Health

Diploma of Health Science

CRICOS 099640E

Health Courses | Anatomy | Torrens University

What is a Diploma of Health Science?

A Diploma of Health Science provides the foundational knowledge of biological and social sciences needed for further study in Complementary Medicine and Public Health. This course covers the functions of the human body and introduces you to a broad range of specialisation and elective subjects that allow you to tailor the course to suit your career goals. Graduate with the academic knowledge and practical skills for further study in Health or embark on a rewarding career in the broader complementary medicine and healthcare industries.

Throughout the course, you will learn how the human body functions at a biological and physiological level as well as the core concepts of evidence-based practice. Offering a range of specialisation and elective subjects, this course can be tailored to suit your career goals or prepare you for further study, with units in Digital Health, Complementary Medicine, Public Health, Nutrition, Counselling, Chinese Medicine and Food Science, among others.

Understand the core principles of biological and social sciences.
Explore how the body functions and maintains health in different environments.
Develop an understanding of health theories and initiatives to improve outcomes.
Refine your research skills, focusing on the importance of evidence-based practice.

Industry-recognised qualification

Upon completion, you’re eligible to attain Associate membership with the Complementary Medicine Association (CMA).

Download course guide Start online application

Study mode

Online, On campus

Campus locations*

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Online

Student

Domestic

International

Course duration

Full-time: 1 year   Part-time: 2 years 

Start date

19 Feb 2024

3 June 2024

16 Sep 2024

View all key dates

Fees & scholarships

Learn more

This is an AQF Level 5 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.

Hear from Alumna Grace Hermocilla and learn how the Diploma of Health Science helped her transfer into the industry. Our senior learning facilitator Dr Dhivya Rajasekaran, also shares what you will gain from a health science degree.

Career opportunities

Graduate with the academic and practical skills for further study in a more specialised field or step into a rewarding career in the broad complementary medicine and healthcare industries. This diploma can help you find work in areas as varied as public or community health, recipe or product development, retail or sales of health and wellbeing products, and content creation for health organisations.

Potential career paths

Clinic Practice Manager
Average salary: $85,000 - $110,000
Health Educator
Average salary: $99,460 - $122,572
Public Health Nutritionist
Average salary: $95,000 - $113,000

Learn more about careers in Health

Subjects and units

Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising 3 hours of facilitated study and 7 hours self-directed study.

Core
Electives
Specialisations

Requirements

These four core subjects and one specialisation subject from specialisation tab must be completed. Additionally you're required to select three elective subjects from the electives tab.

Core subjects

Biological Foundations | BFD105A

Biological Foundations explores the biological building blocks which make up the human body from the chemical level up to the cellular level. These essential chemistry concepts will assist with building relevant links to the study of human physiology in later subjects. The subject then explores the foundational studies in biochemistry which includes the structure and function of carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, lipids, DNA and RNA. The concepts of gene expression and regulation are discussed in addition to the cellular membrane structure and transport through the membrane. The study of the biology of the human cell concludes this subject and upon completion equips students to commence study at the tissue level of structure and physiology subjects.
Human Structure & Physiology 1 | HSP101A

Human Structure & Physiology 1 introduces the basic concepts and terminologies required to study and understand the structure and function of the human body. This subject will build on the biological foundations by exploring the interaction and organisation of cells, tissues and organs which forms a basis to study the physiological integration of key body systems. The maintenance and regulation of the internal environment by homeostasis at a system level will be key to students understanding disruption and disease in later subjects. Key physiological and functional processes such as movement, metabolism, oxygenation and protection will be discussed, with body systems including the integumentary, musculoskeletal, respiratory and cardiovascular system the focus of this subject. This subject will provide the first part of an evidence based foundational knowledge of human physiology to guide health practice.
Evidence-based Practice | EBP107A

This subject provides you with an introduction to the essential components of evidence-based practice: health informatics, research and digital literacy, and critical thinking. You will develop the skills necessary to locate, critique and interpret a research article, and gain an understanding of how research evidence is translated into practice. You will become familiar with quantitative and qualitative evidence, research methodology, basic descriptive and inferential statistics and the foundational skills to evaluate and appraise evidence in healthcare.
Human Structure & Physiology 2 | HSP102A

Human Structure & Physiology 2 will further develop knowledge of the structure and physiology of the human body with special attention given to the integration of human systems and beginning to explore the impact of disturbances in Homeostasis and disruption of normal function. The structure and function of the lymphatic, immune, digestive, nervous, endocrine, urinary, reproductive systems and the special senses are covered in detail including the homoeostatic control mechanisms of each system and the integration of the systems in the body. This subject builds on the knowledge and understandings of human structure and physiology, provides the foundation to look at disease, disorders and syndromes and their pathophysiology, in later subjects.

Requirements

Choose three elective subjects from below.

Elective subjects

Human Nutrition 1 | NUTR2001A

Human Nutrition 1 (NUTR2001A) provides a detailed and in-depth study of the macronutrients, protein, carbohydrates and lipids, as well as the water soluble vitamins and how these relate to human metabolism. Each individual macronutrient and water soluble vitamin is studied in regards to their composition, biological function, dietary sources, recommended daily intake, factors contributing to excess states, and states of insufficiency and deficiency; and signs and symptoms associated with nutrient imbalances found in individuals and populations. Students will investigate how the management of these nutrients contribute to the public health agenda.
Professional Communication and Collaboration | HSC101

Professional Communication and Collaboration will introduce you to the skills required by health professionals to enable effective interactions within a wide variety of inter-personal and inter-professional workplace settings. You will work on developing practical skills to assist in the building, maintenance, and endings of professional relationships with clients, other professionals, and members of the community across multi-modal communication settings. You will be introduced to frameworks promoting change, compliance, self-efficacy, goal-setting and collaboration. This subject will also cover those foundational counselling skills that are applicable to a wide variety of health professions, such as core counselling behaviours, listening skills, and communication micro-skills. Sessions facilitate your understanding of the importance of ethical communication, diversity and inclusion considerations, professional expectations and the development of professional behaviours including self-reflection and self-care. Agile and adaptable communication skills to support working with clients and with other professionals collaboratively and inclusively, allowing for conflict resolution and appropriate endings of relationships.
Food Science, Systems and Policy | NUTR2004A

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.
Botany & Herbal Manufacturing | BHM106

Botany & Herbal Manufacturing provides students with foundational botany and plant identification skills. In this context students will be familiarised with different forms of herbal preparations exploring the definition, herbs used, manufacturing techniques and application. Students are also introduced to the regulatory environment of commercial production and extemporaneous dispensing in Australia.

This subject has compulsory attendance requirements.
Chinese Medicine Foundations | CMF101

This subject introduces the fundamental philosophies and principles of Chinese Medicine (CM). It provides a solid and detailed account of the theory of Chinese medicine that can be used as a foundation for the further understanding of later subjects in the CM course. This introduction to Chinese Medicine explores the concept of yin and yang theory, wu xing theory, the functions of the organs and vital substances, as well as the causes, development and progression of diseases.
Healthcare in the Digital World | HDW204

Digital competence is an essential part of any career in the contemporary health sector. This subject will develop your digital fluency and introduce you to current and emerging health care technologies and data science, the role of telehealth, health applications for mobile phones, wearable technology, social media and the internet of things. You will cover the use of health informatics, such as telemedicine in rural communities and developing countries, and managing and monitoring information technology operations. You will also discuss the legal and ethical issues of using of these technologies in your practice as a health professional, and create an ethical and professionally appropriate online presence.
Lifespan Nutrition | NUTR2005A

Lifespan Nutrition (NUTR2005A) examines the range of nutritional requirements that impact populations, communities and individuals at particular life stages including pre-conception, pregnancy, during lactation, early childhood, adolescence, adulthood and ageing populations, as well as the specific issues affecting Indigenous communities, sports people and other at risk populations. This subject provides an overview of dietary patterns and eating habits by age group and dietary recommendations for optimal nutrition to maintain wellbeing at each life stage.
Human Nutrition 2 | NUTR2002A

Human Nutrition 2 (NUTR2002A) provides a detailed and in-depth study of the micronutrients and how these relate to human metabolism. This subject provides students with underpinning knowledge about the correlation that exists between micronutrients and human physiology. Each micronutrient’s structure, biological function, dietary sources, recommended daily intake and therapeutic dose is studied. This subject also covers the factors contributing to, and symptoms associated with, states of excess, insufficiency and deficiency found in individuals and populations. The role of nutrition and lifestyle factors in the development of chronic disease is examined. Furthermore, students will be introduced to the concepts of genetically engineered food. They will discover how food-borne illnesses can be prevented and identify environmental contaminants in the food supply. This subject also explores the current scientific literature, enabling students to determine the appropriate use of dietary supplementation.
Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Pattern Differentiation | CMD102

Chinese Medicine Diagnosis and Pattern Differentiation introduces students to the unique diagnostic tools used in Chinese Medicine to diagnose and treat disease. This subject will teach students how to examine patients using the four methods of diagnosis (observation including the tongue, listening and smelling, interrogation and palpation, including pulse taking) and how to interpret the clinical information gathered by examination. Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine is based on the theory that signs and symptoms reflect the condition of the internal organs and that all signs and symptoms form a ‘pattern’ of disharmony. Pattern differentiation and the Eight principles will be described in detail. Students will learn how to apply the Eight Principles and the four methods to formulate a disease pattern that explains the origin, location, and nature of a disease, enabling students to understand the progression of the disease and providing an initial guide to the principles of treatment.
Disease Prevention | HWEL2003A

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.

Requirements

Choose one specialisation subject from below.

Specialisation subjects

Understanding Health | HWEL2002A

This subject provides students an introduction to the diversity of health theories and initiatives to improve health outcomes. Students will engage with key concepts including human right to health, social determinants of health, equality, equity and vulnerability. An introduction to Australia’s health system and intersectoral action will also be provided.
Complementary Medicine Foundations | CMF105

Complementary Medicine Foundations introduces the historical and conceptual emergence of Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine and how this underpins contemporary clinical practice in Australia and globally. It specifically focuses on professional practice: introducing the therapeutic model, the underlying theoretical and philosophical concepts, and discusses the differences between various approaches to the health-disease-healing process. Students will be introduced to the local regulatory environment of the complementary medicine professions within the context of their career outcome and best practice. This subject introduces key concepts regarding ethics and communication in therapeutic relationships.
Foundations of Public Health | PUBH2000

Within this introductory course, students will learn the principles and practice of public health and improving the health of populations. Students will learn various functions and definitions of public health, the historical origins of public health and its evolution as a discipline. Students will learn relevant key principles associated with public health: ecological, human rights-based approach to health, social determinants approach; ‘new public health; the role and function of government in the administration of public health; public health service models, including comprehensive and selective primary health care. They will consider different understandings of health and illness, including professional, lay and Australian Indigenous definitions.

International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. For more information, visit Study in Australia.

International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.

Industry partners and work placements

You will have the opportunity to complete a Work-Integrated Learning placement in a sector and organisation of your choice. This placement will help you to establish a connection with the industry and help you to prepare for employment opportunities upon graduation. Upon graduation, you are eligible to attain Associate Membership with the Complementary Medicine Association (CMA).

Work placement hours

A placement is not compulsory, however we recommend you obtain 20 hours of work in the industry during your study. This will help to inform your course progression, understand career options and establish connections, giving you an advantage as a graduate.

Entry details

Domestic
International

Fees

Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.

FEE-HELP

Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.

Learn more about fees and FEE-HELP

Scholarships

If you are truly passionate about health, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of health scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the health industry:

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Year 12 (Australian secondary school certificate) or equivalent.

Vocational qualification (AQF Level 4), or above

Successful completion of a Higher Education qualification.

The below is an alternative option.
Work and life experience that demonstrates skills and knowledge gained through paid or unpaid employment, formal learning and/or non-formal learning (presented on a current resume with attached cover letter).

View full course information set

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification or gained skills through life or work experience, you may be able to credit this against your degree with us. Check information about Recognition of Prior Learning and Course Credit transfer. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

Fees

Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.

Fee payment

Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.

Scholarships

We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.

Admission criteria

Before you begin your application to study as a international student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

Australian Year 12 or equivalent; AND

Academic IELTS 5.5 (no band less than 5.5) or equivalent.

OR alternative entry requirement may be available. Contact the International Admissions team for more information.

View full course information set

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

Learn more about study pathways

Frequently asked questions

What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?

Torrens University Australia no longer considers ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) as our primary entry requirement. We have removed ATAR as the key admissions criteria for applicants aiming to study at Torrens University Australia. We strongly believed an alternative to the ATAR system should be found, which more broadly assesses students, especially when soft skills are emerging as important employability attributes. So, students with a recent secondary school education are now considered for admission if they have a Year 12 (Australian secondary school) certificate. Exceptions may apply to some courses.
What if  I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has a range of application pathways to help you gain entry into our degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study Pathways or contact our Future Student Advisors.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
If you are a domestic student attending university or an approved higher education provider, you can get a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your tuition fees.

You are eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for a unit of study (i.e. subject) if you:

Undertake study with an approved provider.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements:

An Australian citizen or a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency criteria and who will undertake, in Australia, at least one unit of study contributing to your course; OR

A permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be a resident in Australia for the duration of your unit; OR

Are a permanent visa holder who is undertaking bridging study for overseas-trained professionals, and will be a resident in Australia for the duration of the study.

Enrolled in an eligible unit of study by the census date for the unit.

Have not exceeded the FEE-HELP limit.

For full details, visit the Australian Government website Study Assist.

If you are still unsure, please contact our Future Student Advisors who can talk you through the information.

Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available for most courses upon application and academic approval (excluding Higher Degree by Research programs). 

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Review our Course Credits page or chat to our Future Student Advisors.
What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that recognises experience, previous study and qualifications, and other forms of informal and non-formal learning, to determine if you meet course requirements.

If you have relevant qualifications or experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your course and a reduction in tuition costs.

Please speak to our Future Student Advisors to discuss your prior learning experiences.

For more information, please visit Course credits.
How do I apply for a scholarship?

Torrens University has a wide range of scholarship options to support new, returning, international and Australian students. They all include a reduction in tuition fees, and some scholarships include a mentoring component with our industry partners.

Domestic students

When you speak to our Future Student Advisors, let them know you wish to be considered for a scholarship in your application form. They will show you how to apply for a scholarship.

International students

Please contact your Education Agent for further information. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 575 803 or by email.

For more details, explore our range of scholarships.

View all FAQs

Diploma of Health Science