The Institute for Optimum Nutrition
Introduction
Like other Higher Education courses, the NTDC requires prior learning up to at least ‘A’ Level standard. You will need ‘A’ levels or equivalent in both biology and chemistry. If you do not have these qualifications, but are keen to study at ION, we offer specially tailored Science Access courses, which guarantee a place on the NTDC when completed successfully. The Science Access courses consist of three modules in Chemistry, Biology and Human Anatomy and Physiology. You can take just one or two of the modules if you are lacking only part of the entry requirement.
The courses concentrate on aspects of these subjects that are particularly relevant to nutrition. Students on the Science Access courses are well supported and have a very high pass rate, with nearly all progressing to the DipION.
1. Full Science Access Course (FSAC) – for those with little or no knowledge of science, there is a choice of six or nine months’ study.
This comprises nine weekends, starting either in October, with a month between each course weekend, or in January, with two or three weeks between each course weekend, so that both courses finish in June. It is divided into three modules: Chemistry, Biology, and Anatomy and Physiology. If you require only one or two of these three modules, then you can complete those modules separately. Each weekend consists of a two-hour seminar on the Friday evening (except the first weekend), and six-hour lectures on both the Saturday and the Sunday. All science access lectures and seminars take place in Richmond.
Textbooks and course notes are provided, and homework is allocated each month, usually consisting of sets of questions. There is a two-hour examination at the end of each module, and in each of the Biology and the Anatomy and Physiology modules a course work essay counts for 20% of the examination in that module.
2. Accelerated Science Access Course (ASAC) – for those with little or no scientific knowledge, and keen to work hard every weekend over the summer months in order to complete the course in three months rather than nine.
This course follows the same syllabus as the Full Science Access Course, but runs on nine consecutive weekends throughout the summer, from June to September. This course is designed for students who apply later in the year, and wish to begin the NTDC in the same year. However, due to the timescale, it is more intensive and requires dedication. It is not a straightforward option for those with full time jobs or young children, although it is certainly possible.
Register interest in our Nutrition Courses
If you are interested in one of our Nutrition Courses and would like to be sent one of our full colour information packs, details of available open days and an application form then simply visit our register interest page and fill out our online form
* General Disclaimer - Information and advice provided by The Institute for Optimum Nutrition is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Anyone suffering from a condition that requires medical attention or who has symptoms that concern them, should consult a qualified medical practitioner. ION and its staff shall not be held responsible for any claims relating to illness or ailments that are deemed to have arisen as a consequence of reading any part, or all of the content provided on this website. The content is provided for general use and may be unsuitable for people suffering from certain conditions, diagnosed or otherwise.
The Institute for Optimum Nutrition is an independent educational charity, registered company number 2724405, registered charity number 1013084.
Top