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Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Exercise)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result:
Higher education study
- Successfully completed equivalent to a minimum of half a year of full-time study of a higher education program at a recognised higher education provider
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience (for domestic students only)- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Qualify for Special Entry
OR
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Take a holistic learning approach to nutrition and exercise
- Build your skills in two highly complementary fields
- Develop the knowledge and skills to support community health and wellbeing through physical activity and good nutrition
- Be guided by experts and world-class researchers who are at the forefront of new discoveries in exercise and food sciences
- UniSA’s research in the area of health sciences is recognised as world-class.1
- Study with a university ranked in the World Top 100 for Exercise and Sport Science.2
1Results in Public Health and Health Services - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
22024 QS Subject Rankings - Sport-Related Subjects.
Snapshot
Study On Demand – a 100% online nutrition and exercise degree designed specifically for online learning. Take full control over your study - access support seven days a week, plan your study to fit around your life, view learning resources 24/7, and log into the interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device.
With the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, as well as an ageing population, health practitioners who have expertise in both nutrition and exercise are highly sought after.
Take your passion for nutrition and exercise to the next level and study a unique degree that builds your skills in two highly complementary fields. With a focus on real-world learning, you’ll leave with specialised knowledge and practical skills to promote nutrition and exercise for preventative health, while developing the skills to inspire a healthy and more active society.
The flexibility of this degree puts you in control of when and where you study. As a UniSA Online student, you'll receive personalised and extended-hour support so you have the best chance to succeed and thrive in your studies.
What you'll learn
Our nutrition and exercise degree explores the latest cutting-edge developments in health.
Discover the effects that food, nutrition, health and exercise have on the biological, psychological and social aspects of life. Explore diets and lifestyles for optimum health and the associations between nutrient intake, energy output and obesity. You’ll also learn how nutrition and diet affect physical activity and lifestyle changes, as well as how to maximise physical performance for healthy active people.
Some of the courses you’ll study include:
- Professional Communication to work in the Health Industry
- Psychology of Exercise, Sport and Health
- Nutrition for Exercise and Performance
- Health Promotion & Project Management for Health and Wellness
- Food as Medicine
You can tailor your degree to your interests and broaden your career prospects through your choice of electives. You can select two electives from a range of UniSA Online degrees.
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports.
Why Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Exercise)
Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand when it comes to living a healthy life. Health practitioners with a dual skill set in these two important areas of health are in demand.
In this degree, you'll develop expert knowledge on national physical activity and dietary guidelines, as well as current and emerging trends in the industry. In addition to building skills in health evaluation, project management and biological sciences, you'll also explore relationships between individuals and society that lead to population health patterns.
As a graduate, you'll come out with the skills to interpret scientific research and analyse quantitative and qualitative data to translate science into practical eating and exercise advice.
This degree allows you to put your knowledge into practice - you’ll work on projects that have the potential to make a difference to the health and well-being of those around you.
Our teaching staff come with many decades of experience in exercise science and nutrition education. As a student, you'll learn from expert academics and researchers who are leaders in their field.
Learn more about the benefits of studying nutrition and exercise >
Your career
As a health professional, your career opportunities are extremely varied. There are many opportunities for health professionals in federal, state and local government, the not-for-profit sector, private enterprise and at a very grass-roots level in community agencies. You could also work in health agencies, hospitals, universities and health research institutes.
You may decide to specialise in a certain area like workplace health, community development, alcohol and drug abuse, smoking or teenage pregnancy – or you may decide to work with particular client groups such as the elderly, people with disabilities or high performing athletes.
A UniSA Online Nutrition and Exercise degree can help you pursue the following careers:
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Health and wellness lifestyle adviser:
provide advice related to diet and nutrition, exercise, and general health and wellbeing, in a variety of settings, and to a diverse range of community groups and individuals including children, the elderly, expecting mothers, and athletes; support individuals to set and review goals on a regular basis; identify and apply best practice behavioural strategies to help individuals achieve their health goals; and coach people to identify and respond to psychological challenges in relation to healthy eating and exercise. -
Nutrition and exercise consultant:
help assess and increase an individual’s fitness, sporting performance and general health; apply evidence-based approaches for weight management; and understand nutritional, environmental and sociocultural influences on health and body weight; stay up-to-date with the latest scientific research in nutrition and exercise, and offer advice consistent with the National Physical Activity Guidelines and the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating. -
Corporate health and wellness adviser:
possess a high level of knowledge regarding contemporary Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) practices and risk management protocols; contribute to workplace wellness initiatives and programs; provide advice to senior management on issues involving health, safety and wellness; and identify opportunities to weave mental, physical and well-being into the organisational culture. -
Health promotion officer:
plan and develop policies, strategies and projects that promote health at a local, regional or national level; develop the health awareness of individuals, groups and organisations; run community training courses and workshops; write and produce leaflets, posters, videos and brochures to aid health promotion in different environments; and ensure work is underpinned by up-to-date knowledge of health promotion theory. -
Active and healthy ageing adviser:
promote, build and support the health and well-being of older people; identify and promote effective active and healthy ageing programs and strategies; disseminate evidence, research and data relevant to active and healthy ageing; and work with local government, community organisations, peak bodies, health providers and sporting organisations to build and support age-friendly environments relevant to older people.
Learn more about your career in Nutrition and Exercise >
Industry facts
Your study experience and support
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
- Access learning resources 24/7
- View course content before your term starts
- Work while you study
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online academic support seven days a week
You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment is a one-stop shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
What others are saying
I’ve been a registered pharmacist since 2010. In order to help my patients more holistically, I wanted to expand my knowledge, remain current with health information, and learn more about nutrition and exercise. The information I’ve learned in my degree allows me to better explain concepts to my patients, including the risks and benefits of certain diets and health fads. The biology videos in this degree are amazing. Although they’re fast, they cover important information in a short period of time. The way they’re presented makes the concepts really easy to understand and the learning experience more enjoyable.
Veddie Tularam
Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Exercise)
It’s been a while since I’ve studied, and wasn’t sure what I would be facing. But the support services have been extremely helpful and they’re always available when I need help. There is no such thing as a silly question!
Susan Richter
Bachelor of Health Science (Exercise & Nutrition)
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
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Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. -
Gather your relevant documents
If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.
In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.
Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password. -
Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Alternative Pathways
- UniSA College Diploma in Health (Sport)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Health)
- UniSA Online UniStart
Online Course Facilitator
After completing my doctorate, with research centered on gastrointestinal toxicities of cancer treatment, I have been teaching and developing online education courses for health sciences. My work in this arena, along with my volunteer roles and research output have resulted in multiple awards, including the South Australian Young Achiever of the Year in Science and Technology. I am passionate about innovative and engaging pedagogical practices, along with ensuring quality education is accessible for all.
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September. There are key application dates for each term. If you're looking to apply for credit, there are different closing dates you need to be aware of, so it's always best to double check. Key dates can be found at unisaonline.edu.au/key-dates.
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Do I have to be online at set times?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has online exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses may also require you to speak to your academics via phone or online communication channels at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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What academic support is available?
Our academics are available seven days a week, including weeknights. Throughout your degree, you’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing, and can answer any other course-specific queries.
You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
If you need after-hours learning support, Studiosity is a great resource that can help you with your writing, academic language, grammar and referencing. You’ll also be able to chat online with a Studiosity online adviser.
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How is my degree structured?
Full-time students study two courses each term. It makes earning a degree completely achievable, especially if you’re working. Your degree is delivered over four terms each year. Each term runs for ten weeks with two-week breaks in between each term.
You’ll also have the option to go part-time, or switch between the two. If you need to take a break in your study, that’s an option too. We recommend speaking to your Student Adviser who can help you update your study plan and check when your courses are offered.
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What career prospects do I have with my university qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. UniSA's online students have graduate employment rates well above the national average.*
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
*UniSA External UG full-time employment rate 83% Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you gain from each mode of study is the same – it's how you get there that's different. When you study online, everything from your course material to weekly activities and assessments are fully online. You'll communicate with academic staff and students via live messages, online discussion forums and email.
Studying on campus requires students to physically come on to campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. On-campus students have face-to-face contact with academics and fellow students and also communicate via email and online discussion boards.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance education has been superseded by online education.
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