Course Catalogue

The overall aim of this MSc programme is to develop the student's theoretical and practical skills in sport nutrition in an innovative and challenging environment providing the students with all of the necessary skills to embark upon a career in sport nutrition. Specifically, the programme aims to develop graduates that are able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgments in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences. This course aims to develop qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment in roles requiring initiative and personal responsibility, decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations, and independent learning-ability required for continuing professional development. Since the programme is written in alignment with the competencies set out by the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr),the course aims to allow students to apply for graduate entry onto this register.

Lectures, practicals, tutorial support, site visits, problem based learning, essay, laboratory reports, case study, oral presentations, statistical reports, short answer exams, practical oral exams, viva, dissertation. Production of the final research product is supported by the Research Project module and through individual tutorial guidance. Consequently, the research process is active throughout the academic cycle. Throughout the programme an appropriate mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorial support, and practical workshops encourages a critical, reflective engagement with a range of fundamental and applied topics. These teaching and learning processes are underpinned by the research standing and passion of the staff. All staff are members of the Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences.

Work-related learning will be a key aspect of this degree and will be built into most modules. All Module Leaders will have significant experience in working in sport nutrition. Moreover, industry experts will be brought in to give guest lectures on highly specialised topics. Site visits will be included, such as visits to supplement manufacturers and sporting organisations. However, the major work-based learning will occur in Semester 2 when the students will complete a work placement in an appropriate sport setting. This module will build upon the work-related skills taught in the applied nutrition module in Semester 1 and give the students the chance to practise these skills in a real working context. The placement will be supervised by a highly experienced academic practitioner and the student will also receive on-site supervision through the placement provider. All students will also gain training in assessing body composition and will be given the opportunity to sit the ISAK exam to gain professional accreditation in this technique. Placements have been secured with various sports organisations.