BSc(Hons) Nutritional Therapy Course
Validated by Middlesex University
To a large extent "we are what we eat," and it may be as well to understand the true significance of this quote in a rigorous scientific as well as human context. The degree programme provides a unique combination of knowledge, understanding and practical skills in relation to the manipulation and enhancement of nutrition, to encourage people toward the very best of health, which so often leads to a greater sense of well-being and overall 'feel-good' factor.
What do you need to start?
In common with most health science degrees you will need 'A' levels or equivalent qualifications, or experience in the Sciences, particularly in Biology and Chemistry (view start dates).
You can gain Accreditation of Prior and/or Experiential Learning (APEL) from a variety of sources against modules of the degree course. Prior degrees, your work experiences or some vocational training can be considered (click APEL button at left for more details)
Foundation courses in Chemistry and Human Biology are available if you do not have the requisite qualifications or level in the sciences. As many of our students are in the process of changing career then completing foundation studies is quite common. You can click on the 'Foundation Science Courses' button on the left to find out how to go about getting these.
How long does the full training take?
The degree course can be taken full time (two attendance days per week in term time) over three years, or part time in anything up to 12 years! Most part-time students anticipate completing their studies in 4-5 years. The structure of the full-time programme fits together like a lock and key. We help part-time students to develop the best study plan, taking into account how the programme is structured. View an example of a typical full time or part time programme,
Do I need to attend?
Yes, you will need to attend as the course is designated as an Attendance course. However, 45-60 days taught each year are accessible audio visually enabling you to study much of the course from home using modern media techniques. All students are registered on the course as ‘attendees’. Materials are invariably with UK flexible attendees the day following the lecture given to students attending the Centre and within a few days of overseas students. Flexible attendees receive a CD of the live lecture with all handouts and powerpoint presentations attached enabling them to work in a conducive environment at their home computer. All students take the same examination at the same time and submit coursework at the same time. The course is designed for attendance at the Centre and flexible attendees fit into that design. Private invigilation for examinations for overseas students and those at some distance from the Centre can be arranged subject to the agreement of the Centre. Such flexibility enables students around the UK and abroad to study with us. Currently we have students from across Europe and as far as Australia and India. Even students local to the Centre that have family or work commitments have this option open to them. The service also benefits regular attendees as we will automatically send you a CD recording if you suddenly find yourself unable to attend a particular lecture. Should you take the flexible attendee option then you would need to attend nine one-week blocks over the course of your training. This works out about once a term for full-time students and once or twice a year for part-time students. Click Feedback to find out what our students and graduates say about both modes of access to the programme.
Can I take a break from the course?
Unanticipated events happen from time to time necessitating a student to take a break in their studies. The beauty of a modular degree programme is that if you need to take a break you can, knowing that you can return to complete your studies when you are ready. Remember there is up to 12 years to complete the degree! You may need to refresh some aspects of the course if your break is extended for more than a year.
What happens if I leave the course?
Once you register with Middlesex University, all modules that you successfully complete are awarded 20 credits that are transferable to other relevant degree programmes, including courses at Middlesex University. If you successfully complete the first year of the programme and need to leave then you can apply for a Fallback Award from Middlesex University entitled a Certificate of Higher Education in Nutritional Science. This level of qualification could be useful in educational and industrial settings. If you have another health care qualification that enables you to register with a professional body then you can be insured to use the internal CNE Award ‘Dietary Analysts’ Certificate as an adjunct to your existing profession.
If you leave after completing the second year of the programme then you can apply for a Fallback Award from Middlesex University entitled a Diploma of Higher Education in Nutritional Science. This is a high level qualification and should more readily facilitate non-clinical career opportunities.
Neither Fallback Award leads to registration with the Professional Body BANT (British Association for Nutritional Therapy). You will need to complete the requirements of the degree programme for professional registration. Either a Certificate or Diploma in Nutritional Science would also enable industrial and educational job opportunities. This outcome is quite attractive for individuals that want to work in the nutrition industry but not as practitioners. You may change your mode of study or interrupt your studies for a period of time without adverse effect on the grade or credit value of any completed assignment.
What are the dates for 2009? Find out dates for all our courses here.
How much does it cost? Find out the costs per year, for the whole Degree, and ways to pay.
Can I access any financial support for the course? Yes. More details
