Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This double degree integrates foundational biomedical and nutrition science with a broad business administration curriculum. You build knowledge of human physiology, biochemistry of nutrients, evidence-based nutrition, food science and public health nutrition alongside studies in management, marketing, accounting and organisational behaviour.

• Nutrition science modules: human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry for nutrition, nutrition across the lifecycle, clinical and therapeutic nutrition, public health nutrition, food science and safety, research methods and statistics, and laboratory-based practicals.
• Business administration modules: principles of management, marketing, accounting and finance, human resource management, business law and ethics, operations management and strategic management.
• Integrated learning: applied projects, professional placements or internships in community, clinical or industry settings, and a capstone or research project that may combine nutrition and business themes (for example, product development, program evaluation or a market analysis for health services).
• Skills developed: nutritional assessment and counselling fundamentals, data analysis and research literacy, business planning, communication and leadership, and the ability to translate scientific evidence into commercially viable or policy-relevant solutions.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and typically requires completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Successful applicants usually need a satisfactory English language background; specific prerequisites such as chemistry, biology or mathematics are recommended for the nutrition science component but requirements can vary by campus.

Admission pathways include direct school leavers (via an ATAR or equivalent), tertiary transfer, and recognised prior learning or work experience for mature applicants. International applicants must meet ACU's English language and academic entry standards.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for roles that combine nutrition knowledge with business acumen. Typical career paths include:

• Nutrition advisor or community nutritionist in health services, government or non‑profit organisations
• Product development or regulatory roles within the food and beverage industry
• Corporate health and wellness coordinator or employee wellbeing manager
• Marketing, sales or commercial roles for nutrition-related products and services
• Policy, program management and advocacy roles in public health or community organisations
• Further study pathways into accredited dietetics conversion programs, clinical dietetics, public health, postgraduate business or research degrees.

Note: to practise as an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) in Australia typically requires completion of an accredited dietetics program or a recognised postgraduate conversion; this double degree provides a strong foundation for those planning further professional qualification.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises applied, industry-relevant learning with opportunities for workplace placements, industry projects and hands-on laboratory work. The university is known for relatively small class sizes, strong student support and a focus on ethical practice and social justice which is reflected across health and business teaching.

Studying this combined degree at ACU offers a multidisciplinary profile valued by employers: scientific literacy in nutrition together with practical business and management skills. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates to work across clinical, community and commercial settings and to adapt to evolving roles at the intersection of health and business.