Testimonials- what previous students think about the course

Katie Adolphus

As an undergraduate I studied Physiology at Bristol University. I studied this MSc to help  me focus my broad scientific background . It provided me with extensive training and experience to pursue a career in research and develop my own specific research interests and tailor my assignments to these. As a result, I have now obtained Research Council Award for 3 year PhD Studentship at the University of Leeds investigating the effects of breakfast  in thinking and learning in children .

During the course I was helped with valuable work experience which has opened up new opportunities. For example I was a volunteer with  the MEND program for childhood obesity. I highly recommend the course to anyone who has interests which align with the programme.

Margot Hodgson

"I have been employed as a Physiotherapist in the field of mental health for many years. Although it was challenging to return to study as a mature student, this MSc provided a great opportunity to learn the skills necessary to underpin my practical work with evidence based research. I particularly liked the flexibility of the course which provided the opportunity to focus on one’s particular field of interest.

An outcome of my MSc has been the submission of a paper for publication with my advisor Professor Ken Fox and another MSc student. A grant application for research has also been submitted to focus further on the currently under researched area of physical activity and mental health."

Heather McCulloch

"Having been a Physiotherapist in the NHS for over 20 years I wished to expand my knowledge further and study at a higher level. Returning to the academic world, working part time and running a family home was challenging but I am now reaping the rewards. My MSc in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health has enabled me to secure a more senior post where I have the responsibility for facilitating a physical programme for adults with severe and enduring mental illness across a county. My MSc dissertation forms the basis of a joint paper co-written with Professor Ken Fox (University of Bristol) and a fellow MSc graduate and has inspired future research for which a funding bid has been submitted to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy."

Anne Fallows

"After a degree in Sports Science and a spell of work in the sports and leisure industry, I decided I wanted to extend my knowledge in public health and nutrition. I really enjoyed the MSc and my experience at Bristol University. After graduating I started working for a Welsh public health organisation which  was a direct result of having this MSc behind me. I have more recently started working for a company who organise and run extreme races around the world such as the North and South Pole race, primarily to work on developing nutrition strategies for racing in extreme conditions! A very exciting opportunity!"      

Charlotte Stirling-Reed

"I am now working as a Food Project Officer for the London Borough of Newham. I applied for the job whilst still doing the MSc and was accepted straight away. I believe the postgraduate degree I achieved at Bristol University helped me to accomplish this. The course taught me a lot of transferable skills that are essential when working as part of a team. Presentations and speeches in front of audiences are essential in my job and my MSc also helped me achieve a level of confidence in doing this."

Emma Creighton

"Feeling un-rewarded and un-fulfilled in a job in retailing, I desperately needed a career change. I found the course of my dreams, enrolled and I haven't looked back since. It wasn’t easy going back into education as a ‘mature’ student.  However, it was a turning point for me and gave me the confidence to seek out new opportunities and challenges. To gain some work experience while I studied I volunteered as a Dietetic Assistant and in a Health Promotion position

Since completing my MSc I have been inundated with project work including with a child obesity programme, MEND and as a School Meals Project Officer.  I can't believe how my life has changed and how much I enjoy going into work now. I would advise anyone considering a career in Public Health to enrol onto this course; it is simply fantastic.  The modules are so interesting and the staff are so helpful and supportive – thank you everyone at the University of Bristol!"

Harriet Murrell

“I undertook the MSc at Bristol to complement and help me to further my work as Public Health Lead within a PCT. It certainly fulfilled all expectations with interesting and varied lectures, led by people at the forefront of research in nutrition, physical activity and public health. Studying part-time while continuing with a full-time job was a definite balancing act but was beneficial to both my studies and role as I was able to immediately apply the majority of what I learnt, using experiences from working within Public Health in the assignments.

I have now changed roles and work across London as one of a team of regional physical activity for health coordinators. A challenging role which is key to influencing physical activity related policy and programme delivery across a variety of organisations including local authorities and PCTs. The skills and knowledge I developed through completing the MSc at Bristol are instrumental to my carrying out the job and ensuring that I am effective in the promotion of physical activity. I would certainly recommend this course to anyone either looking to work within Public Health or wishing to further their career in this field."

Mareesa O'Dwyer

“I decided to undertake the MSc course at the Department of Exercise, Nutrition and Health Sciences to specialise in the area of nutrition and physical activity. The modules on offer allowed me to gain an in depth knowledge base into the area of physical activity and child health - my principal interest. The method of assessment used at the department - essay and report writing allowed me to work on my scientific writing style which is really important if you want to pursue a career in the field of research. During the year there were countless opportunities to take part in volunteer projects both inside and outside of the department which I felt really benefited me in terms of evidence based practise. The support network within the department in terms of dissertation supervisors, lecturers and administration is second to none. I have recently been offered a post of Research and Evaluation Officer for a physical activity intervention programme which I know I would not have secured without this MSc.”

Brad Metcalf

“I applied to do this MSc to equip me for my new role as a physical activity researcher.  I completed the course part-time as I was doing a full-time job. The course was fantastic, exactly what I needed. The lectures were varied and comprehensive while the assignments could be tailored to suit my particular interest.  Many of the lecturers were leaders in their field and their enthusiasm definitely rubbed off on the students - the workshop sessions always generated lively discussion. The knowledge and understanding gained has helped me in my current role and I would  recommend it to anyone looking at a career in nutrition and/or physical activity- related research.”

Flo Kinnafick

 "After completing a degree in Sports Science and Psychology and working in the Fitness Industry  I was looking to further my career. The MSc was extremely interesting, with a variety of modules and was exactly what I had been looking for. My interest was physical activity and obesity for which the programme catered extensively. I am now a Research Assistant at the Institute of Child Health looking at physical activity and obesity in children. It would not have been possible for me to get this post  without the experience and relevant theory around the subject. In addition to the taught programme being superb, I found the staff in the department to be enthusiastic, helpful and very approachable. I would definitely recommend the programme to anyone!"

Jill McDonald

"I have worked as a nurse within the NHS for about 15 years. I started doing the MSc in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health on a part-time basis 3 years ago. It has been challenging fitting working as a Community Nurse in Bristol alongside all of the lectures and assignments; but I have to say thoroughly worth it! Since I started my MSc I have successfully gained a position as a Community Nurse for Older People, where I am actively promoting independent living for older people. I am currently looking at trying to start a befriending/buddy-up system for older people involving physical activity and mastery building skills. I am hoping to meet with both Age Concern and Bristol City Council in the near future. I feel the MSc has helped enhance my skills within my post, and given me knowledge to compliment my role. I would like to say a big thank you to all the lecturers, especially Angie Page, Mark Davies and Ken Fox for their support and enthusiasm."

Mark Clune

"I have recently accepted a post working as an After School Food Project Officer. I was able to really 'sell' what I learnt from this course. As the area is one of the most ethnically diverse places in the country knowledge of the difficulties faced by different ethnicities was essential. I also had to give a presentation during my interview and the small presentation we had to give in the course gave me some valuable experience and provided relevant feedback for future presentations."

Eleni Koui

"I joined the MSc in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health after having worked as a hospital-based dietitian for 5 years. My clinical interest is paediatric dietetics and I wanted to be able to broaden my skills and knowledge to a more public health orientated approach. I particularly chose the Bristol MSc because of the variety of the taught modules, the flexibility in focusing the final dissertation topic on my area of interest and the fact that the course assessment was based on assignments.  It was one of the most enjoyable, rewarding experiences particularly due to the ongoing support of the academic staff! I graduated in 2006 and I have been recommending the specific course to anybody wanting to study for an MSc and combine nutrition therapy with exercise and prevention strategies."

Craig Hyslop

"Having worked in the Health and Fitness Industry for several years and looking to  progress my career , enrolling on the MSc was an obvious move. The units are very well taught and the lecturers gain instant respect through their eminence in the field. A key skill that I learnt was an understanding of the link between research and practice in the real world.  Conversations with lecturers, guest speakers and other students helped my steep learning curve in public health work. After the MSc I worked for Bristol City Council and  progressed to my current role of Senior Physical Activity Development Officer.  My work involves health interventions with several different populations and I use the skills and understanding gained from my time at the University of Bristol on a daily basis.  I enjoy my job very much and wouldn’t have got it without the MSc."

Robert Carroll

"I applied for the MSc  to both focus and add to my somewhat generalised knowledge base. Coming from a physiology orientated background I was initially dubious as to whether I would be able to manage  the subject material, but  my concerns were laid to rest. The lectures were informative and staff were approachable, friendly and insightful. I also found topics I was particularly interested in, specifically physical activity in health and disease. Following on from this area I was able to become involved in my dissertation project. This involved a large cohort of newly diagnosed diabetic patients and assessing physical activity habits and how these were associated with disease management. Needless to say, the MSc has served to enhance my skills and understanding of the public health realm. As such I would not hesitate to recommend the course to anyone looking to become involved in this field."

 Tom Keeley

" I undertook the MSc to broaden my understanding of health science after a relatively restrictive undergraduate degree.  I was attracted by the contemporary nature of the course, and by the breadth of topics covered including the global approach to the study of health.  I was not disappointed.  This year has been exciting and challenging.  The course content encourages study of contemporary texts and analysis of government strategies.  The personable style in which the lectures are delivered allows for the airing of opinions and debate .  Assessment through extended essays allows one to research and study areas of individual interest. My knowledge base is greatly enhanced and I have been prepared well for work in this area.Lecturers are always willing to help and the focus of the department makes for a mature environment in which to study. The considerable amount of research that continues within the department gives opportunities to gain experience of primary research and even the possibility of seeking publication.  Combine this with the friendly atmosphere and regular socials that are run throughout the year the  department makes for a fantastic place to study.  I would say that anybody interested in the study of health science should strongly consider applying for this course."

Adrian Sayers 

"I completed my first degree in Sport Science specialising in biomechanics and physiology. However I was at a loss to how I would apply the skills in the real world. I popped into the department and asked for some advice about what would be a good career move and they suggested the MSc would broaden my horizons and allow me to apply the theories of physiology and biomechanics in a public health setting. All staff were very friendly and couldn't be more helpful. The course covered many areas of quantitative and qualitative research methods and was diverse and taught with enthusiasm.  This course improved my career prospects greatly, and since then I have worked on various projects and been instrumental in writing a number of peer reviewed publications."

 Rónán Doherty

"The MSc course increased my understanding of the roles nutrition and physical activity play in all aspects of health. I really enjoyed my time at the University. All members of staff are approachable, always willing to help and eager to pass on their knowledge of their respective fields. For my dissertation I investigated the effects of a walking intervention in low active individuals. During the research project I realised a career in health was what I really wanted. I am currently working as a Research Associate in University College Dublin on a Low Back Pain trial. The experience and knowledge I gained throughout the MSc undoubtedly helped me gain this position."

Susan Doohan

“My first degree was a BA in Social Policy and I had worked for several years in London before studying for the MSc.  I continued to work part time whilst studying, which is definitely possible but you have to plan your time very carefully - including time to relax!  The course content was varied and increased my knowledge of the nutritional issues that interested me and of the importance of physical activity in weight and health maintenance.  The staff were highly knowledgeable in their respective fields and very approachable.  Students on the course were also very supportive of one another.  I am now working part time as a Development Worker for the University of Bristol in the Mental Health Research Network, set up to support research.  I would highly recommend the MSc which is both interesting and rewarding."  

Sarah Bell

"After a degree in Psychology and Sport Studies  I arrived in Bristol to do the MSc . Feeling extremely nervous at the prospect of postgraduate study and settling into life in a new city, I was made to feel very welcome by all the staff in the department. Opportunities such as  data collection in schools allowed me to gain an insight into education whilst developing my research experience. I was able to focus on my interest in young people in every module I completed and tailor my assignments to this research area.I went on to complete a PGCE in primary education and was able to contribute to projects going on in school such as the Healthy Schools Programme with confidence and take up a leadership role early on in my career. I feel the MSc contributed to my development as a teacher and the knowledge and skills I gained had a direct impact on the lives of the young people and their families."

Louisa Newman

"Two and half years ago I embarked on a major career change, swapping suits, briefcases and too many business lunches for a role as Dietetic Assistant at Bristol’s NHS Eating Disorder Service and working on the general mental health wards at Southmead Hospital.  Alongside this I studied part time for the MSc – two years of intense study and a massive learning curve!  The information from the course and tutors proved invaluable in my job, allowing me to inform my practice with the most update information.  It was hard at times for sure – working full time and studying is a big ask but it is possible, and the support within the department and from fellow students was always available.  As much as I loved working as a Dietetic Assistant, it was really a ‘getting me started’ job in a new career field, and 3 weeks after submitting my dissertation, I had been offered a new role as Health Promotion Specialist for Bristol PCT.  I have no doubt that studying for the MSc had a huge amount to do with that!  I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is up for a challenge, a desire to learn, and wanting to make health a priority."

Heather Caswell

"I chose to do the MSc at Bristol as I wanted to move into the area of nutrition and health promotion, and felt this was an excellent course to allow me to do this. I found the modules really interesting, and the staff were all very friendly and helpful. I am now working as a research assistant at the British Nutrition Foundation. This involves answering public queries about nutrition, helping to produce the BNFs journal – the Bulletin – whilst also helping to organise conferences and other events the foundation runs. Further, I also get involved helping the nutrition scientists with their work, which can include writing articles for the Bulletin and helping with European projects. I have no doubt that this course made it possible for me to be able to do this!"

Sarah Troke

"As a part time student studying for the MSc alongside my job, it has definitely been the most intense 2 years of my life! Has it been worth it? Absolutely! The course has enabled me to further both professionally and personally. Before I started I was a Sports Development Manager. This course has given me theory and background behind why I do what I do, but more importantly it has opened my eyes to the wider picture of physical activity for health. I have always been passionate about what I do, but now I am well read about my area. I can critique evidence and research, I can plan and evaluate my physical activity projects with confidence and skill, and when I bore everyone with  my new found love for research and statistics (yes you read correctly) I do so with the knowledge that I know what I am talking about...most of the time!

Doing the MSc has allowed me to move away from the field of sport and into the world of physical activity for health and it truly is brilliant! I have a new job as an Active Lifestyle Manager. My work stems around creating innovative ways to encourage physically inactive adults to take up activity. My main project is planning and implementing a workplace health initiative across the whole Borough. I also manage walking and cycling programmes, GP-exercise referral, physical activity for adults with learning disabilities and projects in more deprived areas aiming to reduce health inequalities. I would not have dreamt of doing this job 2 years ago and would like to thank the staff in the department  for giving me such a fabulous tool. I highly recommend this department and the courses they provide!"

Georgia Herbert

"I came to Bristol having completed my undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy. My motivation for applying for the MSc in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health at the University of Bristol was that I wanted to study and develop within a department of academic excellence on a course that focused upon the most up-to-date public health research and issues. I found the department supportive and professional and the lectures stimulating. From the research methods and knowledge I gained from my dissertation I became inspired to develop these further and successfully applied for a PhD studentship at the University of Reading with a focus on healthy eating."

Pippa Griew

“I first heard of this MSc programme whilst working on a project providing free fruit to 4-6 year old school children.   At the time I was looking to advance my career in health promotion and this course seemed perfect for me.   I found the department a really friendly place to be with very supportive staff and students.   The course is well structured for people needing to work whilst studying and I was able to continue my role with the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme (SFVS) for two days a week. For my dissertation I took on a research project investigating the effectiveness of SFVS and it was during this time I decided that, rather than going back to health promotion, I would like to attempt a career in research.   Within 6 months of graduating I was lucky enough to be offered a Research Assistant position back here in the ENHS department and am now enjoying working on a project investigating the influence of the physical environment on children’s physical activity levels, and have just started a PhD in a related area.   Needless to say this is all thanks to the MSc course and I would highly recommend it to any one interested in starting a career in research.”

Rachel Clark

"When I decided to pursue a career in nutrition and health, the MSc course at Bristol looked to be the perfect stepping stone.  I had never aspired to complete a Masters but I needed to learn more.  The variety of modules at Bristol seemed to cover everything that I was interested in.  I honestly could not have made a better choice.  Lectures were interesting, varied and well-informed; accompanied by some excellent external speakers and assignments were varied and challenging.  I found the department inspiring and studying there simply enhanced my own passion for health and health promotion, and made me more determined that I could make a difference.  I would strongly recommend this MSc to anyone interested in pursuing a career in any aspect of public health.  Simply mentioning the course has sparked interest from potential employers, and the opportunities stemming from it appear to be limitless!  I was offered (and took) a Research Assistant post at a health department at Cardiff University whilst still completing the course, working on an Evaluation of a Free Breakfasts Initiative, which is currently being piloted across primary schools in Wales.  I recently decided to change direction and move into public health promotion as opposed to research.  I’ve since been offered the position of Nutrition Project Coordinator at Newport Local Health Board and will start next month!"

Ana Zuazagoitia , Spain

" I really enjoyed the course, and learnt a lot too! I am now working in a research project called InterAct-EPIC, co ordinated from Cambridge. It’s focused on analysing the relationship between diabetes and other variables such as nutrition and physical activity. Interesting! I am also teaching a few hours at  university."

Joanna Coulson

"Coming from a 'non-traditional' background certainly seemed daunting when applying for and then actually being accepted on the MSc!  I’d not only graduated with a ‘unrelated’ first degree of French & Spanish but hadn't studied for 7 years.  I’d pursued an equally unconnected career in sales and academic admin.  However, I haven't regretted my 'career-changing' style decision for a minute. I would really recommend studying full-time if you think you can manage financially, particularly so you can throw yourself into the 'student life' (again) whilst you have the chance! - I became student rep.  I thoroughly believe you get out of the experience as much as you put in! The department is great - the staff & their enthusiasm are second to none.  I found the standard and variety of teaching excellent and field-leading nature of the unit contents fascinating.  I’m now employed in a local NHS/PCT health promotion department, as hoped for!  My work involves trying to change attitudes and environmental influences around tobacco control … as Bristol’s ‘Smoke-free public places advisor.’ If you’re excited by the sound of this course, my advice would be to just go for it!"

Nik Storey

"I've just got a post working for the NHS as a Tobacco Control Coordinator - its the job I wanted. As regards the MSc, I simply would not have got the job interview without it.The course shifted my attention from the physical activity part of public health and the importance of exercise, to the wider determinants of health. I gained a substantial insight into the nutritional side of public health, as well as into smoking cessation and tobacco control. The background information provided in the course has been the inspiration for me searching for a post in this area. In turn it has provided me with the knowledge needed to be successful in public health and tobacco control. Many thanks to the departmental staff!"

Lauren Holloway

"Before starting the MSc in Nutrition Physical Activity and Public Health, I had a vague idea that I wanted to become involved in public health. After completing the course, I found myself empowered and compassionate, and knew exactly what I wanted to do and how I wanted to do it! The course was taught through many fascinating and informative lectures and talks, although I feel the largest personal gain I derived from the year, was learning to think for myself and critically evaluate others work, which enthused me to do it better! I recently had an interview in Caerphilly County Borough Council for a Healthy Living Officer post. I was unsuccessful in the original post, but they found money in their budget to create a job for me to evaluate the Lottery funded Healthy Living Centres in the Caerphilly area. I am really enjoying transferring the knowledge from the MSc into the community evaluation project, with prospects of expanding to other projects within the Caerphilly County Borough Council's Health Alliance. I am very excited that I have found my passion, and extremely grateful to all the team at the University of Bristol for giving me this opportunity."

Alison F. Ludwig

"I had wanted to do a Master’s degree for a long time. Having earned a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics in the US, I felt it would be appropriate to build upon that knowledge as well as expand into new areas. The course offered by the Exercise and Health Sciences Department was perfect for my requirements. Not only was the course rewarding and challenging but also teaching standards were of the highest quality. In my experience, the lecturers were always available to help students achieve their best. I would highly recommend the course to anyone with either a nutrition, dietetics or exercise background."

Carol O'Beney

"I am now working at Camden Active Health Team as a physical activity specialist in mental health. This involves project managing the provision of physical activity for the mental health clients of Camden. I work within a team of other physical activity specialists, including those working with diabetes, obesity, CHD, stroke and osteoporosis. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work at the forefront of health promotion and I couldn’t have hoped for a better job. The MSc has provided me with the knowledge, contacts and inspiration to work in this field and I am confident that it gave me the edge when securing the job. The department continues to be very supportive whilst I am in the final stages of my dissertation. I can’t recommend this course highly enough. It has certainly helped me make a giant leap in my career."