BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Nutrition
Explore a degree that blends scientific insight with practical application, preparing you to optimise performance, health and wellbeing for athletes and active individuals.
Programme Overview
The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Nutrition provides a thorough grounding in the biological, physiological and psychological factors that influence nutrition for sport. Students develop a critical understanding of how nutrients affect energy metabolism, recovery, body composition and injury prevention. The course balances classroombased theory with laboratory work, field assessments and realworld placements.
Key features include:
- Integration of nutrition science with exercise physiology.
- Handson laboratory techniques in biochemistry and metabolism.
- Evidencebased practice through critical appraisal of scientific literature.
- Opportunities to work with university sport teams and local clubs.
- Professional development modules covering communication, ethics and entrepreneurship.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 Foundations
Students build a solid base in biology, chemistry and anatomy, alongside introductions to sport science and nutrition fundamentals.
- Human Biology & Physiology
- Principles of Nutrition
- Biochemistry for Life Sciences
- Introduction to Exercise Physiology
- Research Methods and Statistics
Year 2 Applied Knowledge
The second year deepens knowledge of macronutrient and micronutrient roles, with a focus on sport-specific applications.
- Energy Metabolism in Exercise
- Sport Nutrition for Endurance and Power Sports
- Hydration and Thermoregulation
- Nutrition Assessment and Planning
- Practical Laboratory Skills
- Elective: Food Science, Public Health Nutrition or Sports Psychology
Year 3 Specialisation and Professional Experience
The final year centres on independent research, advanced topics and a placement that gives students realworld exposure.
- Advanced Topics in Sports Nutrition
- Nutrition for Special Populations (e.g., youth, seniors, disabled athletes)
- Performance Enhancement Strategies
- Ethics and Legal Aspects in Sport Nutrition
- Capstone Research Project (honours dissertation)
- Industry Placement (minimum 8 weeks)
Career Opportunities
Graduates leave the programme equipped to work in a wide range of settings where nutrition and performance intersect.
Typical Roles
- Sports Nutritionist for professional or collegiate teams
- Performance Coach in elite training centres
- Clinical Dietitian with a focus on active populations
- Research Scientist in academia or private sportscience firms
- Product Development Specialist for sports nutrition brands
- Health & Wellness Consultant for corporate or community programmes
Professional Accreditation
The degree aligns with the requirements of the British Dietetic Association (BDA) and the Association for Nutrition (AfN). Graduates may progress onto a masters in dietetics or nutrition for further registration as a qualified dietitian.
Salary Expectations
Starting salaries typically range from 22,000 to 30,000 in the UK, rising to 45,00060,000 for experienced sport nutritionists in elite sport or commercial sectors.
Admissions Requirements
We welcome applicants with a genuine passion for sport, health and science.
- UK: Alevels (or equivalent) with at least two science subjects, preferably Biology or Chemistry. Typical offers: ABBBBB.
- International: Equivalent qualifications with a minimum of 120 UCAS points.
- English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall (no component lower than 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 90.
- Personal statement demonstrating interest in sport nutrition and evidence of relevant experience (e.g., coaching, volunteering).
Applicants may also be considered on the basis of a relevant BTEC or foundation degree, provided they meet the overall academic threshold.
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