples include graduates who now work for the NHS, Nestlé, Yakult, and national and local nutrition and health services.
Science graduates gain a number of transferrable skills such as data handling and analysis. This means that other industries such as insurance, banking and even retail management look to recruit science graduates.
Facilities and Resources
Teaching takes place across the whole of the fantastic Waterfront campus, complete with high quality, modern teaching space supported by excellent AV equipment.
The real jewel in the crown of the facilities for the Nutrition and Human Health Programme is the laboratories of the James Heir Building. The course makes use of the research level science facilities housed within.
The Metabolic Suite is equipped with basal metabolic rate analyser and respiratory quotient evaluation, body composition analysis, blood glucose meters, lipid profile analyser and anthropometric measures. The course benefits from the use of food analysis and microbiology equipment that includes HPLC, GLC and Mass Spectrometry. We also have a human tissue culture facility and a suite of “wet” laboratories suitable for electrophoresis, ELISA and Calorimetry, and gut barrier function analysis. Added to this, a human physiology laboratory and you have a complete package of facilities to support a high quality scientific Nutrition and Human Health degree programme.
Our undergraduates have the opportunity to use state of the art equipment and learn about its uses and application within the industry. We believe that our facilities offer some of the best equipment for undergraduate use in the country and regularly impress visiting academics from other Universities with the access that we provide to such equipment.
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