Course overview
Build your foundation knowledge in nutrition science and learn how nutrition affects population health, disease and ageing, and gain a deep understanding of the commercial forces that guide Australia's $130 billion food industry.* With Deakin's Bachelor of Nutrition Science/Bachelor of Commerce, you will graduate with highly transferable skills that allow you to work in either field, or where nutrition and business connect.
Hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art food sensory labs will ensure you graduate with practical skills that prepare you for employment in the thriving health and food industries, with the advanced knowledge to provide evidence-based nutrition advice throughout community settings. Your commerce degree builds expertise in analysis and reporting to guide business decisions. Gain experience with real clients on industry projects and learn from business leaders driving innovation.
Why not combine your passion for food and nutrition with business skills and help shape the future of Australia's food industry?
While studying nutrition science, you will gain expertise and insight into the overall impact of food on health and wellbeing, and graduate ready for a variety of career opportunities across health and nutrition industries.
Your commerce degree will help you build confidence, commercial acumen and specialist skills to make an impact in business and government. You will develop the ability to analyse data, communicate insights and think strategically, all foundations for success across sectors like finance, marketing and the nutrition industry.
The majors available in the commerce stream of this degree include:
- accounting
- economics
- finance
- human resource management
- management
- management information systems
- marketing.
Both the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Deakin Business School house state-of-the-art facilities to expose you to industry-standard environments while you study. Put theories to the test in our food sensory labs and develop your skills in business focused learning spaces.
Broaden your cultural understanding of nutrition and commerce by taking the opportunity to study abroad for a trimester. International study provides invaluable experience that prepares you to transition from course to career within Australia and around the globe.
With more than 7% of the total burden of disease in Australia due to poor diet^, graduate with the practical skills to improve health and wellbeing through food and nutrition and the commercial prowess to make large scale changes to the food industry.
Discover our food, nutrition and dietetics courses.
*State of the Industry - Australian Food and Grocery Council, 2020-2021
^Australian Burden of Disease Study: Impact and causes of illness and death in Australia 2018
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
Bachelor of Nutrition Science/Bachelor of Commerce
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400510113 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place
- Deakin code
- D301
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 095522K Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
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Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Nutrition Science/Bachelor of Commerce, you must pass 32 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- HSN010 Food and Nutrition Laboratory Safety (0-credit-point unit) and SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point unit) prior to your first laboratory based unit in this course
- 16 credit points from the H315 Bachelor of Nutrition Science
- 16 credit points of core units
- 16 credit points from the M300 Bachelor of Commerce
- 8 credit points of core units
- 1 commerce major that consists of 8 credit points (excluding Financial Planning)
- a maximum of 12 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 10 credit points at level 3 or above
- course requirements for both the Bachelor of Nutrition Science (H315) and Bachelor of Commerce (M300) must be satisfied
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Course structure applies for students who commenced in 2022 onwards. Students who commenced prior to 2022 should refer to previous online Handbooks or contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
Please refer to the Course Map page for course map information.
Please contact a Student Adviser for specific course planning by submitting an enquiry.
Completion of HSN010 Food and Nutrition Laboratory Safety and SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program prior to your first laboratory- based units in this course.
Students may be able to complete their course in three years by undertaking units in Trimester 3, subject to availability of units in Trimester 3. Please refer to the Course Map page for course map information. The course maps will guide the units you need to enrol in each trimester.
Burwood students will need to enrol into the Burwood unit offerings.
Core units
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Plus two units from one Commerce major sequence
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Plus two units from one Commerce major sequence
Year 4 - Trimester 1
Plus two units from one Commerce major sequence
Year 4 - Trimester 2
Plus two units from one Commerce major sequence
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
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Alternative exits
Bachelor of Nutrition Science (H315)
Bachelor of Commerce (M300)
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Mandatory student checks
Working with Children Check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for the relevant state prior to undertaking placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement unit.
Police Record Check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement unit.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
You will enhance your employment prospects by consolidating your knowledge and skills through realistic field experience in HSN311 Food and Nutrition Practicum in your third year.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 25 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 30 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 25 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in any Business, any English, Food Studies, Health And Human Development or any Information Technology equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Chemistry, Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any Business, English other than EAL, Food Studies, Health And Human Development, any Information Technology or Maths: General Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in Chemistry equals 2 aggregate points. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Elite Athletic Program
Student athletes may be eligible to receive 5 bonus aggregate points. Applicants wishing to be considered for an elite athlete bonus must complete a personal statement indicating how their studies have been impacted by participation in sport at an elite level. Applicants must also provide documented evidence of their participation in sport at an elite level to be considered for this. Learn more about the Elite Athlete Program eligibility and how to apply.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$45,800 for 1 yr full-time AUD
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The tuition fees you pay are determined by the course you are enrolled in. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about international student fees.
Scholarship options
Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.
Apply through VTAC
If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you must submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). In addition, you may also apply directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.
Need more information on how to apply?
For information on the application process, including required documents and important dates, visit the How to apply webpage.
If you need assistance, please contact us.
Pathways
This course can be a pathway to:
Bachelor of Nutrition Science (Honours) (H418)
Master of Human Nutrition (H714)
Master of Nutrition and Population Health (H748)
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Do you want to help shape the future of Australia’s food industry? This double degree offers a unique opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the job market. By studying nutrition alongside business and commerce, you will not only develop an in-depth understanding of how nutrition impacts public health, but also acquire the essential business skills needed to critically analyse its relationship to the marketplace.
As a graduate from Deakin, the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment, you will be highly sought-after by employers in a variety of industries. You will be prepared to pursue rewarding roles in areas such as:
- brand/product management
- consumer education
- consumer research
- food composition
- food policy
- food regulation
- management
- marketing and media
- quality assurance
- wholesale and retail.
With Deakin’s strong industry connections and a focus on practical experience, you will be equipped to enter the workforce with confidence, ready to contribute to the food and nutrition sector both locally and globally.
Professional recognition
This qualification allows you to receive recognition from both nutrition and business professional bodies.
Enrolled students and graduates may apply for membership of the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA). Graduates may apply for registration which will ensure you’re recognised as a qualified nutrition professional in the field.
Deakin Business School holds the prestigious and globally recognised AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, which attest to quality, academic and professional excellence, ongoing improvement, innovation and graduate employability.
Our courses are developed and reviewed with industry and professional input.
Graduates are eligible to apply to become a Registered Associate Nutritionist with the:
Deakin Business School holds the prestigious and globally recognised AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, which attest to quality, academic and professional excellence, ongoing improvement, innovation and graduate employability.
Deakin’s accounting major enables students to apply for the:
The marketing major provides a one-year credit towards the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) five-year Certified Practicing Marketer and Chartered Marketer certification.
Students who complete the finance major are recognised through the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program.
The human resource management major enables students to apply for the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) membership.
Students should consult with a Student Adviser to identify any additional requirements for membership for each professional body, and also consult with the professional body.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Nutrition Science (H315) | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Commerce (M300) |
|---|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply food and nutrition and health knowledge from a range of perspectives. | Apply a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge of commerce and its applications |
| Communication | Select and use a variety of engaging communication modes to disseminate knowledge to individuals, groups, government and non-government organisations and health professionals. | Communicate commerce concepts and information effectively including in oral, written and visual forms in a cohesive and understandable manner to academic audiences, business professionals and laypersons |
| Digital literacy | Select and use appropriate technologies to source, understand, evaluate, and communicate information to professional networks and communities. | Use technologies to identify, locate, evaluate, synthesise and disseminate and communicate information in the field of commerce |
| Critical thinking | Source and critically analyse the food and nutrition literature to apply an evidence-based approach to the field. | Evaluate and critically analyse academic, professional and business information and values |
| Problem solving | Identify and apply practical solutions to a range of changing and complex food and nutrition and health issues. | Identify solutions to a diverse range of authentic problems in commerce |
| Self-management | Employ self-directed, reflective work and learning practices in a responsible manner to professionally contribute to nutrition sciences. | Take personal responsibility for actions, self-reflect and critique own performance and identify and plan future professional development |
| Teamwork | Work collaboratively as part of interdisciplinary teams with a range of stakeholders to advance the field of nutrition sciences. | Interact and collaborate with others from a range of disciplines and backgrounds |
| Global citizenship | Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates awareness of, and adaptability to, diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts in nutrition sciences. | Engage effectively in different environments and contexts reflecting social, sustainable, ethical, economic, and global perspectives in the field of commerce |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
