Start date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBHN

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 40,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.5]
  • IELTS reading [6.5]
  • IELTS writing [6.5]
  • IELTS speaking [6.5]
  • IELTS listening [6.5]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
092312M

Degree overview

  • Combine your passion for health and exercise with nutrition, and graduate with two highly complementary qualifications with only one extra year of study.
  • Tailor your degree to your interests and career goals through streams in Health and Physical Education, or Exercise and Sport Science.
  • Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers.1
  • Graduate career ready by engaging with at least 75 hours of practical workplace experience during your studies.
  • Learn in dedicated facilities, such as our exercise physiology clinic, environmental chamber, and dedicated nutrition and food sciences hub.
  • Be taught by world-class teaching staff, including Australia’s leading exercise scientists and physical activity specialists.
  • Choose a university with well above world-class research in human movement and sport science, as well as nutrition and dietetics.2
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,3 we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Human Movement alumni instructing a yoga class

This double degree is for students who want to combine their passion for health and exercise with their interest in nutrition.

Through theoretical and practical learning, you’ll develop a deep understanding of holistic health and how exercise and nutrition directly impact each other. Participating in at least 75 hours of practical experience from an industry placement, you'll graduate ready to improve the nutritional and physical health, fitness and wellbeing of the community.

You'll learn from world-class industry experts in an environment full of opportunities for practical learning, and have the opportunity to complete a work placement with valuable industry experience. You can also tailor your degree to align with your career goals by choosing a primary stream in either Health and Physical Education, or Exercise and Sport Science.

What you'll need

Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or industry placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, a Working with Children Check and immunisation requirements.

Please visit the Clinical Placement Unit for information on key requirements, and to access the full student checklists.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

This double degree offers a strong blend of theoretical, practice-based and industry learning.

During your first year of study, you'll develop a strong foundation in: 

  • physiology
  • health and physical activity
  • nutrition and food sciences
  • chemistry
  • motor development and ageing
  • group and team psychology
  • evidence based practice and research methods

From your second year, you can choose to tailor the human movement component of the degree using the electives to suit your career goals, through primary streams in Health and Physical Education or Exercise and Sport Science.

In addition to studying core subjects in your final years, the stream subjects focus on areas like exercise prescription, exercise delivery, fitness and lifestyle management, and outdoor leadership. Alternatively, you can opt not to study a stream, and instead choose to study a broad range of elective subjects to give you a multi-disciplinary perspective. 

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Physical Activity and Health HLTH 1044 4.5
Physiology Essentials 100 BIOL 1051 4.5
Chemistry 100 CHEM 1006 4.5
Foundations in Human Movement, Exercise and Sports Science HLTH 1039 4.5
OR
Introduction to Nutrition and Food Sciences 1 BIOL 1041 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Group and Team Leadership HLTH 1017 4.5
Motor Development and Ageing HLTH 1065 4.5
Chemistry of Food FOSC 2002 4.5
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences HLTH 1049 4.5
OR
Quantitative Methods in Health MATH 1065 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Anatomy 100 HLTH 1020 4.5
Human Nutrition HLTH 2001 4.5
Exercise Physiology 1 HLTH 2006 4.5
Biology A BIOL 1007 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Biomechanics of Human Movement HLTH 2025 4.5
Food Innovation and Culinary Nutrition FOSC 2007 4.5
Sensory and Consumer Evaluation of Foods FOSC 2004 4.5
Elective 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Motor Control and Learning HLTH 2026 4.5
Biochemistry BIOL 2014 4.5
Microbiology BIOL 2051 4.5
Elective 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Lifespan Physiology BIOL 2052 4.5
Food Safety and Regulation FOSC 2006 4.5
Elective 4.5
Elective 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Communication in Nutrition and Food Sciences FOSC 3014 4.5
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Management HLTH 3001 4.5
Professional Practice in Human Movement HLTH 3085 4.5 Rule(s): 2
Elective 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Sports Nutrition HLTH 3002 4.5
Biochemistry of Human Metabolism BIOL 3035 4.5
Sociology of Health, Physical Activity and Sport HLTH 3055 4.5
Elective 4.5

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • presentations
  • reports
  • quizzes
  • assignments
  • research assignments
  • essays
  • examinations

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Human Movement, Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences

Nutrition and Food Sciences students in the biology lab

World-class teaching staff and state-of-the-art learning facilities make this double degree a great choice to gain expertise in the body's physical and nutritional function.

This unique double degree from UniSA enables students to graduate with two qualifications with only one extra year of study.

UniSA is SA’s No 1. University for human movement and sport science research.1 Our state-of-the-art on-campus facilities, including specialised exercise science laboratories and commercial kitchen, are excellent spaces to develop your practical skills and experience the hands-on nature of the health industry.

You’ll graduate with at least 75 hours of practical experience from an industry placement in the areas of human movement, nutrition, health and physical education, or exercise science.

Graduates are eligible to apply for professional membership with the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology (AIFST) and can start their registration pathway towards becoming a Registered Nutritionist (RNutr) with the Nutrition Society of Australia.

1The only university in SA to have all its assessed Human Movement and Sports Science research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Real-world connections

UniSA has strong alliances with industry, ranging from elite and local sporting clubs to not-for-profit organisations.

You'll complete an industry placement as part of your study, further enhancing your industry networks and relationships. Our industry placement providers include elite and community sports clubs, public and private schools, gyms and fitness centres, aged care, local councils and not-for-profit organisations.

We also host regular University-wide alumni events, employee master classes and employment expos in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

As the health, nutrition, exercise and wellness industries continue to grow, employment prospects for graduates are promising.

Depending on your chosen stream, you may gain employment as a:

  • Human movement practitioner: engage a broad population of people and groups throughout the lifespan to be more physically active using a broad range of modalities for health, fitness and wellbeing.
  • Sports and fitness nutritionist: optimise the health and performance of athletes.
  • Community nutritionist: create changes in attitude toward nutrition and health; plan and co-ordinate nutrition programs; provide advice, guidance and support to the community.
  • Health promotion officer: plan and coordinate health promotion programs for various community groups.
  • Nutrition and food policy advisor: provide health and nutrition advice to the public.
  • Community and allied health worker: support and assist the work of allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists and dietitians.
  • Health and wellbeing nutrition advisor: create nutrition plans, advise on dietary habits and monitor a client’s progress.
  • Sport development officer: coordinate club and athlete participation in sports programs, as well as improving the performance of individuals and teams.
  • Researcher: plan and conduct laboratory-based investigations, experiments and trials; and analyse results to broaden scientific understanding.


You'll be able to apply for official registration with the Nutrition Society of Australia as an Associate Nutritionist (ANutr), leading to become a Registered Nutritionist (RNutr), typically after three years of experience.

Students in the Health and Physical Education stream can continue their studies with the Master of Teaching (Secondary), leading to teach Health and Physical Education and Nutrition (up to Year 12) and Junior Science (up to Year 10). For more information on the subjects you'll be able to teach, visit our Health and & Physical Education (H&PE) teaching page.

Students in the Exercise and Sport Science stream are eligible to apply for accreditation and registration as an Accredited Exercise Scientist through Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA), as long as you have completed the required hours of practical experience.

Professional accreditation and recognition

Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for professional membership of the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology (AIFST).

Graduates of the program are initially eligible to apply to the Nutrition Society of Australia for registration as an Associate Nutritionist (ANutr), leading to Registered Nutritionist (RNutr), usually after three years of experience.

Industry facts

chart-people

Employment for sports coaches, instructors and officials is projected to increase by 9.8% by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

job-listings

Employment for nutrition professionals is projected to increase by 7.2% by November 2026

Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2020

column-chart-growth

To November 2026, healthcare and social assistance is projected to make the largest contribution to employment growth in Australia – an increase of 301,000 jobs.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian

There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

 

International

There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Health Science

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

Anatomy laboratory.jpg

You’ll have access to UniSA’s comprehensive sports facilities, including:

  • Exercise Physiology clinics
  • environmental chamber
  • exercise physiology
  • laboratory
  • biomechanics laboratory
  • UniSA Sport gyms
  • sensory laboratory
  • microbiology laboratory
  • physiology laboratory
  • chemistry laboratory
  • commercial kitchen
  • anatomy laboratory
  • human performance and resistance training laboratory

From 2025, students in our Human Movement, Exercise and Sport Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology programs will benefit from an integrated practical learning experience with the South Australian Sports Institute (SASI). You can study alongside elite athletes and leading industry experts, and learn how to use the latest equipment and sport science technology in new, purpose-built facilities.

You’ll also have access to a range of on-campus spaces including modern lecture theatres, collaborative teaching rooms and relaxed student lounges.

Your program director

As program director I am responsible for the provision of academic leadership in the planning, management, development, improvement, quality assurance and growth of the suite of human movement degrees. I head a team of outstanding teachers and researchers who educate highly capable graduates who can engage in a wide range of industry and community settings, and can meaningfully contribute to a healthier and more just society.

Mr Scott Adams

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Mr Scott Adams
Portrait image for Mr Scott Adams

Mr Scott Adams

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

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