Key facts
Duration
The time and cost can be reduced based on your previous qualifications and professional experience. This means you can fast track the masters degree from 1.5 years down to 1 year duration. See entry requirements below for more information.
Locations
OnlineCourse overview
Study the Master of Human Nutrition to develop advanced expertise in the relationship between nutrition and health. You will build the skills to translate evidence-based knowledge into practice, policy and research that supports improved population health outcomes.
Drawing on disciplines including food science, physiology, epidemiology and public health, you will develop a comprehensive and applied understanding of nutrition. This interdisciplinary approach enables you to evaluate complex nutrition challenges and deliver informed, evidence-based advice across diverse settings.
Backed by Deakin’s #1 ranking in Australia for nutrition science research, you can tailor your degree through elective study, research projects and practical learning experiences. Graduates of this course may be eligible to register as an associate nutritionist or to progress to a research degree such as a PhD.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2026 close 18 October 2026
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Human Nutrition
- Year
2027 course information
- Deakin code
- H714
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
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Join more than 78,000 online Deakin students who have successfully graduated from the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment. Discover why we’re a leader in online university courses.
Course structure
To complete the Master of Human Nutrition students must 12 credit points. The number of credit points required may vary, depending on your entry point or how much credit you receive as recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on your professional experience and previous qualifications.
A 12-credit point Master of Human Nutrition includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 6 credit points of core units
- 6 credit points which may comprise of:
- Research Based Project Option A
- HSN753 Research Practice in Human Nutrition (1 credit point)
- 3 credit points of course elective units
- 2 credit points of open elective units
- Research Based Project Option B
- HSN750 Nutrition Research Project Part A (2 credit points) and HSN751 Nutrition Research Project Part B (2 credit points)
- 2 credit points of course or open elective units.
- Research Based Project Option A
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.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Students who completed an undergraduate degree from a non-cognate undergraduate study area (e.g. Arts, Commerce, Business, any non-health/science study areas, etc) must complete either H511 Graduate Certificate of Human Nutrition or H616 Graduate Diploma of Human Nutrition first before enrolling into H714 Master of Human Nutrition.
Students who completed an undergraduate degree from a cognate study area may be granted preclusions for the units they have completed in their undergraduate course.
Preclusions mean that you are not required to undertake the specific units within the Masters course but you will need to choose another HSN7xx electives instead.
For example: H315 Bachelor of Nutrition Sciences student has completed HSN211 Nutritional Physiology, they can be precluded from HSN701 Principles of Nutrition and they will need to choose another HSN7XX unit to replace HSN701.
Students must enrol in the online offerings of all units
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Trimester 3
AND
Research Based Project Option A
Trimester 3
Students would need to complete an additional 5 elective units to complete the 12 credit points for the H714 Master of Human Nutrition.
OR
Research Based Project Option B
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Students would need to complete an additional 2 elective units to complete the 12 credit points for the H714 Master of Human Nutrition
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Trimester 3
* Practicum Unit
# Study Tour Unit
Students intending to use H714 Master of Human Nutrition as a PhD entry pathway must complete these units:
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:
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Online
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Online
ACHIEVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR COURSE SATISFACTION
Alternative exits
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
Applicable only to students undertaking practicum unit as an elective. Not mandatory for all students.
Working with Children Check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for the relevant state prior to undertaking a optional placement as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students if they enrol into an optional placement unit. Learn more about the Working with Children Check.
Police record check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for any optional placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students if they enrol into an optional placement unit.
Workload
As a student in an online course in the Faculty of Health you will be expected to spend 11-13 hours every week studying, interacting online and completing assessment tasks for each unit in your course.
Participation requirements
Students are required to complete core units in Trimester 3 of the course.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
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 principles are embedded within all units. A Postgraduate Nutrition Practicum unit is also available for students to elect to undertake. Specifically designed Careers modules are available on the course specific site.
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 or higher 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.
To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline and at least two years' of relevant work experience
Examples of related discipline areas include, but not limited to: nutrition, food science, health science, exercise science, biomedical science, allied health, science or nursing.
Examples of relevant work experience include, but not limited to: Working in a nutrition-related field, or have a food-focussed role. Regardless of the nutrition-related role, to qualify they also must be supervised by a qualified nutritionist or dietitian.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) in each component of test
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
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 and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$31,600 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a FEE-HELP loan to defer all or part of your tuition fees.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Deakin alumni discount
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Pathways
Students who wish to undertake a PhD in the future are recommended to complete units HSN715 Understanding Human Nutrition Research Studies, HSN719 Assessment Methods for Nutrition and Physical Activity Research, HSN750 Nutrition Research Project Part A and HSN751 Nutrition Research Project Part B.
Alternate exits
Career outcomes
As global health challenges such as obesity, malnutrition and mental illness continue to rise, so too does public interest in the vital connection between nutrition and health. This growing awareness has fuelled demand for qualified health professionals who can deliver reliable, evidence-based nutrition advice. In fact, jobs in nutrition are projected to increase by 16.6% over the next five years to 2030.*
At Deakin, you will be learning from experts at the forefront of the field. Be inspired by our leading nutrition science research, recently ranked number one in Australia.^ This excellence in research underpins the course content and ensures that you are gaining skills and insights informed by the latest evidence.
As a graduate of our Master of Human Nutrition, you will be equipped with the practical skills, knowledge and real-world experience required to meet rising industry demand. You will be ready to step into roles such as nutritionist, nutrition promotion officer or nutrition consultant, with opportunities across a variety of sectors, including:
- the food industry
- state and federal health departments
- non-government organisations focused on nutrition and public health
- news and media organisations
- education and community settings
- private business and consultancy.
Whether you are developing and delivering community nutrition programs or working on large-scale public health campaigns, you will be prepared to make a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
Learn more about careers in nutrition.
* 2025 Employment Projections – for the five years to 2030, Australian Government, Jobs and Skills Australia
^ The Australian’s 2025 Research Magazine
Professional recognition
Growing public interest in the relationship between diet and health is evident and, as a result, there are increasing demands from the public for reliable and trustworthy information. In response, the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) has developed a ‘Register of Nutritionists’ to establish a list of appropriately qualified nutrition professionals.
As a graduate of this course, you may be eligible for registration as an ‘Associate Nutritionist’. Following three years of relevant work experience, Associate Nutritionists are able to apply for ‘Registered Nutritionist’ status. Registration with NSA does not authorise registrants to obtain provider numbers with Medicare or Private Health Insurers. Please refer to the Nutrition Society of Australia website for further information or queries about registration.
You can find additional careers information about this course here.
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.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Apply advanced and integrated knowledge of nutrition and health to nutrition related health problems. |
| Select and use appropriate modes of communication to obtain and share evidence based nutrition knowledge. |
| Select and use appropriate technologies to analyse and synthesise complex nutrition information and problems, and to interpret and share knowledge, skills and ideas. |
| Critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise complex information and problems in nutrition, to come to well-reasoned conclusions. |
| Apply best practice and evidence to identify problems and generate and evaluate practical solutions to complex nutrition issues. |
| Employ high level personal responsibility, accountability and autonomy to demonstrate expert judgement, adaptability to new situations, effective work practices, and responsibility as a nutritionist. |
| Establish, contribute and maintain a key role in relationships with a range of stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes to advance nutrition sciences. |
| Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates a high level of personal autonomy, within diverse contexts in nutrition sciences. |
Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
#1 university in Australia for nutrition science research. Source: The Australian's 2025 Research Magazine.
