Sport and Exercise Nutrition (Taught)

Our MSc Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting athletes through nutrition and who wish to work as sports nutrition practitioners or sports nutritionists. As sports nutrition continues to grow in popularity, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is increasing. This programme is a perfect fit for those aiming to work with athletes and active individuals, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills.

The course is developed around the principles of evidence-based nutrition, ensuring that students are trained to deliver reliable and effective nutrition advice. The curriculum emphasises performance nutrition and how it applies to real-life situations in sport, enabling graduates to meet the unique nutritional needs of athletes and sports enthusiasts. Students will study sport nutrition for athletes, focusing on the impact of diet on training, performance, and recovery.

A blend of applied sports nutrition and nutrition science foundations gives students a solid understanding of the body’s energy requirements during different types of physical activity, as well as the skills to craft personalised nutrition plans. By covering exercise nutrition principles, students gain insight into how diet affects the body during various forms of sport and physical activity, including both endurance and strength-based exercises. The course also places significant emphasis on health and wellbeing in sport, teaching students how to support the overall health of active individuals, from weekend warriors to professional athletes.

In addition to technical knowledge, this programme offers practical experience through professional practice in sports nutrition. Students will develop practical skills in assessing and advising on diet and nutrition, gaining the competencies to work with clients confidently and effectively. This practical training is essential for those aspiring to careers in applied sports nutrition, helping graduates to thrive in diverse professional settings.

The programme is accredited by the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr), a respected body for sports nutrition professionals in the UK. With SENr accreditation, graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with qualifications recognised by employers. The curriculum is carefully aligned with SENr competencies, ensuring students meet industry standards.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the MSc Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme is offered on weekends and through a mix of taught and blended learning. This structure allows students to manage both work and study commitments, making it ideal for individuals who require a flexible approach to learning.

Compulsory

Research Methods in Health, Outdoor Education and Physical Literacy (30 credits)
Master's Dissertation in Health, Outdoor Education and Physical Literacy (60 credits)
Advanced Sports Nutrition Practice (30 credits)
Applied Sports Nutrition (30 credits)
Sport and Exercise Nutrition and Metabolism (30 credits)

A variety of assessment will be used to challenge students but also enhance the practical skills required to work in the area of sports nutrition. There is a strong academic focus within the programme alongside the development of practical skills.

Assessments will include essays, laboratory reports, case studies, practical tasks and presentations (individual and groups).

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS