Below is a more detailed description of the academic progression across the three years of study, as well as an outline of the bachelor’s thesis work.

Year 1
In the first year, students acquire broad and research-based knowledge in nutrition, exercise, and communication/guidance. Within nutrition, students learn to communicate national dietary guidelines and provide evidence-based recommendations for good health and the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. In exercise, students develop both theoretical and practical competence in strength and endurance training, focusing on effective session design, technique, training principles, and safe dosage across the lifespan. They learn to use digital tools to create training plans, adapt exercise to various target groups, and understand the role of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases. In communication and guidance, students gain insight into coaching, motivational interviewing, and relationship building. They learn to assess individual needs, motivate for lifestyle changes, and facilitate sustainable behavioural change. Altogether, the first year provides students with a foundational understanding of how nutrition, exercise, and communication/guidance can be used to help people improve their fitness and overall health.

Year 2
In the second year, students further develop their competence in applying knowledge about exercise and nutrition to various target groups, with a particular focus on health promotion and lifestyle modification. They learn to plan and implement tailored training programmes for individuals with non-communicable diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, mental health challenges, and musculoskeletal disorders. Through practical work and observation in relevant health institutions, students gain insight into how physical activity is used as part of treatment and rehabilitation, and how to engage with vulnerable groups with empathy and professionalism. In nutrition, students learn to provide guidance for individuals with different needs and at different life stages, with special focus on physically active individuals, children, older adults, pregnant women, and those seeking weight reduction. They practice using dietary assessment tools, evaluating body composition, and giving advice tailored to individual circumstances. Throughout the year, communication and coaching remain central. The fourth semester is dedicated entirely to elective courses, offering unique opportunities for international exchange or for students to personalise their bachelor’s degree through specialised topics of interest.

Year 3
In the third year, students advance their competence as health coaches with a particular focus on the practical application of knowledge in health assessment, behavioural change, nutrition, and public health promotion. They receive training in various testing methods and learn to conduct health assessments for individuals of different ages and fitness levels, including planning, testing, interpretation, and counselling. Students gain deeper insight into health guidance with emphasis on long-term behavioural change, combining previous knowledge in nutrition, exercise, and communication with methods from health psychology, coaching, and behaviour modification. They practice both individual and digital counselling over time, learning to adapt and evaluate interventions based on client needs and motivation. In nutrition, students develop skills in communicating dietary advice to different groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals at risk of lifestyle-related diseases. They learn to conduct courses, use social media professionally, and organise food procurement in line with dietary recommendations.

The bachelor’s thesis allows students to explore a relevant issue in depth, developing competence in research methodology and scientific writing. The final part of the year focuses on professionalisation and career preparation, including practical placements in relevant organisations, training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and anti-doping, and developing a personal professional profile. The combination of independent scientific work and practical experience prepares students for future professional responsibilities and supports lifelong learning.

Study program FAE

Bachelor in Nutrition, Exercise, and Health