Diploma in Nutrition Science (CRICOS 106764H) at Australian Catholic University

Course overview

Diploma in Nutrition Science (CRICOS course code 106764H) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This course is part of the Health field (06) with a focus on Other Health (0699) and specifically Nutrition and Dietetics (069901). It is not a dual qualification or foundation studies program. The course has no VET national code, as it is not a VET course. The language of instruction is English. ACU is a well-respected government university with multiple campuses across Australia. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from the consumer protections of the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights.

What you'll study

In the Diploma in Nutrition Science, students typically explore the principles of human nutrition, food science, and dietetics. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid understanding of how nutrients affect the body, the role of diet in health and disease, and basic skills in nutritional assessment. While exact subjects are set by the university, graduates at this AQF Level 5 diploma are prepared for roles such as nutrition assistants, community health workers, or further study in nutrition and dietetics. The course also covers public health nutrition, food safety, and communication skills relevant to the field. Practical experiences may be offered depending on the campus. Students should consult ACU for the detailed syllabus.

Duration and study mode

The Diploma in Nutrition Science is a 1-year full-time program, listed as 52 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or combined award. No foundation studies component is included. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of the delivery locations. The course does not have a mandatory work component. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). The duration may vary if the student chooses part-time study, subject to visa conditions and university approval.

Fees (indicative — set by Australian Catholic University Limited)

The indicative tuition fee for the full program is A$28,344, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, resulting in an estimated total of A$28,344. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs vary by provider and duration. Living costs depend on the city: for example, Sydney may cost around A$600–$800 per week for rent, food, and transport, while Melbourne is similar. Always confirm current fees with ACU by visiting their website at www.acu.edu.au. Fees displayed are indicative only — set by Australian Catholic University Limited and may change yearly.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

For international applicants, ACU typically requires an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) as evidence of English proficiency. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some previous study in science or health may be advantageous. No specific foundation or pathway options are listed for this course, but applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements may complete a foundation program at ACU College or other providers. Check ACU's website for detailed country-specific entry requirements. Meeting minimum entry criteria does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution directly for the most accurate information on entry requirements.

Work component

This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain work experience while studying, but the Diploma in Nutrition Science itself has no required work placement. Students seeking practical experience may explore voluntary opportunities or internships independently, subject to visa conditions.

Delivery locations

The Diploma in Nutrition Science is delivered at three ACU campuses: Blacktown CBD Campus (Blacktown, NSW), Melbourne Campus (Fitzroy, VIC), and North Sydney Campus (North Sydney, NSW). Blacktown is a growing suburb in Western Sydney with good public transport links to Sydney CBD (about 40 minutes by train). North Sydney is a business district close to Sydney Harbour, easily accessible by train and bus. Fitzroy is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its cultural diversity and tram network. Sydney and Melbourne are Australia's largest cities, each with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students. Living costs in Sydney are slightly higher than Melbourne, but both offer excellent student infrastructure. Public transport is extensive, and campuses are well connected by trains, trams, and buses. Choose your location based on personal preference, climate, and lifestyle. Each campus provides a unique student experience with access to ACU's academic resources.

Student visa

International students enrolling in the Diploma in Nutrition Science will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus a short period after. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance requirements, and holding adequate health insurance (OSHC). The genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily. You must show financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, travel, and living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student). Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Dependants may be included under certain conditions. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au for current visa regulations. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent if needed.

How to apply

Applying for the Diploma in Nutrition Science at Australian Catholic University Limited is a straightforward process. Follow these three steps:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by study level, field, and location. Compare providers and ensure they hold current CRICOS registration. ACU's CRICOS code is 00004G.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and other required documents. Check ACU's application deadlines and apply online via their website. Some courses may have extra entry requirements, so confirm before applying.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ACU accepts your application, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. After approval, you can commence your studies.

Remember, all listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring your course meets Australian government standards. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), and we do not charge referral fees. ESOS Act protections apply.

Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to start your journey to studying Diploma in Nutrition Science at ACU.

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