Graduate Diploma in Nutritional Science, University of Canberra

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

12 Months

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About this course

The Graduate Diploma in Nutritional Science at UC provides students with a foundational understanding of human nutrition, human physiology, and biochemistry. It aims to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for examining health within a nutrition framework. The course offers a diverse range of subjects that deepen your understanding of nutrition science, making it suitable for those from broader health science backgrounds or those aiming to meet prerequisites for the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics program. It also serves as an alternative exit pathway for students who start the master's but decide not to complete the full degree due to lifestyle or career changes. Emphasizing evidence-based approaches and critical thinking, this course prepares students to analyze complex health issues related to nutrition and to communicate effectively across various audiences.

Why this course is highly recommended

The course is designed for those seeking a strong scientific background in nutrition, especially if they plan to pursue further studies like the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics. It also offers practical skills in communication, critical thinking, and evidence-based problem-solving, which are valuable in a wide range of health and industry settings. Additionally, students can participate in work integrated learning opportunities, including dietetic placements or research, enhancing their professional readiness.

Specialisation

This course specializes in human nutrition, exploring its social, biochemical, and health-related aspects. It bridges foundational sciences such as biochemistry and physiology with applied nutrition and health sciences, preparing students to understand diet-disease links and improve nutritional interventions.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

18.94L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete this Graduate Diploma, students must pass 24 credit points, including 12 credit points of required courses such as Food Science, Nutrition Across the Lifecycle, Nutrition and Disease, and Nutritional Science. Additionally, students select 12 credit points from a combination of biochemistry, physiology, and health-related units, with options for substitution if undergraduate units have been completed. The course duration is typically one year full-time, with a maximum of four years allowed.

English language test

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

PTE

IELTS

6.5

Career prospects

Graduates from this diploma can pursue careers as nutritionists, health promotion officers, project or research officers, and nutrition consultants. Industry opportunities span fitness, cooking, community health, government, media, NGOs, and nonprofit sectors. The diploma also provides a pathway into higher studies like the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics, which can lead to registration as a dietitian and advanced research opportunities such as a Ph.D.

FAQs

What are the English language requirements?

An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0, or equivalent, is required.

Can I study this course online?

Yes, units are offered via blended delivery (mix of online and on-campus), fully online, or online plus, depending on the unit. All online units do not require on-campus attendance unless specified.