Overview

In this degree, we focus on developing your skills in research, policy and practice in the combined fields of diet- and physical activity-related public health and wellbeing. This work is vital in addressing real issues of concern to policymakers and practitioners. Our programme was one of the first to recognise the need for specialisation in the three intertwined disciplines of nutrition, physical activity and public health.

Our programme helps you to critically examine key interactions at the interface of epidemiology, behaviour change and policy-relevant research in these connected fields. It will also help you develop important skills in designing and evaluating research and community interventions.

This MSc is designed for dieticians, physical activity, food and fitness specialists, and other health professionals who wish to gain a deeper understanding about the evidence around the role of nutrition and physical activity in public health, the factors that influence people's physical activity and eating behaviours, and how to develop and evaluate nutrition and physical activity interventions.

Graduates from other disciplines, who want to work towards a career in this area, are welcome to apply.

Take a look at these videos to find out more about our programme and hear from some of our students.

Programme structure

All units are compulsory and there are no formal examinations. Work is assessed through written assignments, presentations, written reports, infographics, or research proposals. During the final term, you will complete an original research investigation and dissertation (8,000 to 10,000 words) in the form of an academic paper for a scientific journal on an approved public health-based topic, which will incorporate nutrition or physical activity or a combination of the two.

Part-time students will be given guidance about which units to complete in each year of study.

Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content of our MSc in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health.

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant field, such as nutrition, sports science, biology, psychology, food science, kinesiology, dietetics, medicine, nursing, policy. Other academic backgrounds and relevant professional or voluntary experience (minimum 18 months) will also be considered.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

Go to admissions statement

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level E.

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Fees and funding

UK: full-time
£11,000 per year
UK: part-time (two years)
£5,500 per year
Overseas: full-time
£23,500 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding for 2023/24

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

This programme is designed for students who want to pursue careers in nutrition and physical activity-related research, public health policy, public health consultancy, public health advocacy and legislation, and in implementing programmes that promote health.

Employers of our graduates include:

  • the public sector (local authorities, county health departments, Public Health England, National Health Service),
  • universities and academia,
  • charities and non-profit organisations (such as Macmillan Cancer Support, public health agencies),
  • and the private sector (the food industry, corporate wellness organisations).

The programme also has a professional development focus and can enhance the practice and delivery of working professionals, such as dieticians, physiotherapists, nurses, kinesiologists, physical trainers or teachers. Some of our graduates continue their studies towards a PhD degree.