Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University are launching a joint Bachelor's programme in nutrition science - the only education of its kind in Sweden.
For more than 30 years, nutritionists have been educated at Stockholm University (SU) in close collaboration with Karolinska Institutet (KI). Now the partnership is taking its next step: In the autumn of 2027, a new Bachelor's Programme in Nutrition Science will start - a three‑year scientific/medical education leading to a joint degree from both universities.
Nutritionists play an important role in society, bringing specialised expertise in diet and health with a solid scientific foundation. They often work at the intersection of research, public health, governmental agencies, and the food industry, where broad knowledge of nutrition science is required, from molecules and cells to humans and society. Their skills include analysing diet‑related issues, conducting research and development, and communicating the relationships between diet and health.
Reshaping the education in nutrition science
The nutrition education is the only one of its kind in Sweden and is now also becoming unique as the first programme on bachelor‑level to be run jointly by KI and SU.
"This gives the programme a clearer combined scientific and medical profile. Together we can offer an education at a high scientific level, where the shared expertise of KI and SU provides both depth and breadth to the growing field of nutrition science," says Maria Henström Engblom , researcher and lecturer at the Department of Medicine, Huddinge , KI, and one of the driving forces behind the new programme.
Much of the content will resemble the former Bachelor's Programme in Nutrition at Stockholm University, but the new programme is being developed to better meet the needs of society and the research field. Students will also belong to both universities for the entire duration of their studies, giving them access to two campus environments, two research settings, and a broader network.
"Launching this new joint programme is a major step forward and an important strategic investment. The students will get the best of both worlds - a strong scientific and medical education closely linked to research and development at both universities, says Pher Andersson, Professor at the Department of Chemistry , SU, and another key person in shaping the new programme.
