Course summary
Our MSc/PGDip in Applied Sport and Exercise Nutrition is designed for students who want to work with a range of people to improve their health, fitness or sporting performance. We encourage applications from graduates with a background in sport and exercise science or human nutrition. Nutrition has profound effects on both human health and athletic performance. So we have based this course on the latest scientific research and contemporary practice. Our staff come from a wide range of sporting and nutrition backgrounds. They conduct first-class research and bring it to the classroom and some are actively involved in coaching. To provide you with subject specialist knowledge we also invite guest speakers from:
- industry
- other universities
- research organisations.
Modules
Fundamentals of Human Nutrition (20 credits) This module provides a comprehensive overview of the different nutrients required by humans throughout the life cycle and their sources in food in the UK and worldwide. It also critically evaluates methods used to assess nutrient intake at an individual and population level. The relationship between lifestyle and body composition will also be covered. Exercise Physiology (20 credits) This module examines the fundamental concepts in exercise physiology. Content includes acute and chronic adaptations to exercise, biochemistry and function of skeletal muscle, principles of exercise training, physiology of special populations (eg children, women, elderly and elite athletes) and immune function. Teaching methods include seminars and laboratory sessions. Sport and Exercise Nutrition in Practice (20 credits) This module draws upon expert experience from individuals who are involved in providing nutritional support for people who participate in sport and exercise. Where appropriate, the module will use the expertise of guest lecturers in addition to the core teaching team. Strategies that focus on selected techniques known to enhance healthy dietary strategies will be covered. Finally, the use of case studies and practical experience will link the theoretical and applied aspects of the course to provide you with the skills necessary to meet the challenges faced by contemporary sport and exercise nutritionists. Research Methods (20 credits) This module provides a foundation and training in fundamental research methods, from literature searching, experimental planning and design to data analysis and presentation. Assessment is by coursework only. Nutrition, Physical Activity and Health (20 credits) This module examines the relationships between nutrition, physical activity and health outcomes in humans. In particular, the influence of diet and physical activity on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity will be considered along with counselling and goal-setting for diet, nutrition and exercise. Applied Practice in Sport, Exercise and Nutrition (20 credits) This module provides you with opportunities to reflect on your professional practice and to consider the legal and ethical boundaries when working in sport and exercise nutrition settings. You will also gain training to assist in working with clients with special needs (eg young or elderly populations, disabled athletes, vegetarian athletes) or who come from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds that do not otherwise fit the 'standard' model of sport and exercise nutrition. Applied Techniques in Sport and Exercise Nutrition (20 credits) This module consists of a practical component using state-of-the-art laboratory techniques including portable calorimetry, densitometry, haematology and urine analysis. This module includes comprehensive testing on both invited athletes and classmates. In addition to the practical element, a main focus of the module is placed on data interpretation and presentation to aid report writing for scientific publications and also athlete and coach feedback. Enrolment on the module also entitles you to complementary registration for the highly sought after International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) Level 1 qualification (on completion of the required additional practical and theoretical components). Research Project (60 credits) This consists of an intensive period of research into a selected topic in sport and exercise nutrition. You will work closely with an appointed supervisor to establish a project topic and identify an appropriate intervention. The research project will be primarily assessed by dissertation submission.
Assessment method
We expect that you will have a strong understanding of either human nutrition or sport and exercise science. In the first semester, depending on your background you will take either the Human Nutrition or Exercise Physiology module. This enables you to progress to advanced-level classes. Semester one emphasises theoretical and research issues. In Semester two you will apply the theoretical underpinnings in applied settings (field and laboratory settings). For your research project (MSc only), you will complete a substantial piece of independent research. This will incorporate your theoretical and applied knowledge from the taught section of the course. For an MSc award you need to gain 180 level 7 credits. For a PGDip you need to gain 120 level 7 credits. This involves successfully completing either the Human Nutrition or Exercise Physiology module and all the remaining modules. You do not need to complete the Research Project.
How to apply
International applicants
For applicants whose first language is not English, an Academic IELTS score of 6.5 (with 6.5 in Reading and Writing, and 6.0 in Listening and Speaking) is required. Please also see the University's standard English language requirements.
Entry requirements
To successfully complete this postgraduate course, you are usually expected to have (or be about to attain) at least a first or upper second class honours degree in a related scientific subject from a recognised institution of higher education. Applicants with a lower second class award may be accepted if they can provide a transcript to show that they performed near to the upper second class level. If you do not have these academic qualifications, you could still be offered a place on this course if you can show evidence of the potential to succeed based on professional and/or related experiences.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9750 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9750 | Year 1 |
| EU | £17350 | Year 1 |
| International | £17350 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Please note tuition fees may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students.
Provider information
Oxford Brookes University
Gipsy Lane
Headington
Oxford
OX3 0BP