Bachelor of Nutrition

This subject provides students with the knowledge and understanding of health promotion concepts within various settings within Australia. Students are introduced to the key theories and concepts regarding behavioral changes as it relates to health status. This subject provides student with the opportunity to integrate their counselling and nutrition knowledge to devise and assess health promotion intervention’s.

Pre-requisite: HWEL2002A - Understanding Health 

Assessment Tasks: Quiz, Report 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Food Science, Systems and Policy (NUTR2004A) examines the way in which food is produced, processed and distributed in Australia and globally. It provides students with an understanding of current practices and trends in primary production and food manufacturing and distribution. It also examines the laws governing food for sale and the politics of the food system and how these impact on public health initiatives as they relate to food security, sustainability and food deserts.

This subject has an option of participation in 20 hours of Voluntary Work Experience in a health-related business.

Assessment Tasks: Test, Report 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Chemistry for the Health Professions builds on the essential topics in chemistry covered in Biological Foundations. This subject expands on atomic theory and explores equilibrium and gas laws. These concepts will provide the foundation for understanding chemical processes which will be explored including buffers, equilibrium, radioactivity and chemical kinetics relevant to health. This subject also examines the physiology of taste and smell and their relationship with aroma and flavor. It also investigates the composition and function of the chemicals in food, enabling students to describe the impacts of radiation, oxidation and other chemical processes on food integrity and health. This will include a comparison of key chemical analysis and microbiological testing methods that are used to quantify chemical & microbiological components to maintain food safety and review of how these align to the food standards. Chemistry for the Health Professions concludes with acquiring a deeper knowledge of gene expression & regulation and an exploration of the chemistry of epigenetics.

Pre-requisite: BFD105A Biological Foundations 

Assessment Tasks: Online Test, Report, Simulated Laboratory Activity

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online, Intensive

This subject provides students with specific foundational knowledge for understanding the ‘Gap’ in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health; and provides key resources to support culturally safe and accessible care that is also responsive to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Following a chronological approach, this subject provides students with an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health from pre-colonisation to the present. Along this continuum, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health issues are examined in terms of their historical, political and policy origins, the antagonism between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and colonialist values, how historically determined power relations between healthcare professionals and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have impacted their health, and demographic and socioeconomic trends.

Students will examine pre-colonialism; postcolonialism; colonial history and explain its impact on health. This includes the impact on health-related politics and policy, culture, family and connection to country. Students will analyse the factors influencing health care access and explain the importance of health promotion, health care and trauma informed care that is evidence based and culturally sensitive.

Students will then apply health promotion and health care best practices, and critical reflection for the safe and effective delivery of health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Additionally, students will incorporate cultural awareness and knowledge of cultural safety to improve interprofessional health practice, health statistics and advocate for improved health outcomes, whilst empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Pre-requisite:

Bachelor of Community Services BCOMM22 – HWEL2002A Understanding health,

Bachelor of Counselling BCOUN22 – HHSCSD102 Person-centred practice,

Bachelor of Psychological Science - HCCSSD104 Lifespan Development

Assessment Tasks: Test, Report, Reflection

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Human Biochemistry explains the processes of macromolecule metabolism, energy production and storage in the body. Included in this subject are the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids; the role of ATP and acetyl CoA in metabolism; oxidative phosphorylation, the electron transport chain, biosignaling and chemical communication. The concept of gene expression and regulation is also explored. Human Biochemistry provides healthcare practitioners a vital foundation on the basic macromolecules and genetic understandings essential for life. This knowledge will be built upon and expanded further in later subjects.

Pre-requisite: BFD105A - Human Biochemistry 

Assessment Tasks: Test, Presentation 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Human Systems & Pathophysiology 1 is the first of two subjects that builds upon the foundational studies in Human Structure & Physiology and then expands student’s skills and knowledge into the area of pathophysiology and human disease process. Understanding the pathogenic process and the disruption of homeostasis in relation to disease will be important concepts, in the context of individual, community and population health.

This subject will cover:

• Basic pathological processes in response to injury and growth abnormalities.
• Immunology, toxicology, microbiology, and their characteristic diseases.
• Pathophysiology, symptomatology and clinical manifestations for diseases of the gastrointestinal, neurological and cardiovascular systems.
• Introduction to commonly used laboratory tests and interpretation of findings.

Pre-requisite: HSP102A - Human Structure & Physiology 2

Assessment Tasks: Test, Information Sheets

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Human Systems & Pathophysiology 2 builds upon the concepts explored in Human Systems & Pathophysiology 1 and continues to expand student’s skills and knowledge in pathophysiology and the human disease process, in relation to individual, community and public health. The pathophysiology and symptomatology will be covered for various disease states of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, hematologic, pulmonary, endocrine, renal and reproductive systems. Conditions specific to gerontology and aging will also be considered.

General diagnostic approaches will be introduced and the commonly used laboratory tests and interpretation of such findings for the associated disorders and conditions will continue to be developed.

Pre-requisite: HSP201- Human Systems & Pathophysiology 1 

Assessment Tasks: Test, Mind Map, Report

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Nutritional Biochemistry & Human Metabolism (SCIE2006A) builds on concepts developed in human biochemistry and the foundations of nutritional science. The biochemical structure and function of macro and micronutrients and biochemical mechanisms associated with digestion, absorption, transport and storage are examined. The integration of biochemical mechanisms of nutrients with disease pathophysiology is explored. This subject also provides an in depth understanding of the microbiome, biological oxidation, inflammation, antioxidants, liver detoxification and neurotransmitter synthesis. Students will learn about nutritional genomics and epigenetics and how they relate to professional practice. The clinical relevance and importance of nutritional biochemistry for the nutritional management of major diseases is also emphasised.

Pre-requisite:

Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition): HBC205 Human Biochemistry
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy): HBC205 Human Biochemistry
Bachelor of Nutrition:

• HBC205 Human Biochemistry (2019 Offering)
• NUTR2002 Human Nutrition 2 (2016 Offering)

Assessment Tasks: Test, Information Sheet, Presentation 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

This subject examines a variety of methods to measure food, nutrition and physical activity levels against reference standards at the individual and population level. Students will develop practical skills on how to measure dietary intake, energy expenditure and body composition as well as utilising nutrition screening tools to assess nutritional status. Students will explore the application of anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, dietary and environmental/economic assessment tools, inclusive of their strengths and limitations. Students will critically analyse and interpret dietary, physical activity and anthropometric survey data, as well as identify appropriate methods based on precision, reliability, validation and reproducibility.

Co-requisite: NUTR2006A Diet and Disease

Assessment Tasks: Test, Report, Discussion Forum 

Delivery Mode: Online

In this subject, students will explore the relationship between dietary behaviours and chronic disease prevention, with a focus on population health. The role of diet in disease prevention across the lifespan and in vulnerable communities will be examined and students will also be introduced to the foundational principles of public health nutrition practice. Students will learn how to identify, analyse and translate dietary research from a public health perspective, then gain a practical understanding as to how this research is applied equitably to community and population health within nutrition-based public health programs and interventions.

Pre-requisite: NUTR2005A Lifespan Nutrition, HSP2020A Human Systems and Pathophysiology 2

Assessment Tasks: Research, Report, Workbook 

Delivery Mode: Online

Relevant, accessible, effective and equitable health programs that consistently deliver high quality outcomes are the cornerstone of public health service delivery. Public health program development and implementation skills covered in this course include needs assessment, setting health priorities, development of program objectives, conducting a risk analysis and consulting with relevant stakeholders and developing options, monitoring implementation, financial management and working to deadlines. The subject also provides an introduction to evaluating public health programs, including formative, process, outcome, and impact evaluations and the importance of disseminating findings to further contribute to the development of successful public health programs and initiatives.

Assessment Tasks: Report, Presentation 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

In this subject, students will build on their understanding of public health and health promotion by applying the theories, principles and frameworks to public health nutrition and health promotion in their own community. Students will learn how these principles, theories and frameworks are applied to public health nutrition interventions at a local, national and global level.

Ethical issues around food consumption, health and public health nutrition will be explored, with particular reference to the social and environmental determinants of health such as current and future food systems. Students will critically evaluate a range of health and nutrition interventions or programs in their own community, then assess and describe the value added to the community by these interventions. Lastly, students will gain important interpersonal skills required to work in the community such as networking, relationship building, leadership and communication.

Pre-requisite: PUBH2007: Public Health Program Development, Implementation and Evaluation

Assessment Tasks: Report, Proposal

Delivery Mode: Online

This subject explores the philosophy and principles of health education and communication in a variety of settings. Students will gain practical skills in communicating in a culturally sensitive, ethical and professional manner using appropriate resources, technologies and techniques to translate scientific concepts and evidence-based information to a target audience. Students will apply health behavioural theories and health promotion strategies to advocate for improved health outcomes that are equitable and sustainable.

Pre-requisite: NUTR2006A Diet and Disease 

Assessment Tasks: Blog, Communication Plan, Demonstration Health Intervention, Report 

Delivery Mode: Online

This subject will provide you with an opportunity to undertake a community nutrition project within a special population group. The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component will enable you to apply your understanding of theoretical public health nutrition practice at a community level through an industry related experience which will incorporate the design, delivery and evaluation of a public health nutrition program.

Pre-requisite: NUTR2007A  Public Health Nutrition 

Assessment Tasks: Project Plan, Presentation, Report 

Delivery Mode: Online

This subject is designed for those who are passionate about making changes at a population health level, which operates within a complex system where economic, political, social or cultural factors must be considered. You will build upon your knowledge about what health policies are and why they are important. This subject will deepen your knowledge relating to the policy process, how government works and how policy decisions are made and implemented from a theoretical perspective and applied to real world examples and different work environments.

Within the context of the health policy environment, you will critique contemporary health policies and approaches, then interpret strategies designed to improve the health and wellbeing of the Australian population. You will also develop a range of skills to formulate best practice strategies in contemporary health policy with the aim of bring about change at a local, state and federal level. In addition, you will learn about current activism in Australia on specific health issues with a view to be able to advocate for vulnerable and/or marginalised population groups at all levels of policy development and application.

This subject introduces students to population health patterns, epidemiology, social determinants of health, and health systems and political policies in a manner that allows them to ask questions of data, ethical issues with data, draw out points of significance, and present data in different ways to different audiences. An inquiry-based approach to learning underpins this subject.

Assessment Tasks: Discussion Forum, Test, Critical Review of a Published Study 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

In this subject students will develop their understanding of disease processes and review evidence-based strategies to reduce the risk of disease and maintain health. Students will develop knowledge to apply educational and environmental interventions based upon risk factors associated with the development and chronicity of disease.

Assessment Tasks: Quiz, Case Study 

Delivery Mode: Online

In this subject, students will learn about the role of optimal nutrition for elite and recreational athletes in a variety of sporting contexts. Students will gain knowledge in nutrition requirements including fuel and fluids for exercise participation, training, competition and recovery within sports, life stages and population groups. Students will analyse the efficacy and potential risks of nutritional supplements and sports foods used for performance enhancement. This subject will also cover dietary assessment and body composition as well as nutritional recommendations to improve and sustain optimal performance for sporting groups.

Pre-requisite: NUTR2005A Lifespan Nutrition

Assessment Tasks: Online test, report

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online, Intensive

Digital competence is an essential part of employability in the health and well-being sector in the 21st Century. Health informatics is the use of computer technologies and communication systems to store, transmit or analyse health information. E-Health and information and communication technologies (ICT) are all widely used by Australian health professionals. Students in this subject will develop their own digital fluency and learn about the role of ICT in health.

The subject introduces: the current and emerging range of health care technologies and data science, the role of telehealth, m-health (health applications for mobile phones), wearable technology, social media and the internet of things. The use of health informatics, such as telemedicine in rural communities and developing countries, and managing and monitoring information technology operations, is covered. Students will also discuss the legal and ethical issues of using of these technologies in their practice as health professionals. These developing techniques are considered in the context of inter-professional communication, and also within a global perspective. In addition, legal and ethical issues and strategies for managing privacy and security of consumer data are explored.

This subject allows students to create, and manage, an ethical and professionally appropriate online presence; and use basic multimedia elements to enhance the presentation of information.

Assessment Tasks: Blog, Report, Presentation

Delivery Mode:Online

Critical Literature Review (CLR308) provides an opportunity to critically examine the current literature to answer a chosen research question to inform clinical decision-making. The literature review is a scholarly paper that appraises the current knowledge base highlighting strengths, weaknesses and omissions in the literature. The subject builds on established knowledge of literature search methods and critical appraisal skills to culminate in a review that conforms to publication standards.

Pre-requisite: EBP107 Evidence-based Practice

Assessment Tasks: Research Report

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online

Entrepreneurship, Professionalism & Business Skills in Health will introduce students to the concepts of small business management, entrepreneurship and how to identify the professional requirements of their healthcare discipline. This subject will explore the topics necessary to establish and run a successful healthcare practice and maintain their professional status in the healthcare sector. Students will also explore their professional identity to support the understanding of the ethical conduct, liability, legal and regulatory requirements that are pertinent to their specific modality.

This subject will initiate the development of a business plan using entrepreneurial practices and innovative design thinking. This will include exploring business strategies such as operating policy and procedures, marketing and branding, networking strategies, leadership, administration and financial issues necessary for the operation and management of a contemporary healthcare practice.

Pre-requisite: BHS ( Clinical Myotherapy) CMY303A Clinical Practicum 1

Assessment Tasks: Business plan portfolio, report, presentation

Delivery Mode: On Campus, online

Food as Medicine (FAM203A) introduces students to the concept that food can be used as a form of medicine to promote health and wellbeing and treat and prevent disease. This subject provides an overview of farming practices, food preparation, cooking, and storage methods, as well as food manufacturing and processing techniques and their impacts on the nutritional value of foods. Students will investigate nutritional food-based science including the health effects of food additives, food safety and phytochemical toxicity. An in-depth study of food evolution, historical, cultural and modern uses of food as medicine and the medicinal properties of food is also examined. The benefits and disadvantages of new dietary models are also explored. Students will explore the potential therapeutic function of food, the relationship of phytochemical constituents and disease, and their physiological effects on humans. Students will learn how to apply evidence-based nutrition knowledge to illustrate the use of food as a therapeutic tool and provide food-based recommendations in health and disease.

Pre-requisite: NUTR2002 Human Nutrition 2, EBP107 Evidence Based Practice 

Assessment Tasks: Test, Literature Review, Report

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online, Intensive

Integrated Pharmacology comprises a study of basic principles of pharmacology, the pharmacokinetics of drugs commonly used in medical practice and common interactions between drugs, physical therapies and natural remedies. Drugs for pain, inflammation, infection, mental health, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and endocrine systems are discussed. Drug actions, uses, contraindications, adverse effects and interactions with natural remedies and physical therapies are discussed, together with implications for naturopathic, nutritional, and western herbal medicine prescribing. This subject is crucial for the modern healthcare practitioner to understand common medications that patients may be taking and common interactions between these medications and complementary treatments. This subject also emphasises the need for clear lines of communication and common language between doctors and complementary healthcare practitioners in order to obtain the best health outcomes for clients.

Pre-requisite: HSP202A Human Systems & Pathophysiology 2 

Assessment Tasks: Online Test, Report, Digital Presentation 

Delivery Mode: On Campus, Online, Intensive