Master of Dietetic Practice (CRICOS course code 106766F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 2 years. This program is designed for graduates who wish to become accredited practising dietitians, equipping them with the skills to assess nutritional needs, develop dietary plans, and promote health through food and nutrition. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00004G), it meets the rigorous standards required to enrol international students under the Australian Government's ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy provides this profile as a free resource, using data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision about studying in Australia. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, this course stands out for its focus on clinical dietetics and public health nutrition.
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The Master of Dietetic Practice is a postgraduate coursework degree that prepares students for professional practice in dietetics. It is classified under the field of Nutrition and Dietetics (069901) within the broader Health field. Graduates typically learn to apply scientific principles to food and nutrition, counsel individuals and communities, manage food service systems, and contribute to public health policy. The course includes a substantial work-integrated learning component, ensuring students gain practical experience in clinical, community, and food service settings. Australian Catholic University Limited, a public university with multiple campuses, delivers this program in Melbourne (Fitzroy) and North Sydney. As a CRICOS-registered provider, ACU is approved to enrol international students, and all students are protected by ESOS safeguards.
While specific subjects are determined by the university, a master's degree in dietetics typically covers advanced topics such as medical nutrition therapy, community and public health nutrition, food science, research methods, and professional practice. Students develop competencies in assessing nutritional status, designing interventions, and evaluating outcomes. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical placements, allowing students to work with patients, clients, and communities. This field of education (06 - Health, 0699 - Other Health) emphasises evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates often pursue careers as dietitians in hospitals, private practice, aged care, sports nutrition, or public health organisations. The course is designed to meet the accreditation standards of Dietitians Australia, enabling graduates to apply for Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) status.
The Master of Dietetic Practice is a full-time program with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). Students are expected to commit to full-time study, including lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and clinical placements. Part-time study is typically not available for international students due to visa conditions. The course is offered on campus at ACU's Melbourne and North Sydney campuses, with no online or distance options for the core components. This structure ensures that international students meet the visa requirement of a full-time load of at least 20 contact hours per week.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Dietetic Practice is A$91,280 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, but students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, uniforms, and equipment. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are NOT included in this figure. Living costs vary by city: in Melbourne, indicative weekly costs are around A$500–700 for rent, groceries, and transport; in Sydney, similar costs range from A$600–800. Always check the provider's website (www.acu.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule. Fees are set by the institution and are subject to change; HeadStart Academy sources indicative fees from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Entry to the Master of Dietetic Practice typically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., health sciences, nutrition, or food science) with a strong academic record. English language proficiency is required, with an overall IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent). Some prerequisite subjects in human physiology, biochemistry, and nutrition may be necessary. As this is a coursework master's, prior research experience is not mandatory. ACU may also consider relevant work experience and a personal statement. International applicants should consult ACU's international admissions page for country-specific requirements. There is no foundation studies component listed on the CRICOS register for this course, but pathway options may be available through ACU's College. Always verify entry requirements directly with the provider.
Yes, this course includes a compulsory work component of 26 weeks, totalling approximately 800 hours. This professional placement involves supervised clinical dietetics practice in hospitals, community health centres, or food service settings. Students apply theoretical knowledge under the guidance of experienced dietitians, developing competencies in patient assessment, dietary planning, and counselling. The placement is integrated into the curriculum across multiple semesters, ensuring gradual skill development. This work-integrated learning is essential for accreditation and helps students build a professional network. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can participate in these placements as part of their course requirements.
This course is delivered at two Australian Catholic University campuses: Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, Victoria, and North Sydney Campus in North Sydney, New South Wales. Fitzroy is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, known for its cultural diversity and access to major hospitals. North Sydney is a commercial hub close to Sydney's CBD, with excellent public transport links. Both cities have large international student populations: Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students across many institutions, while Sydney hosts over 150,000. Each city offers a wealth of part-time work opportunities, with typical student wages in hospitality and retail. When choosing a location, consider climate, cost of living, and proximity to clinical placement sites. Victoria and New South Wales have numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering health courses, but this specific program is unique to ACU.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. The visa requires proof of enrolment (CoE) from ACU, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Students must maintain OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of their stay. While on a Student visa, work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Both Melbourne (Fitzroy) and Sydney (North Sydney) offer excellent study environments, but they differ in lifestyle and cost. Melbourne is known for its arts, food, and slightly lower living costs (median rent A$400–550 per week for a share house). Sydney is larger, with a more expensive rental market (A$500–700 per week) but more beachside living. Each city has a robust public transport system, with Fitzroy well-served by trams and North Sydney by trains. The choice may depend on personal preference and clinical placement opportunities. ACU's campuses are well-connected to major hospitals in both cities, ensuring a wide range of placement options. Consider visiting both campuses if possible, or research the local dietetics job market to inform your decision.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Dietetic Practice at Australian Catholic University Limited:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's search tool to filter by course level (Masters Degree (Coursework)), field (Health), and location (VIC or NSW). Confirm that ACU (CRICOS 00004G) and course CRICOS code 106766F meet your needs.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ACU's website (www.acu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 6.5-7.0), and any supporting documents. Submit your application through ACU's online portal.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, ACU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. For visa help, consult a registered MARA agent.
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Master of Dietetic Practice is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.