Charles Darwin University
2 years full-time, 4 years part-time
Master the science and practice of nutrition and dietetics through this accredited 2-year program combining rigorous academic study with 100 days of supervised professional placements. Ideal for health science graduates seeking to become qualified dietitians in clinical, community, or public health roles.
Applicants must hold a recognised bachelor degree in a health-related field (biomedical science, science, health sciences, nutrition, food science, or exercise science) with a minimum GPA of 5.00. Prior completion of specified units is required: 2 Chemistry units, 2 Biochemistry units (after Chemistry), 2 Human Biology units, 2 Human Physiology units (after Biology), and 2 Food and Nutrition Science units. A written statement detailing motivation for dietetics, reasons for the course, and relevant work experience is mandatory. International students must meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS 7.0 minimum). All students require a Working with Vulnerable People check and Australian Federal Police Record Check before commencing work-integrated learning.
The Master of Dietetics curriculum encompasses 160 credit points across core and research units. Core units (140 cp) include Medical Nutrition Therapy 1 and 2, Food Systems Management, Nutrition and Dietetic Counselling, Nutrition Across the Lifecycle, Food Society and the Environment, Public Health Nutrition, Research Design, Dietetic Professional Skills (20 cp), and two Dietetics Professional Placement units (20 cp each). Students complete a 5-day on-campus intensive for Food Systems Management and Nutrition and Dietetic Counselling, plus a 2-week intensive for Professional Skills. The research component (20 cp) involves a Nutrition Research Project. Work-integrated learning includes 100 days of supervised clinical placements with final semester full-time placement commencing mid-January.
Charles Darwin University is ranked #2 in Australia for postgraduate employment outcomes (GUG 2024) and ranks in the top 100 globally for quality education. CDU's Master of Dietetics is accredited by Dietitians Australia, ensuring graduates meet professional standards for APD registration. The university offers flexible study options (full-time 2 years or part-time 4 years), supports students with a people-first approach, and maintains partnerships with health and community organisations across regional, rural, and remote locations, providing authentic placement experiences in diverse practice settings.
Graduates are eligible for full membership with Dietitians Australia and can join the Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Program. Career opportunities span diverse sectors: clinical dietitian roles in hospitals, community and public health positions addressing disease prevention, food supply and industry roles improving food access and affordability, food services management in aged care and childcare, and sports nutrition roles enhancing athletic performance. The qualification opens pathways in government health departments, private practice, research institutions, and international development organisations focused on nutrition and health equity.
Course fee
Start date
You will be redirected to the training provider to enquire directly. Workinitiatives is not the course or training provider. We aggregate and list courses only.