Sport and Exercise Nutrition

The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme at Loughborough University offers students an in-depth understanding of the role of nutrition in supporting athletic performance, promoting health, and enhancing overall well-being. This course combines scientific principles from biology, physiology, and dietetics to provide comprehensive knowledge of how nutrition impacts the human body during physical activity and recovery. Students will explore a wide range of topics including human anatomy, exercise physiology, dietary assessment, nutrition strategies for different sports, and the management of sports-related health issues. The programme is designed to equip learners with practical skills in dietary planning, nutritional analysis, and evidence-based decision-making, preparing graduates for careers in sports nutrition consultancy, clinical practice, research, and sports coaching. It emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating theoretical understanding with practical applications through laboratory work, research projects, and placements. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and work alongside experienced academics and industry professionals, gaining valuable insights into current trends and innovations in sport and exercise nutrition. The programme also encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary teams in the sports, health, and fitness sectors. Upon completion, students will be qualified to support athletes and active individuals in optimizing their performance and health through tailored nutritional strategies. The course is ideal for those passionate about sports, exercise, and promoting healthy lifestyles, seeking to make a positive impact in the world of sports science and nutrition.

The Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme at Loughborough University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the science behind sports performance and nutritional strategies. Designed for students passionate about enhancing athletic performance through optimal nutrition, the programme integrates core principles from sports science, dietetics, and human physiology to equip graduates with the skills needed to work with athletes, sports teams, and health-conscious individuals.

Throughout the course, students will examine the fundamental aspects of human nutrition, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and hydration, and their specific roles in exercise and recovery. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the metabolic processes involved in energy production, muscle repair, and adaptation to training stimuli. Students will also learn how to develop personalized nutritional plans tailored to individual needs, taking into account factors such as age, gender, activity level, and medical history.

A key component of the programme is the study of nutrition assessment methods, allowing students to evaluate dietary intake and nutritional status accurately. They will also explore current research and evidence-based guidelines to stay abreast of advances in sports nutrition science. The course includes practical elements such as meal planning, dietary intervention strategies, and the use of nutritional supplements in sport.

Collaboration and research skills are fostered through projects and group work, encouraging students to critically analyze scientific literature and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. The programme also offers opportunities for placements and internships, providing valuable industry experience and professional networking opportunities.

Graduates of the Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme are well-prepared for careers in sports nutrition consultancy, clinical dietetics, research, and sports science support. They will be equipped with the expertise to promote healthy, active lifestyles and optimize athletic performance through targeted nutritional strategies. With a strong focus on innovation and practical application, this degree prepares students to become leaders in the evolving field of sports and exercise nutrition.

A minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant subject such as Sports Science, Nutrition, Physiology, Biology, or a related discipline. Applicants with an alternative academic background may be considered if they have relevant professional experience or qualifications in sport, exercise, or nutrition. Prior knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and nutrition is recommended to support successful study at postgraduate level. Proficiency in English language is required, with acceptable standards including an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component, or equivalent qualifications. Relevant work experience in sports settings, nutrition consultancy, or exercise physiology can enhance an applicant's profile but is not strictly mandatory. Personal statements should demonstrate motivation for studying Sport and Exercise Nutrition, along with relevant interests or career aspirations in areas like athletic performance, health promotion, or public health nutrition. Two references are usually required, with one ideally from an academic referee familiar with the applicant’s previous studies. Applicants may also be asked to attend an interview, which could be conducted remotely, to assess motivation and suitability for the programme. In some cases, applicants without the formal qualifications may be considered under accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL) procedures. The programme emphasizes current research and professional practice, requiring students to undertake independent study, group work, and practical assessments. Candidates should possess good communication skills, self-motivation, and an ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Overall, the entry requirements aim to ensure students are prepared for the demands of postgraduate study in a multidisciplinary environment that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application in sport and exercise nutrition.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Sport and Exercise Nutrition program at Loughborough University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. International and domestic students are encouraged to explore various funding routes, including scholarships, grants, tuition fee loans, and external sponsorships. Loughborough University provides several internal scholarships specifically aimed at students undertaking sports-related courses, which may cover partial or full tuition fees. These scholarships are competitive and often based on academic merit, sporting achievements, or financial need. Additionally, students can apply for government-funded loans where applicable, such as the Student Finance England, Student Finance Wales, or the Student Finance Northern Ireland, which assist in covering tuition fees and living expenses. International students are advised to seek scholarship opportunities from their home countries or from external organizations that support academic mobility and sporting excellence.

The university also participates in schemes that support student entrepreneurs and those involved in sports initiatives, offering bursaries or funding for specific projects. Students are encouraged to contact the Loughborough University Financial Aid Office for personalized advice on available funding options and application procedures. Furthermore, many students finance their studies through part-time employment either on-campus or off-campus, which also provides valuable professional experience related to their field of study. Some students may access sponsorship through sports organizations or industry partnerships linked to sports nutrition, helping to reduce the financial burden. It is advisable for prospective students to start planning their finances early by exploring all available funding sources and understanding the eligibility criteria and application deadlines. Overall, Loughborough University is committed to making higher education accessible and supports diverse funding pathways to ensure students can focus on their academic and sporting pursuits without undue financial stress.

Sport and Exercise Nutrition at Loughborough University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to explore the science behind athletic performance, dietetics, and human nutrition. The programme aims to develop students’ understanding of how nutrition influences athletic performance, recovery, and overall health, preparing graduates for careers in sports nutrition consultancy, health promotion, research, and support roles within sports and healthcare sectors. The course covers a broad range of topics, including human physiology, biochemistry, nutritional needs for different populations, and the application of nutrition principles in various exercise and sporting contexts. It emphasizes practical skills, critical analysis, and evidence-based approaches to developing nutritional strategies tailored to individual athletes or active individuals.

This programme is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories equipped with advanced analytical tools to study nutritional composition, metabolic responses, and performance outcomes. Students have opportunities for real-world experience through placements, research projects, and collaboration with sports teams and healthcare providers. The curriculum also incorporates modules on behavioural change, sports psychology, and the ethical considerations of nutrition advice, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals equipped to communicate effectively with athletes, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.

Loughborough University’s reputation for sports science and its extensive links with professional sports organizations enhance the programme’s industry relevance. The academic team comprises experts in nutrition, physiology, sports psychology, and performance analysis, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence. Graduates of the Sport and Exercise Nutrition programme often go on to work in sports clubs, national governing bodies, clinical settings, or undertake postgraduate research to further their careers.

The course offers various academic pathways, including options for research-focused study or professional development in public health and fitness industries. Students benefit from the university’s strong focus on employability, with dedicated careers support, networking events, and workshops tailored to the sports nutrition sector. Overall, the programme aims to produce competent, evidence-informed nutrition professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to athlete health, sports performance, and public health initiatives.