Online Diploma of Nutrition Course

What is a Diploma of Nutrition?

The Diploma of Nutrition provides foundational knowledge as the first step into a fulfilling career in nutritional health and wellness. It delivers a thorough understanding of how nutrition impacts health, exploring the full spectrum of human anatomy, physiology and chemistry, and how they relate to human nutrition, digestion and metabolism. Upon completion, you’ll have the option to begin working or continue studying the Bachelor of Nutrition.

Designed to fit in with you
With a range of electives on offer, you can tailor your course to work towards your career goals. 

Learn from specialists in their field 
Our academics understand where the industry is heading and will guide you on your learning journey.

Create positive change
A qualification in nutrition can help you improve health and wellbeing in your own community and at a population level.

Course overview

The Diploma of Nutrition focuses on health science and provides a strong foundation of the role of nutrition in health. You’ll learn to apply the Australian Dietary Guidelines and Nutrient Reference Values to dietary assessments and planning. This degree promotes improving general health and wellbeing at each life stage and for indigenous communities at the population level. You’ll also gain a thorough understanding of human anatomy, physiology and chemistry, and how this relates to human nutrition, digestion and metabolism.

Career opportunities

The Diploma of Nutrition produces advocates for promoting optimal health by applying the foundational knowledge of what it means to be healthy and the role of food in health by communicating this it to the community as a Nutritional Advisor. Upon completion, you can begin a career in the professional domain of nutrition or continue studies onto the Bachelor of Nutrition.

Career paths

Nutritional Advisor

Future careers
Nutritional Advisor

Learn more about careers in Nutrition

Subjects and units

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

8 Core subjects

Biological Foundations | BFD105

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 Nutrition 1 | NUTR2001

Human Nutrition 1 (NUTR2001) 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.
Nutrition and Society | NUTR2003

Gain an understanding of the sociology of food, nutrition and health. Students will explore the relationships between human behaviour and dietary intake from a public health perspective. Students will be engaged in community-based research, to identify a public health issue which is prevalent in their community society.
Human Structure & Physiology 1 | HSP101

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 | EBP107

Evidence-based practice is an essential component of the exercise of clinical judgement in the delivery of quality healthcare. Students will also gain an understanding of how research evidence is translated into practice. This subject provides students with an introduction to health informatics, research and digital literacy, critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Students are guided through the skills necessary to locate, critique and interpret a research article for application to their practice. They will become familiar with quantitative and qualitative evidence, research methodology, basic descriptive and inferential statistics and the foundational skills to be able to evaluate and appraise evidence in healthcare research.
Human Nutrition 2 | NUTR2002

Human Nutrition 2 (NUTR2002) 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.
Human Structure & Physiology 2 | HSP102

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.
Lifespan Nutrition | NUTR2005

Lifespan Nutrition (NUTR2005) 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.

Industry partners

When you study with Torrens University Australia, you will benefit from our extensive network of industry partners. You’ll learn from industry professionals, gain invaluable insights and build key industry relationships.

Learning outcomes

Gain an introduction to health science and solid foundation in human nutrition
Explore the relationship between nutritional intake, the maintenance of health and the development of disease
Create basic dietary plans for all life stages including fitness and weight loss
Learn about the influence of society and culture on our dietary intakes
Understand and apply evidence-based practice and critical enquiry

Hear from our current Health lecturers and industry professionals on how we deliver our career focused approach to your education.

Domestic entry requirements, fees and scholarships

Admissions criteria and pathways: Domestic students

Before you begin your course application, check that you meet the requirements listed below.

OR work life experience demonstrating the ability to undertake study at the required level

Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.

Learn more about study pathways

View full course admission information

Fees: Domestic students

Domestic fees

Check the Domestic Course Fee Schedule for the cost of your course.

View our fees
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.
View our fees

Scholarships: Domestic students

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:

Scholarship types
Health

Alumni

Industry

Indigenous

View all scholarships

How to apply: Domestic students

Apply online now Make an enquiry

Frequently asked questions

What does admissions criteria mean?

Admissions criteria is a set of criteria that must be met to be eligible to apply for a chosen course.

To gain entry to an accredited undergraduate course at Torrens University Australia, applicants must both satisfy general admissions criteria and meet any additional course requirements where specified.

All admissions criteria and course-specific requirements apply consistently across campus locations and study modes. To find out more, visit admissions criteria.
What if I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?

Torrens University Australia has recognised pathways to help you gain entry into our bachelor degrees based on different criteria.

To find out more, visit Study pathways or contact one of our knowledgeable Course and Careers Advisors.
Can I get course credit for previous experience?

Yes, course credit is available upon application and academic approval.

If you have already completed a qualification or have relevant work experience, you may be able to receive credits towards your degree. This credit can take the form of credit transfer, block credit or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Our Program Directors will carefully review the learning gained from your previous qualification and/or experience to ensure we provide you with credit towards our degrees whenever appropriate. Review our course credits page or chat to one of Course and Careers Advisors.
What are course credits?

Course credits are credits that can be applied to your course based on your prior experience or qualifications. To find out more, visit course credits

.
What are Torrens University Australia’s courses’ ATAR requirements?

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.
Am I a domestic or an international student?

Domestic students are Australian and Permanent Residents. International students are those who hold citizenship or Permanent Resident status of all other countries.

International students from countries whose first official language is one other than English need to provide evidence of English Language Proficiency.
How do Torrens University Australia fees charge?

Torrens University Australia is a full-fee paying institution. To find out more, visit Tuition Fees.

Domestic students may be eligible for FEE-HELP. For more information on FEE-HELP, please visit: https://www.studyassist.gov.au/.

Please note we do not currently offer any full fee waivers for international students. We do not offer stipends or living allowances.
How much are Torrens University Australia courses?

For a full list of tuition fees, visit Tuition Fees.

Remember, if you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident, your fees can be covered by FEE-HELP. You can find out more information on FEE-HELP on the StudyAssist website at https://www.studyassist.gov.au/fee-help or contact us and we can guide you through the process.
Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
To get a FEE-HELP loan, you must:

be an Australian citizen and study at least part of your course in Australia, or

be a New Zealand Special Category visa (SCV) holder or permanent humanitarian visa holder and meet the residency requirements.

be enrolled in a fee-paying place at a provider that offers FEE-HELP loans

be enrolled in an eligible course at your provider by the census date (your provider can tell you if your course is eligible)

submit the Request for FEE-HELP form to your provider by the census date

not have already borrowed up to your HELP loan limit.

Permanent residents can only get FEE-HELP for approved bridging studies.

If you are studying at a non-university, you will also need to meet the ‘pass rate’ requirements.

You can find out more information on the StudyAssist website at https://www.studyassist.gov.au/fee-help or speak to a Course and Careers Advisor and we can guide you through the process.
Can I apply for FEE-HELP?

To be eligible for FEE-HELP you need to be an Australian citizen , and have a tax file number. You must also be studying at an approved higher education provider, such as Torrens University Australia.

You can find out more information on the StudyAssist website at https://www.studyassist.gov.au/fee-help or contact us and we can guide you through the process.
How do I apply for FEE-HELP?

If you receive an offer from Torrens University Australia, and you meet the eligibility requirements, you may be eligible for FEE-HELP. You will need to complete a Commonwealth Assistance Form if you want to defer payment of some, or all, of your tuition fees. You will need to quote your tax file number or provide a Certificate of Application for a Tax File Number. The form must be completed before the due date.

You can find out more information on the StudyAssist website at https://www.studyassist.gov.au/fee-help or speak to our Course and Careers Advisors and we can guide you through the process.
Is there a FEE-HELP limit?

For 2020, the HELP loan limit is $106,319 for most students. The Australian Government publishes the HELP Loan limit on their website.

FEE-HELP is a loan scheme that assists eligible fee-paying students to pay their tuition costs. Eligible students can borrow up to the FEE-HELP limit to pay their tuition fees. Note: Any loan fees that were applied to study prior to January 1, 2019 will not count towards your FEE-HELP limit.

Students repay the loan to the Australian Government through the tax system once a student reaches the minimum income threshold level for repayment, which for 2019-20 is $45,881.

You can find out more information on the StudyAssist website at https://www.studyassist.gov.au/fee-help or Contact Us and we can guide you through the process.
What courses are available for FEE-HELP?

To find out more, visit How to Apply.
What is FEE-HELP?

FEE-HELP is a loan scheme that assists eligible full-fee-paying students pay their tuition costs.

You must be studying at an approved FEE-HELP provider in order to access a FEE-HELP loan, such as Torrens University Australia.

A FEE-HELP loan does not cover costs like accommodation, laptops or textbooks, and must be repaid once you start earning above a certain income threshold.

To find out more, visit the Study Assist website: https://www.studyassist.gov.au/help-loans/fee-help.
Is there anything I can do to prepare for Torrens University Australia?

There are lots of resources to help you prepare for university life. Attend one of our workshops or events and get some tips firsthand from our industry-focused lecturers and current students.

The events programs range in topic and delivery mode, so there should always be one to suit your needs. At any time you can contact one of our Course and Careers Advisors to talk through your career goals. They can guide you on what to expect and how you can get prepared earlier. If you know exactly which course you want to enrol in, you could take advantage of the early entry program.
What is the Early Entry Program?

The Torrens University Australia Early Entry Program has been created to allow you to apply and secure your place for your chosen course before you finish your Year 12 exams.

To find out more, visit Early Entry Program or email enquiries@tua.edu.au or phone 1300 575 803.
How do I apply?

Applying is easy and can be done online by filling out the apply form. If you have any difficulty, please contact a Course and Careers Advisor, who can talk you through the process.

ALL SA/SACE and Victorian high school students must apply through SATAC and/or VTAC. Search for Torrens University Australia, Billy Blue College of Design or Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School. International applicants may also need to demonstrate compliance with relevant legislative requirements, for example, requirements for student visas (this does not apply for online study outside of Australia).
How will I know if my application has been processed?

Our Course and Careers Advisors will help you through every step of the application process and provide you with updates. If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter via email.
I am having trouble with my application. Who can help?

Our friendly Course and Careers Advisors are available to answer all your questions and guide you through the application process. Fill out the contact us form and one of them will reach out to you.
What are pathways?

All Torrens University Australia courses have specific entry requirements, but we also offer multiple pathways into courses when you don’t meet those entry requirements.

There are different pathways for different courses. For example, we offer a range of diploma courses which pathway into bachelor degrees in Business, Design and Creative Technology, Health and Hospitality. We also have graduate certificate and graduate diploma courses which pathway into masters courses in Business, Global Project Management, Sports Management, Health, Education, Design and Hospitality. 

For more information on different types of pathways available, visit study pathways.
How can I pay for my course?
Payment information will be outlined in your offer letter but there are a couple of different options:

Upfront payment via credit card, BPAY, cheque or overseas bank account transfer

Full or partial payment via FEE-HELP Government Assistance (domestic students only)
What are the key dates for 2021?

To find out more, visit Key Dates.
What are the semester and term dates?

Torrens University Australia has three main intakes each year, usually during February, June and September. There are also a range of accelerated intake dates available, meaning if you just miss the start date, you don’t have to wait until the next intake.

You can apply any time throughout the year for the next intake start date – or a future start date if you are planning ahead. Different semester dates apply for Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School as well as some of our other courses.

To find out more, visit key dates.

View all FAQs

Diploma of Nutrition