Learn about the creation of healthier food products and gain valuable industry experience with a year-long training placement. The role of nutritionists within the food industry is increasingly important, as consumers grow more aware of the importance of healthy eating. Our BSc Nutrition and Food Science will help you to understand the processes of food production and how these can be amended to create healthier products. The Department has strong links with industry, which means that you can choose from a wide range of training placements at renowned companies and organisations. Additionally, the course is accredited by the Association for Nutrition and you can become a registered nutritionist after graduation. The University of Reading is a world authority on human nutrition, food chemistry, chemical engineering, microbiology and food law. Our staff are actively engaged in world-class research and will tailor their teaching to reflect changing trends and emerging technologies within the sector. During the first year you will study the fundamentals of human nutrition, food chemistry, food microbiology, cell biology, genetics, human physiology and psychology. You will then be able to build upon this knowledge by exploring areas such as public health nutrition, food choice and regulation, and the development of new products.

Food is Europe's largest and most buoyant industry, and nutritionists with food science training work at the forefront of product development and package design. As a graduate of this course, you can become a registered nutritionist. You can work within the food industry and related sectors, for companies such as Kraft, Mars, Marks & Spencer, and GlaxoSmithKline. Alternatively you could use your degree for a career in nutrition education and promotion, or work for a government department concerned with public health. Additionally, you may choose to move into other areas, such as teaching, accountancy and environmental health. This degree can also be a stepping stone for an MSc or PhD in the area of food and health.