Sport and Exercise Nutrition PgDip/MSc

Program Overview

The Sport and Exercise Nutrition PgDip/MSc program at Ulster University is a postgraduate pathway for those interested in a career in sports nutrition. Accredited by the British Dietetic Association, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between diet, exercise, and sports performance, preparing graduates for careers as sports nutritionists, performance nutritionists, and other related roles. Delivered online, the program offers flexibility and blends theoretical knowledge with practical application through case studies and research projects.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Summary:

This program provides a postgraduate pathway for those interested in pursuing a career in the area of sport and exercise nutrition. It offers in-depth knowledge of the relationship between diet, exercise, and sports performance. The program is accredited by the British Dietetic Association (BDA) Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr), allowing graduates to work autonomously as sports nutritionists.

Objectives:

• Develop a strong understanding of the scientific principles underlying sports nutrition and exercise metabolism.
• Acquire skills to conduct research in the field of sports nutrition and critically appraise relevant literature.
• Gain practical experience in applying sports nutrition principles to real-world scenarios.

Unique Features:

• Delivered online, allowing for flexible study from anywhere.
• Accredited by the BDA, ensuring recognized qualifications in the field.
• Blends theoretical knowledge with practical application through case studies and research projects.

Outline

Program Structure:

• Full-time program (1 year): Comprises taught modules in semesters 1 and 2, and a research project in semester 3.
• Part-time program (2 years): Offers the same curriculum as the full-time program but with extended completion time.

Modules:

• Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism: Explores the biochemical basis of exercise metabolism and the role of nutrition in enhancing athletic performance.
• Nutritional Assessment: Covers principles and methods of nutritional assessment, including anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary approaches.
• Sport-Specific Nutrition Issues: Examines unique nutritional challenges faced by athletes in different sports and provides in-depth knowledge of relevant practices.
• Research Methods and Biostatistics for Food and Nutrition: Equips students with research skills, including experimental design, statistical analysis, and critical evaluation of published literature.
• Nutrition for Health and Disease Prevention: Focuses on the relationship between nutrition, health, and disease, promoting the role of good nutrition in maintaining health and preventing illness.
• Practical Sports Nutrition: Provides hands-on experience in applying sports nutrition principles to diverse athlete populations and optimizing their performance.
• Sport and Exercise Nutrition Research Project: Students conduct original research in the field and present findings in a journal manuscript format.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Essays, reports, seminar papers, presentations, dissertations, design projects, portfolios, journals, and group work.
• Examinations: Depending on the module, some assessments may be in the form of examinations.
• Research Project: Submitting a research proposal, conducting original research, and presenting findings in a manuscript and conference presentation format.

Assessment Criteria:

• Each module will have specific learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
• Students are expected to demonstrate their achievement of the learning outcomes through various assessment methods.
• Timely feedback is provided on all coursework assessments.
• The module pass mark is 40% for undergraduate courses and 50% for postgraduate courses.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Practical classes
• Online learning resources
• Independent study

Faculty:

Highly qualified and experienced academic staff with expertise in sports nutrition, exercise metabolism, nutrition science, and related fields.

Unique Teaching Approaches:

• Blended learning approach combining online resources with in-person sessions.
• Emphasis on practical application of knowledge through case studies, group work, and research projects.
• Access to specialist guest lecturers and industry professionals.

Careers

Career Options:

• Freelance sports nutritionist
• Performance nutritionist
• Sports scientist
• Nutrition consultant
• Health promotion specialist
• Research scientist

Opportunities:

• Work with individual athletes, sports teams, or organizations
• Set up private sports nutrition clinics
• Conduct research in the field of sports nutrition
• Engage in advocacy and education around sports nutrition

Professional Recognition:

• Graduates are eligible to register with the BDA Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register (SENr) upon completion of the program.
• The program offers scholarships and awards, including the 'Dairy Council NI Sports Nutrition Award' for the highest-achieving graduate.
• Mandatory costs include a £20 annual license for Nutritics software.
• The program is delivered online, allowing students to study from anywhere with an internet connection.

Disclaimer:

• The program is subject to annual review, and specific details may change.
The program offers a thorough understanding of sports nutrition principles, practical application, research skills, and professional recognition, preparing graduates for success in various career paths within the sports and exercise nutrition industry.