Clinical and Public Health Nutrition

The MSc in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the scientific principles and practical applications of nutrition in clinical and community settings. Designed for professionals and recent graduates seeking to advance their expertise, this programme combines theoretical knowledge with real-world practice to equip students with the skills necessary to address complex nutritional challenges in diverse populations. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will examine the role of dietary patterns, nutritional assessments, and interventions in managing health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and malnutrition. The programme emphasizes evidence-based approaches, integrating current research findings with practical skills essential for effective public health strategies and clinical practices. Students will engage in critical analysis of nutritional policies, evaluate the impact of socio-economic factors on dietary habits, and develop tailored nutritional intervention plans. The programme also offers opportunities for research, encouraging students to contribute to the evolving field of nutrition science. Taught by leading experts and supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources, the MSc prepares graduates for careers in clinical practice, public health policy, research, and education. The multidisciplinary approach ensures that students gain a holistic understanding of nutrition's role in health promotion and disease prevention. With a diverse student body and collaborations across health disciplines, the programme fosters an environment of innovation and professional development. Whether aiming to work in healthcare settings, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or academia, graduates will leave equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a meaningful impact on individual and public health through effective nutritional strategies.

The programme focuses on periods of the lifecycle when nutrition is particularly important; these include: acute illness, trauma, surgery or malignancy; and chronic conditions in which disease, nutrition and treatment interact. The aetiology, pathophysiology and epidemiology of obesity will be explored alongside all approaches currently being used in its treatment.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) comprising all taught modules is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate comprising four core modules (60 credits) is offered.

Core modules

• Fundamentals of Nutrition and Metabolism
• Disease-related Malnutrition
• Experimental Design and Research Methods
• Practical Nutritional Assessment
• Therapeutic Aspects of Clinical Nutrition
• Nutrition and Public Health
• Malnutrition in the Community
• Disease and Disordered Eating

Optional modules

There are no optional modules for this programme.

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000-15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of seminars, lectures, laboratory work, site visits and practicals. Assessment is through examination, presentations, essays, practical reports and the dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a biological science, medical or healthcare discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The University College London offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Clinical and Public Health Nutrition program. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding sources to support their studies, including scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. UCL provides several scholarships specifically designed to assist postgraduate students, such as the UCL Postgraduate Research Scholarships and the Millennium Scholarship, which offer financial support based on academic merit and financial need. Additionally, students may be eligible for external funding opportunities from government agencies, charitable foundations, and professional organizations related to health and nutrition fields.

International students should consider specific scholarships available for overseas applicants, which can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses. UCL also participates in government loan programs for domestic students, allowing them to access tuition fee loans and maintenance loans, which can be repaid after graduation when high earning potential is achieved. For those employed in relevant sectors, employer sponsorship or funding may be available, and students are advised to consult their employers regarding potential support for further education.

Furthermore, UCL offers guidance and resources through its Financial Support Office to help students identify and apply for appropriate funding. It is advisable to start the application process early, as many funding opportunities have strict deadlines and competitive selection criteria. Some students also consider part-time work opportunities on or near campus to supplement their income during their studies. Overall, UCL's comprehensive financial aid system aims to make postgraduate education accessible to a diverse range of students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic and career aspirations in clinical and public health nutrition.

The MSc in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in nutrition science, public health, and clinical practice. This program aims to address global challenges related to nutrition, including malnutrition, obesity, and diet-related non-communicable diseases. The curriculum integrates theoretical understanding with practical applications, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse settings such as healthcare, research, policy development, and community interventions. Students benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, learning from experienced faculty members who are experts in fields such as epidemiology, biochemistry, public health, and clinical medicine.

The program covers core topics including nutritional assessment, research methods, nutritional epidemiology, and the biochemical basis of nutrition. It also emphasizes the development of skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating public health interventions targeted at improving population nutrition. Students may have opportunities to engage in empirical research projects, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-world issues and contribute to the evidence base in nutrition science. UCL’s strong links with health and research institutions provide valuable networking opportunities and access to cutting-edge resources and facilities.

Graduates of the MSc in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition are prepared for careers in healthcare policy, clinical practice, nutrition consultancy, research, and academia. They may work with national health services, non-governmental organizations, international agencies, or in private consultancy roles. The program also provides a solid foundation for those considering further doctoral studies in nutrition or related disciplines. The coursework, combined with practical experiences and research opportunities, ensures students develop a holistic understanding of nutrition within a public health framework, enabling them to make impactful contributions to improving health outcomes globally.