Bachelor of Science (Nutrition), Bachelor of Innovation

4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

Program Overview: The Bachelor of Science (Nutrition and Food Science) and Bachelor of Innovation at Curtin University is a forward-thinking double degree that blends nutrition science with creativity, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving skills. It is designed for students who are interested in health, food systems, and developing innovative solutions to real-world nutrition and sustainability challenges.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: In the first year, you build a strong foundation in nutrition and scientific principles through units such as Human Nutrition, Food Science Fundamentals, and Introduction to Innovation and Entrepreneurship. These units help you understand how food affects human health while also introducing creative thinking and basic innovation skills.

Year 2: In Year 2, you expand your knowledge through subjects like Nutrition Across the Lifespan, Food Chemistry and Analysis, and Design Thinking for Innovation. This stage focuses on applying nutrition science in practical contexts while also developing problem-solving and analytical skills.

Year 3: In the third year, learning becomes more applied with units such as Nutrition Professional Practice, Food Product Development, and Business Innovation Lab. You begin working on real-world projects that connect nutrition science with industry and innovation practices.

Year 4: In your final year, you complete advanced study through units like Sustainable Business Innovation Project, Global Nutrition Systems, and a capstone research or applied project. This year prepares you for professional work or further study by focusing on leadership, research, and industry application.

Focus areas: Human nutrition, food science, innovation and entrepreneurship, food product development, public health nutrition, sustainability, and applied problem-solving.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will be able to apply nutrition science to real-world problems, design innovative food and health solutions, communicate effectively in professional settings, and demonstrate readiness for industry or research careers.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Graduates can apply for Associate Nutritionist status through the Nutrition Society of Australia, supporting professional recognition in the nutrition field.

Reputation (employability rankings): Curtin University is recognised for strong graduate outcomes in health-related fields, including high levels of full-time employment and competitive graduate salaries for health science students.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin University, students pursuing the Bachelor of Science (Nutrition) and the Bachelor of Innovation programs are immersed in a rich environment that emphasizes experiential learning. This hands-on approach not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips students with practical skills that are essential for their future careers. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can engage in real-world projects, collaborate with peers, and gain invaluable experience in their fields.

Here’s how these programs foster experiential learning:

- Nutrition Laboratory: Students have access to specialized nutrition labs equipped with the latest technology for food analysis and dietary assessments.
- Research Institutes: Engage with the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, where students can participate in cutting-edge research projects.
- Field Trips: Experience learning outside the classroom with organized visits to health organizations, food production facilities, and community health programs.
- Internships: Opportunities for industry placements allow students to gain practical experience in various settings, from hospitals to community health organizations.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork and problem-solving, simulating real-world scenarios that professionals face in the nutrition and innovation sectors.
- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as Food Processor and NutriAdmin for dietary analysis and meal planning, enhancing technical skills relevant to the industry.
- Curtin Library: Access a vast collection of resources, including journals, databases, and e-books, to support research and learning.
- Innovation Hub: Engage with the Curtin Innovation Centre, where students can work on entrepreneurial projects and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems.

These experiences not only enrich your education but also prepare you for a successful career in nutrition or innovation. If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic journey, consider applying to Curtin University.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Curtin’s Bachelor of Science (Nutrition and Food Science) and Bachelor of Innovation are well prepared for careers that combine nutrition science with creativity, business thinking, and real-world problem solving across the food and health sectors. You may work in areas such as nutrition science, food product development, community health, research, and innovation-driven health and food industries, where interdisciplinary skills are increasingly valued.

Typical roles include: Nutritionist, Nutrition scientist, Nutrition business consultant or analyst, Community health consultant, Health and food consultant, Entrepreneur, Research assistant, and roles within food manufacturing, public health, and health innovation organisations.

What supports your career success at Curtin:

• Curtin Careers and Employability Services offer personalised support including career planning, resume and interview preparation, job search assistance, and access to employer networking events
• Work-integrated learning is embedded throughout the degree, particularly in units like Business Innovation Lab, Nutrition Professional Practice, and the Sustainable Business Innovation Project, giving you hands-on industry experience before graduation
• Strong connections with industry partners across food, health, and innovation sectors help ensure your skills remain relevant and aligned with employer expectations
• Graduates are eligible for Associate Nutritionist status through the Nutrition Society of Australia, which strengthens professional recognition and credibility in the nutrition field
• Curtin is known for strong graduate outcomes in health-related areas, including good employment rates and competitive graduate salaries in health services and support fields

Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, you can continue into postgraduate study such as a Master of Dietetics to become a qualified dietitian, or pursue honours, master’s, or research degrees in areas like nutrition science, public health, food systems, health promotion, or innovation and entrepreneurship.