Science and Practice of Dietary Supplements in Sport, Exercise and Health - SPO1067
Module code: SPO1067
NFQ level: 9
ECTS credits: 10
Commencing: September 2025
Cost: The fee for this module is €1,250.
The University does not refund application or registration fees for professional development courses, however, students can defer their registration to the next available sitting, except in the case of micro-credential courses where there is no availability for a deferred entry.
Closing date: August 30th 2025, or earlier if this course is oversubscribed.
Module aim
Many professionals across both applied nutrition practice and the food business sector lack comprehensive training on the safe and effective use of supplements, product development, and the regulatory landscape, which are crucial for making informed decisions and advising clients or consumers. This module addresses these gaps by providing a robust educational framework that blends scientific theory with real-world application, equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the growing demand for expert guidance in dietary supplement use and development.
Who should apply?
Applications are welcomed from professionals across the spectrum of sport and exercise sciences, allied health professions, and food business sector, who have interests relevant to the science and practice of dietary supplements. These may include, but are not limited to, sport and exercise nutritionists, dietitians, strength and conditioning specialists, physiotherapists, general practitioners, and other allied health professions as well as professionals based in the nutrition and food business sector including R&D, NPD, quality assurance, education, and marketing staff. The module will cater for those who wish to develop their knowledge of the applied practice of dietary supplement use as well as those interested in the science of the dietary supplements relevant to product development. Applications from international learners are also welcomed.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
- Recognise key physiological and metabolic concepts relevant to sport, exercise and health across the life course, and how these concepts influence nutrient requirements that may be addressed by dietary supplements
- Search for, synthesise and critically-appraise scientific literature relevant to the science and practice of dietary supplements
- Reflect on commercial, sociocultural and ethical issues relevant to dietary supplement development and use in sport, exercise or health contexts
- Develop strategies based around dietary supplement development and use to address real-world case studies in sport-, exercise- and health-related context
Online delivery
This module will be delivered entirely online and is designed for those wanting to engage in education while working full-time. There will be a three hour per week commitment for 12 weeks with a mix of live classes, tutorials and online content. Learners should also allow for additional time for independent tasks and assignments.
Learners will be assessed via continuous assessment (e.g. through assignments and projects but not through a written exam).
All registered learners will have access to DCUs eLibrary and DCU’s student portal, Loop.
Entry requirements
Applicants will be expected to hold a primary Level 8 (NFQ or equivalent, minimum 2.2) in an area of sport and exercise science, allied health and healthcare professions, food science, life sciences, or cognate area e.g. employed in the nutrition and food business sector.
Where English is not their first language, applicants will be required to have an appropriate score in an approved examination in English language, such as IELTS.
In line with DCU policy, students who do not have the appropriate level of academic attainment for direct entry may apply via the Recognition of Prior Learning process (RPL). RPL applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. Candidates applying through RPL will be shortlisted for interview.
Please Note: Applicants may not apply to take more than 30 credits of micro-credentials.
How to apply
For information on how to apply for this micro-credential, please visit our Application Guide.