Program Overview

Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Nutrition)

Overview

Gain an in-depth understanding of nutrition and the dietary influences that impact on the health of individuals. During this three-year degree, you'll study theory and develop the practical skills needed for working in the area of human nutrition.

What Will I Study

• Metabolic processes and how nutrients in food affect the human body
• Application of nutritional science to enhance the health of community groups
• Effects of major nutrition-related factors on non-communicable diseases that impact on the health of nations
• Identification of reliable sources of up-to-date nutritional information
• Communication of nutrition principles in a range of contexts using awareness of psychological, cultural, and environmental influences on eating behavior
• Genetics, physiology, culture, environment, and social issues that assist in the management of body composition and nutrition choices

Pathway

Work placements with governmental and non-governmental health promotion organizations, nutrition education programs, nutrition consultancies, community initiatives, workplace wellbeing programs, and school holiday programs will give you real-world experience and ensure you're work-ready when you graduate.

Details

• Type: Degree
• Code: CH3981
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• Credits: 360
• Level: 7
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• Available Part-time: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: CH3981-NUTR

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $7,850 - $8,770 per year
• International Fee: $26,000 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year

Academic Requirements

• New Zealand University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include:
  • 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
    • Biology or Human Biology or Physical Education
    • another subject, preferably Core Health/Health Education, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geography, and Psychology
  • Human Nutrition specialization applicants must have a minimum of 14 credits in Chemistry at Lvl 2 or equivalent
  • One other subject from the list of approved subjects*
  • Literacy - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing
  • Numeracy/Maths - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
• OR New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
• OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Pre Health Pathway or equivalent

Additional Requirements

• Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports (these forms should not be from a friend or relative)
• Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on their placement

English Requirements

• Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
  • 5.5 Listening
  • 5.5 Reading
  • 5.5 Writing
  • 5.5 Speaking

Career Opportunities

Nutritionists can work as consultants for individuals, sports teams, or workplaces; in community-based health promotion programs; in government to provide policy advice; in public health, food industry, and research; or as food writers for media and marketing. As a graduate of this program, you'll have a solid scientific base with critical thinking and communication skills that can be transferred to other scientific areas.

Study Pathways

Graduates of this program can apply for postgraduate study in the fields of nutrition, dietetics, public health, and other related disciplines. They can also complete a graduate teaching qualification to teach in primary and secondary schools.

Recommended School Subjects

• English
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Science
• Food and Nutrition

Core Courses

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Chemistry for Applied Science
• Professional Communication
• Health and Fitness Assessment
• People, Food and Environment
• Health Promotion 1
• Introduction to Nutrition
• Lifestyle and Health
• Professional Development for Industry
• Sports Psychology 1
• Child and Adolescent Development and Health
• Business Functions
• Nga Whakatakoto o Te Reo, Rima: Maori Language and Culture

Elective Courses

• Level 5:
  • Event Planning and Management
  • Global Challenges; Sustainable Futures
  • Health, Safety and Wellbeing Leadership
  • Principles of Leadership
  • Project Management
  • Exercise and Health Psychology
  • Health Promotion 2
  • Macronutrients and Health
  • Micronutrients and Health
  • Nutrition Psychology
  • Professional Practice
  • Research Design and Statistics
  • Nutrition Management
  • Industry Practicum 1
  • Exercise Prescription and Programming
  • Wanaka Hauora
• Level 6:
  • Applied Nutrition
  • Clinical Skills in Nutrition
  • Health Promotion 3
  • Nutrition and Disease
  • Phytonutrients and Health
  • Population Nutrition
  • Industry Project in Applied Science
  • Industry Practicum 2

Funding Assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.