Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences

Program Title: Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences MSc

Program Description:
The MSc in Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences at King's College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the complex interplay between nutrition, metabolism, and diabetes. This program is ideal for graduates seeking to develop a deep understanding of the biological, clinical, and social aspects of diabetes management and nutritional science, enabling them to contribute effectively to research, clinical practice, and policy development in these areas.

Throughout the course, students will explore the fundamental principles of human nutrition, metabolic processes, and the pathophysiology of diabetes. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge research findings with practical applications, covering topics such as insulin resistance, glucose metabolism, dietary interventions, obesity, cardiovascular risk factors, and the role of lifestyle in disease prevention and management. Students will engage in rigorous scientific training, including experimental design, data analysis, and critical appraisal of scientific literature.

The program also emphasizes the importance of personalized nutrition and innovative approaches to diabetes care, including emerging technologies and treatment strategies. Students will have opportunities to develop their practical skills through laboratory work, case studies, and research projects, often collaborating with leading experts and institutions in the field.

By the end of the programme, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in research, clinical practice, public health, or further academic study. They will possess advanced knowledge of nutritional science principles, disease mechanisms, and contemporary approaches to diabetes management. Additionally, the programme promotes transferable skills such as critical thinking, scientific communication, and problem-solving, which are essential for professional development in healthcare and scientific research.

The MSc in Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences is delivered by a world-renowned faculty with extensive expertise in metabolic and nutritional research. It offers a stimulating and supportive learning environment, combining lectures, seminars, coursework, and research projects. Graduates will leave equipped to contribute meaningfully to tackling the global challenges associated with diabetes and nutrition, advancing both scientific understanding and practical solutions for healthier lives.

Course study environment

Students work alongside staff researchers, supervised by two members of academic staff and overseen by the Divisional Postgraduate Research Co-ordinators. Students' progress is monitored closely and reported on every six months.

Postgraduate training

All staff undergo regular training in research supervision and each student is allocated a first and second supervisor. The College has a Graduate School that provides opportunities for students to broaden their horizons and acquire transferable skills. All PhD students are first enrolled on an MPhil and are expected to complete a transfer to PhD within the first year. Postgraduate tutors are in place to support and monitor PhD/ MD Res student progress and to ensure reports are signed off in a timely basis using a College based reporting system. Individual research groups organise journal clubs and peer review protocol development and data analysis plans. Clinical research fellows funded by the BRC/ NIHR are supported by a STEMC cluster training programme which includes advice on fellowship applications. There are weekly research seminar programmes organised by Diabetes & Nutritional Sciences Division as well as by the Biomedical Forum and a programme of lectures organised by the KCL/GSTTBRC with outstanding external lecturers. Students participate in an annual postgraduate research symposium and are encouraged to present their research at meetings of Diabetes UK, the Biochemical Society, the Physiological Society and the Nutrition Society. All students are regularly notified about skills development opportunities through a monthly Postgraduate Research Newsletter. There are also opportunities to participate in the European Nutrition Leadership Programme.

• A Diploma Magistra with high grades will be considered for programmes requiring a UK Master's degree.
• Short-listed applicants will be interviewed by at least two academics. Proposed research projects must be approved by the Head of Division and Research Degree Co-ordinator before an offer can be made.
• IELTS (Academic)
• TOEFL iBT
• A personal statement which outlines the candidate's motivation to undertake a postgraduate research degree and their relevant qualifications, skills and experience is required for all applications. Unless applying for an advertised studentship, candidates should also list, in order of preference, up to three supervisors with which they would like to study. We strongly advise candidates to approach prospective supervisors before applying, as this speeds up the application process.
• Full transcripts for all degrees you have undertaken are required. The transcript for each degree should list all modules taken and the grades achieved. Applicants who are still enrolled on a course should supply partial transcripts of the modules taken and grades achieved so far, as well as a list of the modules that are currently being taken and the date when results are expected.
• Please also list A-level subjects and the grades achieved, and provide details of any voluntary work or relevant experience.

Scholarships

• Graduate School international PGR student scholarships
• International student research funding
• The Professor Sir Richard Trainor PhD scholarships
• Professor Anthony Guest PhD Scholarship

The MSc in Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences at King's College London offers an in-depth exploration of the complex interactions between diet, nutrition, and the development and management of diabetes. The programme is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge of the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms underlying diabetes and nutritional health. It combines theoretical learning with practical skills, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches to nutrition and diabetes care. Students will study various aspects including human nutrition, metabolism, public health nutrition, and clinical management of diabetes, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, or policy development. The curriculum covers contemporary topics such as nutritional genomics, lipid metabolism, diabetes pathophysiology, and the role of nutrition in disease prevention. The programme benefits from innovative teaching methods, including seminars, workshops, and research projects, often collaborating with leading experts and institutions in the field. Graduates will gain critical analytical skills and comprehensive understanding necessary for advancing in clinical, research, or policy-making roles. The programme may also offer opportunities for placements or internships, providing real-world experience. Upon completion, students will be well-positioned to contribute to the scientific understanding and clinical management of diabetes and nutritional issues, supporting healthcare improvements and public health initiatives. Admissions criteria typically require a relevant undergraduate degree, such as in nutrition, biomedical sciences, or a related health discipline, along with strong academic performance. The MSc duration is generally one year full-time, with options for part-time study. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise or for recent graduates aspiring to specialize in this vital area of health sciences.