Fundamentals of Human Nutrition
Credit bearing module
Key facts
Course code
NUTR7001
Start dates
September 2024
Application deadline
20 August (for a September start)
Location
Academic level
7
Academic credits
20
This course is not available to students classed as International for fees purposes.
Overview
This module will help you understand the basic principles of biochemistry and physiology and why they are essential in the study of nutrition. For this reason, the underlying biochemistry and physiology form the backbone of this module. The main emphasis is on nutrients required by humans, their sources in food in the UK and worldwide. Other aspects covered include the critical assessment of dietary reference values and nutrient intake.
The aims of the module are to:
- provide a detailed examination of the different nutrients required by humans and their sources in food in the UK and worldwide
- critically evaluate methods used to assess nutrient intake at an individual and population level
- understand the relationship between lifestyle and body composition.
How to apply
Terms and Conditions of Enrolment
When you accept our offer, you agree to the Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. You should therefore read those conditions before accepting the offer.
Application process
Tuition fees
Questions about fees?
Contact Student Finance on:
Tuition fees
Fees quoted are for the first year only. If you are studying a course that lasts longer than one year your fees will increase each year.
How and when to pay
Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.
- For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
- For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page
Financial support and scholarships
Additional costs
Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.
Learning and assessment
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Understand comprehensively the physiological functions of the body including the cardiovascular, neuro-endocrine, musculoskeletal and haematological systems, immunity and thermoregulation, and fluid and electrolyte balance.
- Describe and communicate effectively what nutrients consist of and understand how foods, nutrients and non-nutrients are digested, absorbed, metabolised and stored in the body.
- Exhibit a critical understanding of the biochemical function of nutrients (including alcohol) and non-nutrients and their distribution in food systems.
- Critically evaluate energy balance and calculate energy requirements using indirect calorimetry and other methods.
- Think logically and analytically with regard to nutrient requirements, food types and nutritional data in order to improve human health.
Learning and teaching
This module is presented in the form of one 3-hour session per week. Class contact utilises a number of teaching and learning techniques embedded within a series of lectures and practicals. There is a strong emphasis on student-centred learning; class contact account for 36 hours and students are therefore expected to contribute a minimum of 72 hours self-managed private study (for example, background reading, further reading, research).
Assessment
Assessment methods used on this course
Assessment will be in the form of two (2) pieces of coursework:
- a set-exercise comprising a timed class test of knowledge-based questions on the biochemical, metabolic and nutritional aspects taught within the module
- a written individual assignment comprising a scientific report based on the module practical on substrate utilisation under various diets.
Programme changes:
On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been
published on the website. For more information, please visit our
changes to programmes page.