Bachelor of Science(Chemistry)and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sydney

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Sydney combines a strong scientific foundation with specialised training in nutrition and dietetics. It’s ideal for students who are passionate about health, food science, and improving wellbeing, offering a pathway to become qualified dietitians while understanding the chemistry behind nutrients and metabolism.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in chemistry and the basic principles of human health. Units like Chemistry 1A and Chemistry 1B cover molecular structures, chemical reactions, and laboratory techniques, while introductory health science units begin exploring human biology and nutrition concepts.

Year 2
The second year deepens your knowledge of chemical systems and their relevance to nutrition and health. You’ll study Organic Chemistry 2A and Physical Chemistry, alongside nutrition-focused courses that introduce dietary science, human physiology, and metabolism.

Year 3
In third year, you start integrating chemistry with applied nutrition and dietetics. Units such as Biochemistry and Analytical Chemistry equip you to understand nutrients at the molecular level, while introductory dietetics units focus on food science, dietary assessment, and community nutrition.

Year 4
The fourth year shifts focus toward professional nutrition practice and applied dietetics. You’ll undertake clinical placements and units like Food and Nutrition in Practice and Applied Human Nutrition, developing practical skills in dietary planning, client assessment, and evidence-based nutrition interventions.

Year 5
In your final year, you consolidate your knowledge and gain advanced clinical experience. Units such as Advanced Dietetic Practice and Professional Placement in Dietetics provide hands-on experience in hospitals and community settings, preparing you for registration as a practising dietitian.

Focus Areas

Nutrition science, dietetic practice, clinical nutrition, food chemistry, public health, professional dietetics

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop a strong chemistry foundation, advanced nutritional knowledge, and practical skills to assess, plan, and manage dietary interventions across clinical and community settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The Master of Nutrition and Dietetics component is accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA), meeting the academic requirements for professional practice as a dietitian in Australia.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the top institutions for health sciences and nutrition globally, with graduates highly sought after in healthcare, research, and public health sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Sydney, this combined Chemistry and Nutrition and Dietetics program is designed so you gain hands-on, practical experience throughout your studies. You’ll work in state-of-the-art chemistry labs to explore the science behind nutrients and metabolic processes, while your dietetics training includes clinical placements, community projects, and interactive workshops that prepare you for real-world practice. With access to advanced laboratory equipment, professional simulation spaces, and specialised digital tools, you’ll develop the skills needed to thrive as a dietitian:

Laboratory and research experience: Conduct experiments in purpose-built chemistry labs using advanced instruments like spectroscopy and chromatography, building strong analytical and experimental skills relevant to nutrition science.
Clinical placements and professional practice: Complete supervised placements in hospitals, community health settings, and private clinics, gaining hands-on experience in dietary assessment, meal planning, and patient care.
Group projects and problem-based learning: Collaborate with peers on case studies, community nutrition initiatives, and research projects that develop teamwork, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving skills.
Digital tools and software: Use nutrition analysis software, data management systems, and digital resources to support dietary planning, research, and professional practice.
Research institutes and centres: Engage with the University’s nutrition and health research centres, allowing you to participate in cutting-edge projects and contribute to the latest evidence-based practice.
Libraries and learning resources: Access specialised science and health libraries, online journals, and databases to support both laboratory work and dietetics research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics leave the University of Sydney with a unique combination of scientific expertise and professional dietetic training, making them highly sought after in healthcare, research, and community health settings. You could work as a clinical dietitian, community nutritionist, food scientist, or research nutritionist, applying your knowledge to improve health outcomes and guide evidence-based dietary practices:

Career support services: The University’s Careers Centre offers personalised career advice, resume and interview preparation, and access to internships and networking events. The Faculty of Health Sciences also provides specialised guidance for dietetics students, helping you connect with hospital placements, community health projects, and industry mentors.
Employment outcomes & earning potential: Dietitians trained in Australia are in high demand, with graduates enjoying strong employment rates and competitive starting salaries that increase with experience and specialisation.
University–industry partnerships: Through clinical placements and collaborative projects, students work with major hospitals, community health centres, and public health organisations, gaining direct experience and professional networking opportunities.
Accreditation & long-term value: The program is accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA), ensuring graduates meet all requirements for professional registration and long-term career recognition.
Graduate outcomes: You’ll graduate ready to assess, plan, and manage nutrition interventions across clinical, community, and research settings, equipped with both practical skills and scientific knowledge.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, graduates can pursue further study through specialised postgraduate programs in nutrition, public health, or clinical dietetics, or engage in research-based pathways such as an MPhil or PhD in nutrition science or related biomedical fields, opening doors to academic, research, or leadership roles in health and nutrition sectors.