Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Entry is based on a bachelor qualification or above in any discipline (or overseas equivalent), or a UNE Graduate Certificate in Nutrition and Health Science.
Entry is based on a bachelor qualification or above in any discipline (or overseas equivalent), or a UNE Graduate Certificate in Nutrition and Health Science. English language requirements must also be met.
- 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
| Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2026 | Trimester 2 – June 2026 | Trimester 3 – October 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
| Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
| Armidale Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
| Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochure
Enter the evolving field of nutrition and health with the Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Health Science. As chronic disease, food insecurity and lifestyle-related health challenges continue to rise, there's a growing demand for professionals who can apply nutrition science in meaningful, practical ways.
This course offers a rigorous foundation in human nutrition, dietary assessment and public health practice. You’ll build your understanding of metabolism, nutrient function and disease prevention while developing professional skills to support healthier communities across clinical, educational and industry settings.
Why study the Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Health Science at UNE?
When you choose UNE’s Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Health Science, you’re choosing a flexible, multidisciplinary program designed to equip you with the scientific and practical expertise to contribute meaningfully to nutrition and health outcomes.
Whether you're seeking to enhance your career in public health, food education or wellness practice, this course gives you the knowledge, tools and confidence to lead in a growing field. You’ll learn from experienced academics, collaborate across disciplines, and engage with research-informed practice throughout your studies.
UNE is consistently awarded 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support by The Good Universities Guide – recognition that reflects our commitment to providing quality teaching and personalised learning support throughout your study.
What makes our course different?
UNE’s Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Health Science is built to support your success, whether you're transitioning into the nutrition field or expanding your existing expertise. You’ll benefit from a professionally relevant curriculum, research-informed teaching, and the freedom to study your way. Here’s how we set ourselves apart:
- Applied nutrition science for real-world impact. Develop practical expertise in evidence-based dietary assessment, nutritional biochemistry and public health nutrition to improve wellbeing in clinical, community and food system settings.
- Flexible and accessible study that supports your lifestyle. Offered fully online as well as on campus, this course allows you to study from anywhere and manage your schedule around work and life commitments.
- Multidisciplinary expertise from across health, science and sustainability. Learn from experts in nutrition, biomedical science and agricultural systems, gaining a well-rounded perspective that enhances your career options.
- Professional capabilities aligned with industry demand. Build skills in communication, critical analysis and research that are valued across government, education, non-profit and commercial sectors.
Please note: This course can be commenced full-time or part-time in Trimesters 1 and 3, and part-time only in Trimester 2.
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
This course is not currently available for this mode of study.
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules.
Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification or above (AQF Level 7, 8 or 9 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study)
Rule B: You have completed a UNE Graduate Certificate in Nutrition and Health Science.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 24 credit points of Specified Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing.
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules.
Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification or above (AQF Level 7, 8 or 9 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a UNE Graduate Certificate in Nutrition and Health Science.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 24 credit points of Specified Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 24 credit points of Advanced Standing.
Course structure
To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 48 credit points.
48 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points the following units;- Introductory Molecular Biology and Biochemistry I (BCHM410) – 6 credit points
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism (NUTR320) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to Human Nutrition (NUTR410) – 6 credit points
- Understanding Food from Field to Function I (NUTR521) – 6 credit points
- Understanding Food from Field to Function II (NUTR530) – 6 credit points
- Human Physiology (PSIO411) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points from the following units;- Introductory Biochemistry II (BCHM420) – 6 credit points
- Biological and Organic Chemistry (CHEM404) – 6 credit points
- Medicinal Chemistry (CHEM503) – 6 credit points
- Horticultural Science and Management (HORT420) – 6 credit points
- Molecular Laboratory Skills for Life Sciences (LSK420) – 6 credit points
- Integrated Physiology Skills (LSK440) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Microbiology (MICR220) – 6 credit points
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology (MICR550) – 6 credit points
- Nutrition in Health and Disease (NUTR511) – 6 credit points
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism (NUTR320) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
24 credit points
Candidates admitted under Rule (b) shall be granted advanced standing for NUTR410 and 18 credit points of Listed Units as specified in the Graduate Certificate in Nutrition and Health Science.24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points form the following units:- Introductory Molecular Biology and Biochemistry I (BCHM410) – 6 credit points
- Biological and Organic Chemistry (CHEM404) – 6 credit points
- Medicinal Chemistry (CHEM503) – 6 credit points
- Horticultural Science and Management (HORT420) – 6 credit points
- Molecular Laboratory Skills for Life Sciences (LSK420) – 6 credit points
- Integrated Physiology Skills (LSK440) – 6 credit points
- Introductory Microbiology (MICR220) – 6 credit points
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology (MICR550) – 6 credit points
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism (NUTR320) – 6 credit points
- Nutrition in Health and Disease (NUTR511) – 6 credit points
- Understanding Food from Field to Function I (NUTR521) – 6 credit points
- Understanding Food from Field to Function II (NUTR530) – 6 credit points
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism (NUTR320) – 6 credit points
- Human Physiology (PSIO411) – 6 credit points
See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
Understanding Your Course Fees
Your total course fees are based on the number of units you complete, not the length of time you study. This gives you flexibility to tailor your study journey to suit your circumstances.
Here's how it works:
- Unit-based pricing - Each unit has its own fee. Visit our Fees and Costs section for detailed unit pricing information
- Advanced standing - If you're eligible for credit for previous study, you'll complete fewer units and pay less overall
- Study pace - Choose part-time or full-time study to fit your schedule without affecting unit costs
- Trimester 3 option - Students who choose to accelerate their progress by studying during Trimester 3 can do so without increasing overall costs
The table below shows estimated fees for a typical full-time year of study (48 credit points which typically equates to 8 units)
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
| Fee type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Full Fee (no government subsidy) | $24,912* |
| International | $35,808* |
| Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply) | $9,504* |
| Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $373 |
* Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2025. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Nutrition and Health Science will be well-positioned for diverse career opportunities across public health, food industry, research institutions, and community organisations. They can pursue roles as nutritionists in healthcare settings, nutrition educators in schools and community programs, food safety specialists, product development scientists in the food industry, or health promotion officers in government agencies. With nutrition-related employment projected to grow by 7% through 2032, graduates will enter a dynamic field with emerging opportunities in personalised nutrition, digital health platforms, and sustainable food systems, where they can make meaningful contributions to improving population health outcomes.
Course outcomes
- demonstrate advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in nutrition and health science;
- apply specialised analytical skills to evaluate complex nutrition challenges and develop evidence-based solutions;
- communicate nutrition science concepts effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences;
- integrate ethical principles and cultural considerations into nutrition practice and decision-making; and
- employ advanced information literacy skills to critically evaluate scientific literature and nutrition claims.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Graduates will understand ways of scientific thinking and the nature of nutrition science as a broad discipline. They will also have specialised knowledge in nutrition science and be able to articulate, aspects of the place and importance of, nutrition science in the local and global community.
- Communication Skills
Graduates will be able to communicate scientific results, information or arguments to a range of audiences and for a range of purposes, specialising on nutrition science and its importance for health.
- Problem Solving
Graduates will understand ways of scientific thinking and the nature of nutrition science as a broad discipline. They will also have specialised knowledge in nutrition science and be able to articulate, aspects of the place and importance of, nutrition science in the local and global community.
- Information Literacy
Graduates will be able to communicate nutrition information to a range of audiences and for a range of purposes. They will also be able to synthesize and evaluate information from a range of sources, using a range of technologies.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Graduates will be able to take social responsibility by recognising the relevant ethical frameworks within nutrition science is practised and show a capacity for working responsibly and safely in both individual and team environments.
- Lifelong Learning
Graduates will be able to take personal responsibility for lifelong learning by demonstrating a capacity for self-directed learning.
- Independence and Collaboration
Elements of each unit in the program of study require students to work independently. The units in this program, with a practical component, require collaboration as students work in teams.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026 Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026 Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate) Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025 Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
Stay connected
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- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
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Why study with us?
The most enjoyable part of my studies is the sense of achievement and being part of something bigger than myself.
Why study with us?
UNE provides an excellent learning experience, and a wide range of social and student services. It is a perfect place to experience diverse culture, seasons and lifestyle!
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
| Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | 24 February 2026 | 23 February 2026 |
| Trimester 2 | 23 June 2026 | 22 June 2026 |
| Trimester 3 | 9 October 2026 | 19 October 2026 |
