Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2020
You're viewing degree information for International students
You’re considered an International student if you are a citizen of a country other than Australia or New Zealand.
Program Code
IBNF
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
2020: AUD$ 34,800 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
2021: AUD$ 36,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.5]
- IELTS writing [6.5]
- IELTS speaking [6.5]
- IELTS listening [6.5]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
036238C
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Diploma level or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.English language testSee equivalence table for other qualifications and English Language tests accepted by UniSA (PDF)- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.5]
- IELTS writing [6.5]
- IELTS speaking [6.5]
- IELTS listening [6.5]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 4 Canada High School (OSSD) 70 Eynesbury FSP 350 German Abitur 2.7 India (best 4) 65 Kenya KCSE (average) B+ Malaysia STPM (best 3) 7 Malaysia UEC 28 Norway GPA 3.5 Pakistan HSSC 85 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 7 Sweden GPA 14 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 7 Vietnam 8 Australia 75 IB (best 6) 27 USA SAT (1600) 1190 HKDSE 17 Nepal NEB 2.71
Degree overview
- Study both food science and nutrition and then choose to focus on either nutrition or food science.
- Learn from a university that has well-above world standard research in Nutrition and Dietetics.1
- Learn in a dedicated on-campus nutrition and food science hub.
- Benefit from our strong links with the food and nutrition industry.
- Study at the No.1 University in South Australia for graduate careers in Science and Mathematics.2
- Get a taste of what it’s like to work in the food and nutrition industry when you attend field trips to some of the state’s major nutrition and food providers.
- Study a degree that is highly regarded - our graduates are in high demand.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
2ComparED (QILT): Graduate Outcomes Survey 2017-19 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Undergraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.
Snapshot
This degree prepares you for a career in the health and food industry, where you will be involved in developing innovative foods, promoting and managing diets and lifestyles, and conducting research for enhanced wellbeing.
Our on-campus facilities are state-of-the-art, with a dedicated nutrition and food science hub that is home to a $1 million commercial kitchen, sensory laboratory (one of only a few in Australia) and microbiology laboratory.
You will also learn from award-winning academics and get a taste of what it’s like to work in the food and nutrition industry in our community by attending field trips to some of South Australia’s major nutrition and food providers.
What you'll need
Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, child related employment clearance 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
This unique degree offers practice-based and theoretical learning to ensure you are career-ready.
During the first two years you will explore both nutrition and food science topics, gaining a solid understanding of the key elements of each.
You will develop knowledge in:
- biology
- chemistry
- health in our society
- human and lifespan nutrition
- biochemistry
- physiology
- the chemistry of food
- food quality and safety
- relationships between food bioactives, functional foods and medicines
- consumer education
- influences of the senses on consumer food choice.
In the third year you will select either a nutrition or food science stream:
If you choose nutrition, you will focus on:
- developing essential communication skills across a variety of platforms
- developing skills to promote good health through food and nutrition in the community
- developing personalised dietary and exercise plans to manage weight
- nutrition for sports, exercise and activity.
If you choose food science, you will focus on:
- food microbiology
- quality assurance in food processing and manufacturing
- developing safe and nutritionally sound foods for the marketplace
- food and beverage fermentation.
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 and 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
Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- quizzes
- practicals
- reports
- assignments
- examinations
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. Australian and international students may have the option to do an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas. We have links with universities worldwide. 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.
Why Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
The growing awareness of nutrition and food quality as determinants of human wellbeing requires highly competent graduates who can evaluate and communicate the most up-to-date findings in these fields.
We offer some great on-campus learning resources, such as a commercial kitchen, sensory laboratory and microbiology laboratory, located in our dedicated nutrition and food science hub.
The commercial kitchen is where interactive food preparation and cooking activities take place, such as cheese making, adapting recipes to make them nutritionally sound for different life stages, texture modification of foods for the elderly, designing food quality assurance plans (in line with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and food and beverage fermentation (kimchi, sourdough bread, kombucha and beer). Our sensory laboratory is one of only a few in Australia and is an interactive tutorial room where you will complete group work and research on topics including environmental sustainable food practice. Our microbiology laboratory is a space where you will be able to analyse microorganisms and explore key topics like food contamination.
You will also benefit from our strong links with the food and nutrition industry and the community, which will be beneficial as you begin to build important industry relationships and networks.
Your career
In Australia, the nutrition profession is expected to grow very strongly over the next five years, with an expected 5,000 job openings.1
Nutrition and food science experts require an enthusiasm for food and its effect on health. You should also possess a variety of personal skills such as problem-solving attributes, creative thinking and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
As the health, nutrition and wellness industries continue to grow, employment prospects for graduates of this degree are promising.
You may gain employment as a:
- Community nutritionist: create changes in attitude toward nutrition and health; provide advice, guidance and support to the community.
- Health promotion officer: use social and environmental interventions to improve the health of groups and individuals.
- Sports, exercise and fitness nutritionist: responsible for improving the health and optimising the performance of athletes.
- Food Scientist: use chemistry and biology to look at the microbiological, chemical and physical properties of food and ingredients. Analyse nutritional content, discover new food sources, and ensure that the manufacturing process is safe.
- Product development manager: develop new and innovative products to meet strategic business objectives.
- Microbiology specialist: work in food manufacturing or government to research microorganisms in order to prevent disease.
- Food policy advisor: provide health and nutrition advice to the public.
- Food safety advisor: conduct food and safety reviews and monitor procedures to ensure standards are met.
- Quality assurance officer: conducts assurance audits of production facilities to ensure consistent products are developed and to oversee quality, efficiency and production issues. Research scientist: plan and conduct laboratory-based investigations, experiments and trials and analyse results to broaden scientific understanding.
- Food technician: conduct research and assist with experiments on various food products, along with the maintenance and repair of equipment involved in the production process.
- Flavor technologist: sample products and conduct experiments to alter the ingredients in food and beverages to make it taste better, replicate a taste, or develop a new taste.
- Research scientist: design, undertake and inspect issues to provide recommendations across problems or questions related to nutrition and food sciences.
- High School Nutrition teacher (with further study - Master of Teaching (Secondary))
1Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business, 2023 Small Business Projections.
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
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:
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 25% reduction on tuition fees for their first year of study for selected degrees.
Your study experience and support
As a student at the University of South Australia 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, laboratories, and areas 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 have access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, 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 has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages for plenty of options. If you need somewhere to live, our new student accommodation by urbanest is on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, a perfect 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
International Student Services will make your life at university easier. We want you to be successful, and if you need help we will be there to assist. Support services include:
- careers advice
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- services offered through our student association, USASA
- accommodation services
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers. You can work with them face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies. They also offer help with the English language. When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and any other questions you might have.
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.
Your study spaces
As a nutrition and food science student you will have access to:
- Commercial Kitchen
- Sensory laboratory
- Microbiology laboratory
Your program director
In this degree, we have a team of passionate teachers and researchers who strive to provide graduates with expert knowledge and a practical background in nutrition and food sciences. Our graduates are able to enter the workforce with expert knowledge and practical skills to begin their career in this rewarding field.
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How to apply?
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?
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.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
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.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
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.
What others are saying
While studying I attended many industry visits including: Golden North Ice-cream, Ingham’s, National Foods, and The West End Brewery. As well as these industry visits I was able to do a work placement at Rymill Winery in Coonawarra. The experiences were vital for showing us how an actual production plant works and is operated.
Scott Woollett
Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
Employment: Microbiology Specialist, Lion Australia and New Zealand
I chose to study nutrition and food sciences as I wanted to combine my love of food with my interest in health and how food is used to nourish the body.
Rhiannon Dick
Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
While studying I undertook a valuable week-long field trip to Port Augusta, working with Aboriginal communities and school children. We worked with families and children to promote healthy eating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and volunteered for a local community festival.
Sophie Cheesman
Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
Academics, staff and students at UniSA were very supportive. I also benefited from the diverse facilities and practical experience the degree provided, including an 8-week summer scholarship program, where I was exposed to health-orientated research and gained first-hand experience in data collection, entry and analysis.
Weike Zhang
Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
I arrived at UniSA wanting to make a difference back home in Kenya. Whilst studying, I learned that one in four children in Kenya had stunted development because of poor nutrition. This formed the basis of my work with Food for Education, which I founded through community fundraising. Since 2012, the organisation has provided over 120,000 school meals which have contributed to improved nutrition status, school attendance and performance.
Wawira Njiru
Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
Employment: Founder and Executive Director, Food for Education
.jpg "Sophie Cheesman, Nutrition and Food Sciences graduate")