Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Science (Honours)

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
4 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
HFNSC
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are for international students starting in 2026. Fees are based on the total number of units studied in this program on a full-time annual basis. Adelaide University also accepts applications for programs commencing after the advertised year. Tuition fees for these later years are likely to be higher.
$52,300
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
SACE Stage 2: Chemistry and Mathematical Methods, OR IB Chemistry AND IB Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL) or IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL)
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6 IELTS Listening 6 IELTS Speaking 6 IELTS Writing 6 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS code icon
CRICOS code
115712A
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum admissions requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential requirements for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

  • Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

  • Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

  • Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6
  • IELTS Listening 6
  • IELTS Speaking 6
  • IELTS Writing 6

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications
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Note:

This program is only available to applicants studying at Adelaide University via the Haide College agreement.

Why Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Science (Honours)?

Food and health are two of the biggest challenges of our time. 

How do we feed people in a changing world? Reduce waste? Improve sustainability? Make healthier options more accessible? 

This degree explores the science behind what we eat: how nutrients work, how food is processed and how diet impacts health, performance and wellbeing. You’ll investigate the links between food, disease, sustainability and public health, and build the skills to make a real difference.   

The Honours year will set you apart to future employers as someone with deep knowledge, focus and experience.  

program overview

Overview

Our Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Science (Honours) prepares you to educate and innovate in food. 

You’ll study digestion, metabolism, gut health and chronic disease. Learn how to assess diets, analyse food products and make evidence-based decisions in the field. Investigate how food is made, tested and regulated. Explore different approaches to food packaging and marketing. 

You’ll also analyse the social and cultural sides of nutrition – understanding why people eat the way they do, and how to communicate health advice that makes sense. 

Along the way, you’ll develop your research, communication and critical thinking skills. You’ll learn how to use data, work in food science facilities and conduct experiments.  

In your Honours year, you’ll deepen your knowledge with a major research project. This will show future employees you can work independently and apply scientific methods to real problems. 

What you'll learn

In the first three years of the Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Science (Honours), you’ll build a strong foundation in food and health.  

You’ll investigate global issues like food security and population health, exploring different ways to feed the world into the future. You’ll learn all about food systems and production, understanding the entire food journey from ‘farm-gate to fork’.  

You’ll complete 120 hours of hands-on placement in a food, nutrition or health organisation. Study how to design, formulate, produce, package and market foods. Develop the skills to use and alter food to combat diet-related health issues.  

In the lab, you’ll experiment with chemical composition and flavour combinations and explore ways to develop food supplies that are sustainable, nutritious, safe and healthy. 

In your Honours year, you’ll take on a major research project to deepen your knowledge and skills, preparing you for higher-level study or specialised work in the field. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 192 units comprising:

  • 120 units from Core courses, and
  • 42 units from Work integrated learning, and
  • 30 units for Electives

Complete exactly 120 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Biology I: Molecules, Genes and Cells
Course code
BIOL1022
Units
6
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Course name
Biology I: Human Perspectives
Course code
BIOL1023
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 1A
Course code
CHEM1001
Units
6
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Course name
Chemistry 1B
Course code
CHEM1003
Units
6
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Course name
Farm-Gate to Fork - Food Production I
Course code
FOOD1002
Units
6
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Course name
The Science and Technology of Food Production I
Course code
FOOD1003
Units
6
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Course name
Statistical Practice
Course code
STAT1003
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry II - Metabolism
Course code
BIOL2002
Units
6
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Course name
Food Microbiology 2
Course code
FOOD2002
Units
6
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Course name
Food Quality and Regulation 2
Course code
FOOD2003
Units
6
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Course name
Nutrition II
Course code
FOOD2004
Units
6
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Course name
Microbiology and Biotechnology II
Course code
BIOL2026
Units
6
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Course name
Sensory Evaluation of Foods III
Course code
FOOD3006
Units
6
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Course name
Public Health Nutrition III
Course code
FOOD3007
Units
6
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Course name
Food Product Development
Course code
FOOD3004
Units
6
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Course name
Food Chemistry III
Course code
FOOD3009
Units
6
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Course name
Food Processing, Preservation and Packaging Techniques 3
Course code
FOOD3010
Units
6
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Course name
Advanced Food and Nutrition Science (Hons) Pt 1
Course code
FOOD4000
Units
0
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Course name
Advanced Food and Nutrition Science (Hons) Pt 2
Course code
FOOD4001
Units
12
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Course name
Nutrition I
Course code
FOOD1005
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations of Chemistry IA
Course code
CHEM1007
Units
6
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Course name
Foundations of Chemistry IB
Course code
CHEM1009
Units
6

Complete exactly 42 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Nutrition and Food Science Internship
Course code
FOOD3008
Units
6
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Course name
Honours Food and Nutrition Science Project Pt 1
Course code
FOOD4002
Units
0
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Course name
Honours Food and Nutrition Science Project Pt 2
Course code
FOOD4003
Units
36
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Course name
Honours Food and Nutrition Science Project (T/Y) Cont
Course code
FOOD4004
Units
0
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Course name
Honours Food and Nutrition Science Project (T/Y) Final
Course code
FOOD4006
Units
36

Complete 30 units comprising:

  • 30 units from Program electives

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Introductory Accounting
Course code
ACCT1011
Units
6
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Course name
Managing Organisations and People
Course code
HRES1001
Units
6
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Course name
Indigenous People, Country & Protocols
Course code
INDG1006
Units
6
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Course name
Indigenous Scholarship & Interplay of Knowledges
Course code
INDG1007
Units
6
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Course name
Introduction to Marketing
Course code
MARK1008
Units
6
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Course name
Psychology IA
Course code
PSYC1100
Units
6
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Course name
Psychology IB
Course code
PSYC1200
Units
6
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Course name
Health and Illness in Populations
Course code
PUBH1004
Units
6
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Course name
Biochemistry II: Molecular and Cell Biology
Course code
BIOL2013
Units
6
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Course name
Environmental & Analytical Chemistry II
Course code
CHEM2016
Units
6
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Course name
Medicinal & Biological Chemistry II
Course code
CHEM2017
Units
6
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Course name
Marketing to the World
Course code
MARK3007
Units
6
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Course name
Physiology IIA: Heart, Lung & Neuromuscular Systems
Course code
PHYS2009
Units
6
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Course name
Physiology IIB: Systems & Homeostasis
Course code
PHYS2010
Units
6

Ready to apply?

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

How to Apply

How to apply

This program is only available to applicants studying at Adelaide University via the Haide College agreement.

Eligible applicants can apply now to study in 2026, via our International Application System.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

  • Career advice and mentoring services
  • Personal counselling
  • LGBTQIA+ support
  • Academic support
  • Fees and finance help
  • Security services
  • Accommodation services
  • Common rooms
  • Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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