Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Nutrition)
Gain an in-depth understanding of nutrition and the dietary influences that impact on the health of individuals.
During this three-year degree you’ll study theory and develop the practical skills needed for working in the area of human nutrition.
Some of the areas covered include: metabolic processes and how nutrients in food affect the human body; application of nutritional science to enhance the health of community groups; effects of major nutrition-related factors on non-communicable diseases that impact on the health of nations; identification of reliable sources of up-to-date nutritional information; communication of nutrition principles in a range of contexts using awareness of psychological, cultural and environmental influences on eating behaviour; genetics, physiology, culture, environment and social issues that assist in the management of body composition and nutrition choices.
Work placements with governmental and non-governmental health promotion organisations, nutrition education programmes, nutrition consultancies, community initiatives, workplace wellbeing programmes and school holiday programmes will give you real-world experience and ensure you’re work-ready when you graduate.
Part-time up to 6 years.
Fees for 2025
New Zealand University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include:
- 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
- Biology or Human Biology or Physical Education
- another subject, preferably Core Health/Health Education, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geography and Psychology. Human Nutrition specialisation applicants must have a minimum of 14 credits in Chemistry at Lvl 2 or equivalent
- One other subject from the list of approved subjects*
- Literacy - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing and
- Numeracy/Maths - 10 credits at Level 1 or avove (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Pre Health Pathway or equivalent.
Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/
In addition you need to:
Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports (these forms should not be from a friend or relative).
Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on their placement.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Nutritionists can work as consultants for individuals, sports teams, or workplaces; in community-based health promotion programmes; in government to provide policy advice; in public health, food industry, and research; or as food writers for media and marketing. As a graduate of this programme, you’ll have a solid scientific base with critical thinking and communication skills that can be transferred to other scientific areas
Study pathways
Graduates of this programme can apply for postgraduate study in the fields of nutrition, dietetics, public health and other related disciplines. They can also complete a graduate teaching qualification to teach in primary and secondary schools.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Science
- Food and Nutrition
Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Nutrition)
Gain an in-depth understanding of nutrition and the dietary influences that impact on the health of individuals.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3981 |
| Next Starts | July 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH3981-NUTR |
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports (these forms should not be from a friend or relative).
Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on their placement.
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- Bach Applied Science Additional Requirements Form PDF, 234 KB
- Referee report 1 PDF, 239 KB
- Referee report 2 PDF, 239 KB
Area of Interest
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