Study Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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International students

Start date
February

Campus
City East

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBNF

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
2020: AUD$ 34,800 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]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
036238C

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

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English 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 test

IELTS total [6.5]
IELTS reading [6.5]
IELTS writing [6.5]
IELTS speaking [6.5]
IELTS listening [6.5]

See equivalence table for other qualifications and English Language tests accepted by UniSA (PDF)

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

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

Study both food science and nutrition and then choose to specialise in either nutrition or food science.
Learn from a University that has well-above world standard research in Nutrition and Dietetics¹.
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 careers and teaching quality in Science and Mathematics².
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).
²QILT: Graduate Outcomes Survey Course Experience Questionnaire 2016-18 – Full-time Employment and Teaching Quality Indicators (Undergraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.

Snapshot

Nutrition and Food Sciences students in the biology lab

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
relationship between food bioactives, functional foods and medicines
consumer education
influence of the senses on consumer food choice

In the third year you will choose to focus on either nutrition or food science.

If you choose to specialise in 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 to specialise in 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

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Chemistry 100	CHEM 1006	4.5
Introduction to Nutrition and Food Sciences 1	BIOL 1041	4.5
Health and Society	HLTH 1025	4.5
Biology A	BIOL 1007	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Chemistry 101	CHEM 1007	4.5
Statistics for Laboratory Sciences	MATH 1040	4.5
Biology B	BIOL 1012	4.5
Introduction to Nutrition and Food Sciences 2	BIOL 1055	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Microbiology	BIOL 2051	4.5
Biochemistry	BIOL 2014	4.5
Physiology	BIOL 2035	4.5
Human Nutrition	HLTH 2001	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
The Chemistry of Food	FOSC 2002	4.5
Food Safety and Regulation	FOSC 2006	4.5
Lifespan Physiology	BIOL 2052	4.5
Sensory and Consumer Evaluation of Foods	FOSC 2004	4.5
THIRD YEAR - FOOD SCIENCE STREAM
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Food Microbiology and Quality Assurance	FOSC 3018	4.5
Food Processing and Manufacturing	FOSC 3002	4.5
Product Development and Food Analysis	FOSC 3009	4.5
Elective 1		4.5	Note(s): 3	Rule(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Molecular Food Microbiology	FOSC 3015	4.5
Functional Foods, Nutraceuticals and Medicines	FOSC 3013	4.5
Elective 2		4.5		Rule(s): 2
PLUS one course (4.5 units) chosen from the following:
Capstone in Nutrition, Food Sciences	FOSC 3016	4.5
Medical Biochemistry	BIOL 3035	4.5	Note(s): 4
THIRD YEAR - NUTRITION STREAM
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Community Nutrition Promotion	FOSC 3019	4.5
Nutrition Communication and Food Studies	FOSC 3014	4.5
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Management	HLTH 3001	4.5	Note(s): 2
Elective 1		4.5		Rule(s): 2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Functional Foods, Nutraceuticals and Medicines	FOSC 3013	4.5
Elective 2		4.5		Rule(s): 2
PLUS two courses (9 units) chosen from the following:
Capstone in Nutrition, Food Sciences	FOSC 3016	4.5
Sports Nutrition	HLTH 3002	4.5	Note(s): 2
Designing and Managing Health Projects	HLTH 2023	4.5
Medical Biochemistry	BIOL 3035	4.5	Note(s): 4

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
To fulfil the University requirements of the indigenous component in undergraduate programs, students are required to select one of the following courses:
Contemporary Aboriginal Issues	HUMS 1034	4.5
Aboriginal Cultures	HUMS 1035	4.5
Aboriginal Voices in Film and Fiction	LANG 2007	4.5
Cultural Perspectives on Health	NURS 1036	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. All students in the Division of Health Sciences who, as part of their program, undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required, such as in field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate that they have a current National Police Certificate (NPC) through SAPOL (or their home state police service) and a current Department for Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI) Child-Related Clearance or a Working With Children Check (WWCC) from 1 July 2019, which is valid for the duration of the program. The National Police Certificate will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent clinical placement involvement. The University has a process for reviewing these outcomes to assess suitability for placement.

2. Electives are free electives chosen by the student.

Notes

1. Students who have successfully completed a Diploma in Food Technology at TAFE may be granted up to 36 units of credit towards the Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences. Credit applications will be individually assessed by the Program Director.

2. Students who are considering further studies in Dietetics and are currently in the Food Sciences stream, should note that as a pre-requisite for a Dietetics program they will need to choose one of these courses as a university elective.

3. Students who are considering further studies in Dietetics must successfully complete a nutrition course for one of their electives.

4. Students who are considering further studies in Dietetics must successfully complete this course.

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

Nutrition and food science hub with a sensory laboratory

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.

Real-world connections

You will be required to attend field trips to some of the state’s major nutrition and food providers as part of your studies – this experience in the food and nutrition world is a great opportunity for you to build industry relationships. You will visit organisations like manufacturers of spreads and dips, beer and wine, as well as Australian native food bush tucker farms, and aged care facilities, focusing on food safety and food modifications for the elderly.

In your final year you will gain additional experience by completing an industry placement in Food Science or Nutrition as part of the capstone subject.

We also have strong industry links with the food industry locally and nationally, which can provide you with another valuable networking opportunity.

In addition, we host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

In Australia, growth in the nutrition profession is expected to grow very strongly over the next 5 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.
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

Employment for nutrition professionals in Australia is projected to increase by 17.6 per cent by May 2023.¹

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2018

To May 2023, healthcare and social assistance is projected to make the largest contribution to employment growth in Australia – an increase of 250,300 jobs.¹

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2018

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.¹

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2018

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

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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

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.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 25% reduction on tuition fees for their first year of study for selected degrees.

Learn more

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 campus

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

Your study spaces

Rhiannon Dick, Nutrition and Food Sciences student in sensory laboratory

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.

Dr Evangeline Mantzioris

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Evangeline Mantzioris

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

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.
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.
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.

More FAQs

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

Scott Woollett

Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
<br />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