Zayed University launches MSc in Human Nutrition to align with UAE's health priorities
 

(ABU DHABI) - Zayed University has announced the launch of a Master of Science (MSc) in Human Nutrition program at its Abu Dhabi campus, to align with national priorities in the areas of public health, food security, and quality of life. The program aims to prepare a generation of experts capable of addressing the country's health and nutrition challenges, in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 Vision, the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, and the National Nutrition Strategy 2030.

The MSc in Human Nutrition provides graduates with practical skills and recognized qualifications to address pressing public health challenges associated with unhealthy dietary practices. The UAE government has set clear targets and introduced ambitious action plans to combat non-communicable diseases, creating a strong mandate to expand the nutrition workforce with professionals trained in epidemiology, disease prevention, dietary assessment, cultural practices in the GCC, and effective behavior-change strategies.

Students in the program can engage in real-world research projects, community interventions, and collaborative publications that align with UAE national health strategies. The program benefits from Zayed University’s established partnerships with organizations such as the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health, PureHealth, and Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrine Center.

Participants will also be able to support public health campaigns and collaborative research projects that bridge academic knowledge with societal needs.

In addition, the program leverages Zayed University's strategically located campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with direct access to regional health authorities, hospitals, NGOs, and international agencies, making it accessible to residents, professionals, and prospective students. Students will also have access to advanced laboratory infrastructure, including tools for body composition analysis and dietary assessment, equipping students with the technical expertise required for clinical practice to address the UAE’s evolving health and nutrition challenges.

The MSc in Human Nutrition is being developed in line with the standards of the Association for Nutrition (AfN), building on the success of Zayed University’s AfN-accredited Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Nutrition. This ensures the master’s curriculum meets international benchmarks, enhancing graduate recognition and supporting future professional licensure.

To further strengthen employability, students will also have the opportunity to pursue internationally recognized certifications from Highfield International, one of the world’s leading awarding bodies for vocational and professional qualifications, in areas such as food safety and health promotion. These additional qualifications give graduates a competitive edge across clinical practice, regulatory bodies, and community nutrition programs.

Commenting on the program, Dr. Lina Al Kury, Professor and Chair of the Department of Health Sciences at Zayed University, said, “The MSc in Human Nutrition embodies the university's commitment to supporting the UAE's health priorities by preparing graduates capable of transforming scientific knowledge into practical solutions that contribute to building a healthier society. The program was designed according to the highest international standards and in collaboration with leading healthcare institutions to prepare qualified personnel who will make a tangible difference in the fields of clinical nutrition, public health, and sustainable food systems."

The UAE’s strong focus on community health and sustainable food systems creates an urgent need for highly qualified nutrition professionals. The launch of this program highlights Zayed University’s role in shaping a new generation of leaders equipped to deliver innovative solutions to the region’s most pressing health challenges.

Admissions for the MSc in Human Nutrition are now open, with the first intake beginning in Spring 2026. Prospective students can apply through the Zayed University website at www.zu.ac.ae.
                                                                                                          

                        
                

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