What will I learn on this module?
You will learn some of the fundamental principles in the field of human nutrition and dietetics such as the biochemistry of nutrients, the digestion, absorption, assimilation, and function in the human body as building blocks for growth and repair and as energy sources. The health effects of nutrient deficiencies and excesses and the contribution of diet and lifestyle to the establishment of disease will also be discussed.
You will also learn about energy requirements and energy balance, the control of bodyweight and calculations of body mass index; ideal body weight and individual nutritional requirements will be discussed in depth. Factors which influence dietary intake and barriers which are encountered when recommending dietary change will be discussed. You will also learn about the role of nutrition with regards to healthy ageing and be aware of the various roles that diet and nutrition can play in disease. This module will also introduce you to the use of dietary surveys and epidemiological studies, how they can be used to identify links between diet and disease and how this evidence is then used in nutritional guidance for the public and individuals.
You will learn about the application of methods of collecting, analysing and evaluating nutritional data with practical experience analysing dietary data using computer software as well as learning about the practice and theory of laboratory based methods to provide an understanding of their relationship with nutrition. Good working practice, the importance of professional standards and the application of professional conduct will also be covered.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes, IT sessions and independent learning. The lectures will provide the knowledge required for you to understand the theoretical and practical aspects of the specialist subjects that will enable you to put into practice these concepts and techniques during the laboratory sessions. You will work on these during hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.
Practical sessions will involve laboratory manipulations, data handling, calculations and the writing of practical reports. Formative feedback will be provided to you from these sessions.
Independent learning using the resources listed on the eLP site will support the material delivered during taught and practical sessions and will allow you to consolidate your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The module tutor will provide you with academic material to support taught sessions on the respective module sites using the eLP. Material to support lectures will be uploaded in advance of lectures and practicals and the module tutor will provide you with guidance about the module content. You will also have the opportunity to attend tutorials to discuss module content and receive guidance on the assessments.
In terms of wider university support, the library has a comprehensive portfolio of short courses, structured help, and leaflets to help you with issues such as, the English language, academic writing, basic mathematics, software programmes such as Microsoft Excel, statistics, critical thinking, laboratory report writing, and more general information such as “how to find a book or journal”, or “how to order an Inter-Library loan”. These can be accessed at the help desk in the library itself or online (www.northumbria.ac.uk/skillsplus).
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1.You will be able to explain the structure and function of food components in relation to human nutrition and human physiology and be able to apply and understand how dietary factors and lifestyles influence health using current UK dietary guidelines, computer software and reference data to calculate and assess the adequacy of diets whilst appreciating the limitations of such reference points/tools
2.You will appreciate the use and limitations of various methods of collecting, analysing and evaluating nutritional data
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1.You will appreciate the methods available for routine anthropometric measurement and their use and limitations in assessment of health status and develop safe laboratory practices during practical sessions
2.You will develop your analytical and data handling skills during the practical sessions and base your findings on the best available evidence and research.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
1. You will understand good working nutritional practices, appreciate the importance of professional nutrition standards and the application of professional conduct
How will I be assessed?
The assessment will include two components: a case study scenario report 2,500 words (60%) and a 2 hour exam (40%).
MLOs assessed for case study: KU2, IPSA1-2, PVA 1
MLOs assessed for report: KU1,2, IPSA 1,2, PVA1
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
‘Foundations of Nutrition’ is designed to provide you with an understanding of the fundamental requirements of human nutrition especially in the terms of UK recommended guidelines and the latest research relating to food and health. An awareness of the effect of nutrient deficiencies and excesses on health and an appreciation of the role of diet in various nutrition related diseases will be developed.
Through laboratory and IT based practical sessions you will develop analytical skills which will enable you to assess the adequacy of diets and nutritional status and knowledge gained through lectures and tutorials will support this analysis enabling you to provide dietary guidance.
You will also be provided with the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of professional conduct, good working practice and competency in nutritional assessment in a case study role play scenario.
Course info
Credits 40
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time
Department Applied Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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