OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY

Q & A

DIETETICS 

(PRE-REGISTRATION)

MSC or PgDip

Question: When are the applications for entry to September 2025 intake are going to open?

Answer: We are now accepting applications for the September 2025 entry - apply here

Question: In my first degree, what components would signify "sufficient emphasis on human physiology and biochemistry and an understanding of the principles of nutritional sciences"?

Answer: Your upper second (2:1) or above undergraduate science degree (e.g., BSc, BSc (Hons) or L6 equivalent) must contain at least 30 credits in total, in Biochemistry and Physiology/Anatomy at Level 4 or above, with a minimum of 10 credits in each subject. Additionally, we are looking for evidence of Level 4 or above Nutrition knowledge through the syllabus, learning outcomes, or assessments of nutrition or non-nutrition-focused modules or through a relevant interest of yours in Nutrition through a research or independent study project.

Note: Biochemistry-related modules should cover cell structure and function and energy metabolism at an acceptable level. For human physiology, the physiological processes at the organs and systems level should be discussed with a particular focus on the human body’s homeostasis, as well as the nervous, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, endocrine, and immune systems. 

Question: What alternative qualifications would you consider?

Answer:  If your science degree is of a classification other than an upper second (2:1) or above or if it does not include the required depth and breadth of subject-specific knowledge, you may still be invited to a pre-offer interview as long as you hold:

or

or


Question: Do you offer "top-ups" to help me meet the entry requirements?

Answer: We offer short courses and singular modules to help you meet the course's entry requirements if you need an alternative entry route. Examples of such full-semester modules and short courses offered at Oxford Brookes University include those in the table below.

This is not an exhaustive list of modules, just an indication of what is offered at Oxford Brookes University. You have the option to complete the required additional modules at any university. Please share the details with us at dietetics@brookes.ac.uk before enrolling to ensure your choice meets our entry requirements.

Regarding the short courses, upon successfully completing one or both of them and enrolling in our MSc Dietetics (Pre-Registration) programme, the fee(s) for the short course(s) will be deducted from your tuition fees. For further information please contact us at dietetics@brookes.ac.uk.

Question: Are there any essential or desirable prior experience requirements to enter the course?

Answer:  Programs in dietetics often value applicants with relevant experience in healthcare or nutrition-related fields. While traditional shadowing might not be as accessible post-pandemic, volunteering or internships in hospitals, clinics, or community health programs remain valuable. 

Even discussing the profession with a dietitian to gain insights and show a clear understanding of the field can significantly boost your application. Adaptability and finding alternative ways to gain knowledge and experience in the field will definitely stand out!

Question: What is the difference between the MSc Dietetics (pre-registration) and the PGDip Dietetics (pre-registration)?

Answer

Both qualifications make you eligible for HCPC registration, pending programme validation and accreditation.

Please note: Where a student wishes to exit with a PG Diploma award, the standard practice is to reduce the total cost of the course by £1,000. 

Question: What is the status of the programme regarding the The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) approval and the British Dietetic Association (BDA) accreditation?

AnswerWe are proud to announce that the HCPC’s Education and Training Committee has approved our programme, marking a significant milestone that ensures our graduates are eligible to register as Registered Dietitians (RDs). Furthermore, as of 7th August 2024, the programme has also been accredited by the BDA.

Question: Is there NHS funding for this course? 

Answer:  Financial support is available via the NHS Financial Support. Full information is on the government website

Question: Is there any opportunity to do this course as a dietetic apprenticeship? 

Answer:  There is no option for apprenticeship in this Master of Science (pre-registration) Dietetics. However, we will review this in the future.

Question: Does the course allow for accreditation to Prior Credited / Experience Learning (APCL / APEL)? If so, is there a fee waiver for APCL / APEL?

Answer: Accreditation to Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) is not an option in this course. 

Accreditation to Prior Creditied Learning (APCL) is possible. Note that any APCL needs to be at Level 7 (MSc, PGDip etc) and completion and review of an APCL application should occur only after being offered a place in the course, as the process is time consuming for the applicant and the university.

In case of APCL, there is no fee waiver for the APCL credits, as the fees are paid at the course level and not module-specific level.

Please be kindly informed that at PG level (L7), the maximum a student can APCL in is 2/3 of the required credit for the award (6 x 20 credit modules), and they must study at Brookes for at least one semester.