Nutrition and Genetics MSc

St Mary's University, Twickenham

The MSc in Nutrition and Genetics aims to educate students in molecular biology principles that explain the interactions between human DNA and nutrition.

Why study Nutrition and Genetics?

The degree provides students with the knowledge and understanding of the progress, advantages and limitations of personalised nutrition. Finally, the programme will provide students with the necessary practical skills associated with molecular nutrition techniques.

NHS England states that “the shift to personalised medicine is already underway” and the NHS National Genetics and Genomics Education Centre has developed specific learning outcomes that need to be achieved by currently practising and future dietitians.

Freelance dietitians and nutritionists already feel the need to include elements of genetics and personalised nutrition in their consultations. An extensive market analysis on consumer trends (DataMonitor) showed that one of the main food-consumer “mega” trends is that people of all ages are more proactively addressing their health in a more personalised manner. The UK is one of the leading countries in consumer rates who consider the idea of using genetics in nutritional advice.

Why St Mary's?

St Mary’s University, Twickenham is the first and only university in the UK that offers a degree in Nutrition and Genetics. Teaching staff at St Mary’s have great experience teaching Nutrition and they also conduct research in the field of Nutrition and Genetics.

The degree offers the opportunity for students to carry out their Research Project at the University of Navarra (Pamplona, Spain) as part of the Erasmus exchange programme.

Assessment methods

The assessment strategy has been designed to not only measure student learning but to also facilitate student learning. Assessments at postgraduate level are designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate critical analysis, deep and insightful thought and the application of knowledge.

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Nutrition and Genetics will have gained an expertise in incorporating elements of genetic profiling in nutritional and dietary assessments and regimes. Also, graduates of this programme will be in a unique position to work for (or with) companies that offer genotyping services; such companies are becoming increasingly popular, creating the need for such expertise.

Finally, the specific degree is the ideal platform for a career in research considering that graduates will be in the advantageous position to combine two distinct scientific disciplines (Nutrition and Genetics).