The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Dietetics & Nutrition is a research-intensive doctoral programme designed to advance knowledge in clinical nutrition, dietetic practice, and public health nutrition.
The programme focuses on the role of nutrition in disease prevention, dietary management, and health promotion. Scholars engage in advanced research exploring nutritional interventions, therapeutic diets, and evidence-based dietary guidelines for diverse populations.
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in clinical settings, academia, healthcare organisations, research institutions, and public health agencies.
PhD in Dietetics & Nutrition scholars will be able to:
PA1 Conduct original research in dietetics and clinical nutrition.
PA2 Analyse the relationship between diet, health, and disease management.
PA3 Design and implement therapeutic nutrition interventions.
PA4 Apply evidence-based dietary practices in clinical and community settings.
PA5 Uphold ethical standards in nutrition and dietetic practice.
Knowledge
1 Demonstrate advanced understanding of human nutrition, metabolism, and diet therapy.
2 Critically evaluate clinical nutrition practices and dietary interventions.
3 Understand nutritional requirements across different life stages and medical conditions.
4 Apply research methodologies in dietetics and nutrition science.
Skills
1 Conduct independent research in dietetics and health sciences.
2 Analyse dietary data and clinical nutrition outcomes.
3 Develop personalised and population-based nutrition plans.
4 Communicate research findings effectively to clinical and academic audiences.
Competencies
1 Demonstrate leadership in clinical nutrition and dietetic research.
2 Manage complex healthcare and nutrition-related research projects.
3 Contribute to advancements in dietary guidelines and public health nutrition.
4 Present and defend research findings in professional and academic settings.
The PhD in Dietetics & Nutrition is designed to develop advanced research and clinical understanding through structured coursework and independent investigation.
Scholars are required to select a research topic, conduct a comprehensive literature review, apply clinical and scientific methodologies, and produce a doctoral thesis of approximately 60,000–80,000 words.
The programme typically consists of 30–40% coursework and 60–70% research, with a final viva (oral defense) required for successful completion.
Assessment includes coursework, research projects, thesis submission, and viva defense.
The doctoral thesis must demonstrate originality, clinical relevance, and a significant contribution to dietetics and nutrition science.
Evaluation structure:
Dissertation Report – ⅔
Dissertation Defense – ⅙
Coursework / Publications – ⅙
An interim Master of Philosophy (MPhil) may be awarded upon successful completion of initial research stages and coursework, subject to institutional policies.
Ages 21 – 35
Ages 36 – 60
Ages 60+
- Clinical Dietitian
- Nutrition Consultant
- Public Health Nutrition Specialist
- Dietetics Researcher
- Academic Lecturer / Professor
- Healthcare Nutrition Advisor
Milestone 1:Research Foundation & Proposal Development |
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| DIT 101: Advanced Clinical Nutrition & Diet Therapy | ||
| DIT 102: Research Methods & Ethics in Dietetics | ||
| RES 101: Research Proposal Development | ||
Milestone 2:Clinical & Public Health Nutrition Research |
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| DIT 201: Nutritional Epidemiology & Data Analysis | ||
| DIT 202: Therapeutic Diet Planning & Interventions | ||
| RES 102: Academic Publications | ||
Milestone 3:Thesis Completion & Defense |
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| DIT 301: Data Interpretation & Findings | ||
| DIT 302: Thesis Writing & Structuring | ||
| RES 103: Dissertation Submission & Viva | ||
Programmes are subject to periodic review. Modifications may be made to align with advancements in clinical nutrition, dietetics practice, and public health standards.
For more details or admissions contact now!
Andrew Barrow
Head of Admission Department