Program Overview

Human Nutrition and Dietetics (Joint Degree)

The Human Nutrition and Dietetics program is a joint degree offered by Trinity College Dublin and Technological University Dublin. This four-year, full-time program provides an integrated education on the science of nutrition and the practice of dietetics, with a focus on their application to human health and well-being.

Overview

The program is designed for students with a strong interest in science subjects and the relationship between food and health. Students should also be willing to work in a hospital environment and have good interpersonal skills. The degree is awarded jointly by Trinity College Dublin and Technological University Dublin and is approved by CORU, the regulator for the health and social care professions in Ireland.

Course Details

• Awards: B.Sc. (Hum. Nut. And Diet.) Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8)
• CAO Information: CAO Points 555 (2024), CAO Code TU870
• Number of Places: 30 Places

Admission Requirements

In addition to standard CAO applications, mature entry applications are considered. Further details are available from the Admissions Office, Technological University Dublin.

• English Language Requirements: All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Structure

The program consists of four years of full-time study, with students registered in both Trinity College Dublin and Technological University Dublin. The course provides an integrated education on the science of nutrition and the practice of dietetics, with a focus on their application to human health and well-being.

First and Second Years

During the first and second years, students develop a broad understanding of the relevant pre-clinical subjects, including:

• Clinical chemistry
• Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology/immunology
• Food studies
• Nutrition science
• Epidemiology
• Nutrition through the life cycle
• Communications
• Behavioural science
• Research methodology and statistics
• Professional practice studies

Third and Fourth Years

In the third and fourth years, foundation subjects are strengthened, specialist subjects are introduced, and the degree subjects are studied to an advanced level. Students undertake a three-month research project in the fourth year, with the option to carry this out in a partner European or American university.

Assessment

End-of-year written examinations, together with continuous assessment of coursework, practical work, and assignments, make up the assessment process. Oral examinations are conducted in some subjects, and continuous assessments are carried out during clinical placements. Students also write a thesis to report the results of their final-year research project and present and defend it in an oral presentation.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are well-placed to find work as dietitians in hospitals or primary care, or in food companies, clinical nutrition product sales, and marketing. Some graduates have also chosen academic careers in research or education.

Graduate Skills

The program enables the acquisition of scientific knowledge relevant to human nutrition and dietetics, the development of analytical and critical thinking, and the integration of theory into practice. It also develops the ability of students to work and communicate with others in an ethical and adaptable manner, and to foster their skills in research and development.