Physiology, Sports Science & Nutrition

Course overview

This degree will train individuals in the science of exercise and sports and nutritional science. By the end of the course, students should have a well rounded knowledge of nutrition as well as a special knowledge of sports nutrition. This will lead to possible employment in both fields: sports exercise and nutrition.

Course outline

This course builds on the level 3 Physiology & Sports Science and Sports Medicine courses. In year 4, students will study Nutrition and Sports Nutrition. Much of the course will be relevant to medical training as well as sports science.

Teaching

The first two terms will comprise ten compulsory two-week modules covering:

  • Introduction to nutrition and sports nutrition
  • Nutritional aspects of growth and development through the life cycle
  • Food, nutrients and DRVs
  • Digestion and absorption (with emphasis on relation to sport and physical activity)
  • Energy balance, substrate metabolism and body composition in sport and exercise
  • Dietary assessment techniques
  • Psychology of food choice and eating behaviour/ and exercise
  • Food policies
  • Nutritional and physical activity in populations
  • Epidemiology - uses and abuses
  • Nutritional strategies and problems in sport

These modules will consist of introductory lectures, practical sessions, self-directed learning, seminars and tutorials. Communication skills are an important component of the course.

Research

In parallel, with these modules students will carry out a research project throughout terms 1 and 2. Research may be related to sports nutrition or general nutrition. At least 14 hours per week should be devoted to this aspect of the course.

Students will be encouraged to carry out human research and to visit industry, sporting groups and other laboratories. The project will be presented at a research meeting of students and staff and submitted in written form by the end of term 2.

This degree will train individuals in the science of exercise and sports and nutritional science. By the end of the course, students should have a well rounded knowledge of nutrition as well as a special knowledge of sports nutrition. This will lead to possible employment in both fields: sports exercise and nutrition.