Course overview
Deakin's Bachelor of Nutrition Science (Dietetics Pathway) is the first step in your journey to becoming a dietitian, offering guaranteed entry into our Master of Dietetics if you achieve a 75 weighted average mark or above. The course develops your understanding of human nutrition and its impact on health. Learn how to tackle challenges facing our society including disease prevention, obesity, the spread of misinformation, and the social and physiological effects of food on our wellbeing.
Modelled on commercial laboratories, our food preparation, food analysis and sensory labs provide hands-on, real-world experience to prepare you for the workplace. You’ll also complete at least 75 hours of industry placement, developing in-demand practical skills to improve health through food and nutrition. 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.
Want to have a real impact on population health and improve the wellbeing of communities?
This course offers the same structure and units as our Bachelor of Nutrition Science, while ensuring dietetics prerequisites are incorporated as core units, to fulfil the entry requirements for the Master of Dietetics . Graduates will receive an offer to study in the Master of Dietetics after completing the necessary units and meeting the weighted average mark (WAM) requirement.
In this course, you will study a broad range of subjects that unlock a variety of career opportunities across health and nutrition industries. Gain a comprehensive understanding of:
- the role of food in disease prevention
- nutrition education and research
- food choice and intake
- food regulation
- nutritional physiology
- lifespan nutrition
- sustainable food systems
- the science of food.
To add diversity to your degree and expand your career opportunities, you can choose elective units in complementary areas such as food innovation, health promotion, psychology, physical activity and health or exercise science.
A major in food innovation will prepare you for a career in the food industry, where your knowledge of nutrition and food composition will facilitate the creation and marketing of food products that help to improve health.
You will gain 75 hours of valuable practical experience through the Food and Nutrition Practicum core unit in your final year. This allows you to build industry experience and connections while applying your skills alongside established nutritionists or food industry professionals.
Discover Deakin’s food, nutrition, and dietetics courses, designed to equip you with the skills needed to understand the vital link between food and health. If you’re passionate about becoming a dietitian, our Master of Dietetics provides the pathway to accreditation. Alternatively, explore other nutrition-related careers through our combined degrees, such as the Bachelor of Nutrition Science/Bachelor of Commerce which blends nutrition knowledge with business expertise.
*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 (Dietetics Pathway)
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400510673 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place
- Deakin code
- H318
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 0101098 Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
#1 Victorian uni for graduate employment
Choose a Deakin degree for vital industry experience on placements, hands-on learning in world-class facilities and guidance from industry-expert academics. We offer lifetime career support and are the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Nutrition Science (Dietetic Pathway), you must pass 24 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 compulsory unit) prior to the first laboratory based unit in this course
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit) prior to the first SLE coded unit
- HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety (0-credit-point compulsory unit) prior to commencing HSE208
- 18 credit points of core units
- 4 credit points of HSN coded (nutrition and food) electives
- 2 credit points of open elective units
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
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. The course maps will guide the units you need to enrol in each trimester.
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Level 1 - Trimester 2
Level 2 - Trimester 1
plus 2 HSN-coded units - recommended at level 2
Level 2 - Trimester 2
plus 1 HSN-coded unit- recommended at level 2
Level 3 - Trimester 1
plus 1 HSN-coded level 3 unit
plus 1 elective unit - recommended at level 2 or level 3
Level 3 - Trimester 2
plus one elective unit - recommended at Level 2 or Level 3
Electives are offered subject to availability of resources and quotas where applicable.
For your 2 elective units, you can choose to undertake units from any area of the university. You may wish to use the Advanced Unit Search function in the unit handbook to search for elective units.
It is recommended that students take the
As there are only 2 elective spaces in this course, other major options are not available, however you may choose to undertake the units within other majors, as electives.
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)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
CHOOSE DEAKIN, THE #1 VICTORIAN UNIVERSITY FOR COURSE SATISFACTION
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
Approximately 150 hours of learning and assessment activities per credit point
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
Students are required to complete laboratory safety modules and a compulsory zero credit point Academic Integrity unit.
Deakin’s standard holiday breaks are listed here.
This course allows you to select elective units that may include placements, work based training, community-based learning and collaborative research training arrangements. Before you enrol in units, please check the unit specification to understand these compulsory learning experiences. Placement may occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks, upon discussion with host organisation.
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
Work Integrated Learning
You will enhance your employment prospects by consolidating your knowledge and skills through realistic field experience in HSN311 Food and Nutrition Practicum in your final 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.
Please note, there are limited places in this course and entry is competitive. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible. Applications for this course may close prior to the published closing date if all places are filled.
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 haven’t 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) 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 Biology, any English, Food Studies or Health and Human Development 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 Biology, any English, Food Studies, Health and Human Development or Maths: General Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in Chemistry, Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 2 aggregate points per study. 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.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$42,000 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
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Following the completion of your bachelor degree, you can take your next step towards becoming a dietitian with the Master of Dietetics. Once completed, you will be eligible to apply for full membership with Dietetics Australia and the Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD) program and work in all areas of dietetics. You can visit our nutrition and dietetics careers page for more information.
If you don’t continue with the Master of Dietetics, your career outcomes will reflect those of Bachelor of Nutrition Science graduates. As a qualified nutritionist, you’ll be equipped to provide evidence-based advice and work across areas such as:
- nutrition and population health
- food analysis and sustainability
- disease prevention and food analysis
- assessing and evaluating food intake
- advocacy, promotion, media and marketing
- quality assurance, consulting and self-employment.
If you’ve completed the Food Innovation major, you’ll also be prepared for roles in:
- consumer behaviour and education
- research and food regulation
- product development and sensory analysis
- food quality, safety and manufacturing.
Explore more career pathways on our nutrition careers page.
Professional recognition
While studying this degree, you are eligible to apply for student membership with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA). Graduates who elect to not complete the Master of Dietetics can apply for ordinary membership of NSA and apply to become a Registered Associate Nutritionist. Registration will ensure you are recognised as a qualified nutrition professional in the field.
Graduates are also eligible to apply to become a Registered Associate Nutritionist with the:
Additionally, if you have completed this degree with a major in food innovation, you may also seek membership into the Australian Institute of Food, Science and Technology (AIFST).
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 |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply food and nutrition and health knowledge from a range of perspectives. |
| Communication | Select and use a variety of engaging communication modes to disseminate knowledge to individuals, groups, government and non-government organisations and health professionals. |
| Digital literacy | Select and use appropriate technologies to source, understand, evaluate, and communicate information to professional networks and communities. |
| Critical thinking | Source and critically analyse the food and nutrition literature to apply an evidence-based approach to the field. |
| Problem solving | Identify and apply practical solutions to a range of changing and complex food and nutrition and health issues. |
| Self-management | Employ self-directed, reflective work and learning practices in a responsible manner to professionally contribute to nutrition sciences. |
| Teamwork | Work collaboratively as part of interdisciplinary teams with a range of stakeholders to advance the field of nutrition sciences. |
| Global citizenship | Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates awareness of, and adaptability to, diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts in nutrition sciences. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
