Human Nutrition and Dietetics Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Dietitians translate the science of nutrition into everyday information about food and advise people on their food and nutrition choices.

They are qualified, regulated health professionals who assess, diagnose and treat dietary and nutritional problems. Their aim is to promote good health and prevent disease in individuals and communities.

This course offers an integrated study of the science of nutrition and dietetics and its application to health, wellbeing and the management of disease. You’ll have access to hands-on simulation experiences within our specialist facilities, including labs, food science kitchens, and our Interprofessional Simulation Centre (ISC).

Simulation-based learning gets you career ready. You’ll practise patient consultations, clinical decision-making and interprofessional communication in a safe, supportive environment.

We combine biological and social sciences to offer a whole-systems understanding of the factors influencing diet and health. You’ll develop the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required for practice as a Registered Dietitian.

The core subjects include:

* human physiology

* essentials of nutritional science

* immunology and microbiology

* food science

* therapeutic dietetics

* public health nutrition.

The curriculum emphasises evidence-based and research-informed emerging practice. You’ll be able to assess nutritional needs, plan and implement dietary interventions, and evaluate outcomes across individual, group, and community settings.

The course also integrates academic study with professional practice through a series of practice placements in hospitals, community settings, and public health organisations across Scotland. These placements are designed to ensure you develop practical competence, confidence and readiness for professional registration.

Our students are consistently recognised as being among the best prepared for placement, as evidenced by feedback from practice educators and prospective employers. When you graduate, you will be ready to contribute to improving health and wellbeing through nutrition and dietary management within the NHS and across wider public health, research, and international settings.

The BSc (Hons) Human Nutrition and Dietetics also has a strong focus on sustainability, reflecting the growing importance of environmental and societal considerations within dietetics and public health.

Why choose this course?

* GCU has over 100 years of teaching experience in nutrition and food.

* Build real clinical experience through three placements, completing the 1,000 practice hours required for Dietitian registration, with opportunities across NHS settings.

* You’ll learn from experienced practitioners and researchers, with guest lecturers in specialised fields.

* Benefit from access to specialist facilities and simulated learning environments.

Careers

Most of our graduates tend to start their career securing roles within the NHS across the UK, typically as Band 5 Registered Dietitians. They may also work in the private sector or in research.

Graduates can also work internationally following application to the host country’s accreditation processes. Previous graduates have gone on to work in Ireland, Greece, Spain and the USA.