There is strong competition for the University of Ulster's 30 first-year places on the BSc (hons) human nutrition. There were 393 applicants in 1996 for this four-year course. In addition to school-leavers who apply through UCAS, the British central applications body, there is also some transfer provision (usually into year two) for students of relevant higher national diploma courses or courses in ITs in the Republic. This is at the discretion of the course committee.

For those lucky enough to secure a place on the course, there is a choice between two options leading to a BSc in human nutrition with a diploma in industrial studies or a BSc in human nutrition and dietetics with eligibility for state registration in dietetics. The decision on which option to take is made at the beginning of second year.

The common first year includes science foundation modules as well as an introduction to management and sociology. Elements of nutrition, biochemistry and statistics are taught in all years. Students carry out an individual research project in fourth year. The taught modules are almost the same for both course options. It is the placement which makes the difference. Dietetics students undertake six week's practical catering experience between second and third year and a 28-week clinical dietetics placement at an approved training hospital. Nutrition students undertake a 48-week placement in third year. This may be spent in the food industry, nutrition research or in health promotion.