Nutritionists help translate nutrition science to the lay public and advise the community about good food choices for healthy eating. To do this, nutritionists consider the nutritive value of foods, the nutrients bodies need at different stages of development, and the role nutrients and diet play in health promotion and disease prevention.
Nutritionists also work in research: for example, developing new food products, or examining the relationships between nutrients or dietary patterns and disease. However, they do not help treat disease through nutrition - this is the role of dietitians. This course aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of human nutrition, as preparation for careers in various fields related to the promotion of health and nutrition at individual and community levels.
Graduates will have a thorough understanding of food and human nutrition, as preparation for careers in various fields related to the promotion of health at individual and community levels. Graduates may work as advisers to the food industry, sports clubs, government, research, non-government organisations and the biotechnology and health education industries.
Start dates: Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)See additional information
Duration: 2 years2 years full-time, or the equivalent part-time
Dietitian versus nutritionist?
The difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist
In Australia, there is a distinction between the occupations of dietitian and nutritionist and only those who have completed a recognised course in dietetics can be employed as a dietitian.
Nutrition science involves the role of nutrients in growth, development, health and well-being in humans and animals. Nutritionists apply their knowledge of nutrition science and other sciences such as physiology and biochemistry to promote health and well-being.
A dietitian is also considered a nutritionist because they have studied human nutrition. In addition, dietitians complete specialised studies and supervised professional placements in clinical nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, evidence-based practice, food service management and community and public health nutrition. These studies qualify a dietitian to assess nutritional status, make nutritional diagnoses, and implement and monitor nutrition management plans.