Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition / Bachelor of Business

4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

University of Newcastle

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition / Bachelor of Business at the University of Newcastle combines expertise in food, nutrition, and business, giving students a well-rounded skill set that is highly valued across the food and health industries. This degree is ideal for students who are interested in improving health outcomes through food and nutrition while also developing the business knowledge needed to drive innovation, manage organisations, and understand consumer markets.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students establish a strong foundation in both science and business. They study subjects such as Introduction to Food Science and Technology, Introduction to Nutrition Science and Applications, and Fundamentals of Accounting, while also building essential scientific knowledge through Introductory Chemistry I and Introductory Chemistry II. This combination provides the core understanding needed for success in both disciplines.

Year 2

The second year focuses on understanding how food, nutrition, and consumer behaviour interact within the broader industry. Students undertake courses including Essential Nutrients, Microbiology, Food Safety and Immunology, and Food Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, developing both scientific and commercial perspectives. This year helps students apply theory to real-world food and business challenges.

Year 3

In the third year, students deepen their expertise through advanced study in nutrition, food innovation, and product development. Subjects such as Nutrition in Health and Disease, Food Product Development, and Food Analysis provide valuable insight into food quality, health impacts, and emerging industry trends. Students also continue building specialised business knowledge through their chosen major.

Year 4

The final year focuses on professional practice and industry readiness. Students complete courses such as Future Food: Technologies, Issues and Trends, Food Processing and Quality Management, and a Professional Practice or Industry Placement experience. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and graduate with practical industry experience.

Focus Areas:

Food science, human nutrition, food product development, food safety, microbiology, consumer behaviour, food marketing, business management, innovation, sustainability, leadership, and food industry operations.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates develop a strong understanding of food science and human nutrition alongside practical business skills in management, marketing, and decision-making. They gain the ability to analyse scientific evidence, solve industry challenges, develop innovative food solutions, and contribute effectively within commercial and health-focused organisations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The program incorporates industry-focused learning through career-ready placements, professional practice experiences, and access to advanced facilities such as the Food Innovation Centre, food analysis laboratories, sensory testing laboratories, and commercial-grade food preparation facilities. These experiences ensure graduates are prepared for professional roles across the food, nutrition, and business sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

The University of Newcastle is recognised among the world's leading universities for Business and Economics. Graduates from Business and Management disciplines achieve strong employment outcomes, with 91.2% employed within four months of completing their studies. The combination of food science, nutrition, and business expertise provides graduates with a competitive advantage in a growing global industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Newcastle, students pursuing a Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition and a Bachelor of Business are immersed in a rich experiential learning environment that equips them with practical skills essential for their future careers. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance hands-on learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

In the Food Science and Human Nutrition program, students have access to specialized laboratories and equipment that facilitate research and experimentation. Similarly, the Bachelor of Business program emphasizes practical experience through various projects and internships, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce.

Here are some key experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:

Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition:
- Food Science Laboratories: Equipped with advanced technology for food analysis and product development.
- Nutrition Clinics: Opportunities to work in simulated environments that mimic real-world nutrition counseling.
- Field Trips: Visits to food production facilities and health organizations to gain insights into industry practices.
- Research Projects: Engage in hands-on research under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
- Internships: Opportunities to work with industry partners, gaining valuable experience and networking.

Bachelor of Business:
- Group Projects: Collaborative assignments that foster teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Business Simulation Software: Use of industry-standard software to simulate business operations and decision-making.
- Internships: Practical placements with local and international businesses to apply classroom knowledge in real settings.
- Networking Events: Access to workshops and seminars with industry leaders to build professional connections.
- Business Labs: Dedicated spaces for students to work on entrepreneurial projects and business plans.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in your chosen field.

Choosing to study at the University of Newcastle means you’re not just learning; you’re experiencing your future. I encourage you to apply and take the first step towards an exciting career in Food Science, Human Nutrition, or Business!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition / Bachelor of Business at the University of Newcastle prepares graduates for careers that combine scientific expertise with commercial insight. By developing knowledge in food science, nutrition, marketing, management, and innovation, graduates are well positioned to contribute to the future of the food industry while understanding the business strategies that drive success. The combination of these two disciplines creates diverse career opportunities across both scientific and corporate sectors.

Typical career opportunities include:

Food Scientist or Food Technologist
Product Development Officer
Nutrition Educator or Research Assistant
Food Marketing and Business Development Manager

This strong career preparation is supported by:

Career-ready placements, professional practice experiences, and opportunities for industry engagement that help students gain valuable workplace experience before graduation.
Access to the University's Food Innovation Centre, commercial-grade kitchens, food analysis laboratories, and sensory testing facilities that mirror professional industry environments.
Strong graduate outcomes, with 91.2% of Business and Management graduates employed within four months of graduation.
Industry-focused learning that connects students with real-world food production, product development, consumer behaviour, and business operations.
A unique combination of food science, nutrition, and business studies that provides graduates with a competitive advantage across multiple industries.
Global recognition through a university ranked among the world's top institutions for Business and Economics.
Practical training in food safety, product innovation, marketing, leadership, and management, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready upon completion of the program.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, graduates can continue their studies through:

Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition (Honours)
Master of Food Science and Technology
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master by Research programs in Food Science, Nutrition, Health Sciences, Business, or Marketing
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs for those interested in research or academic careers
Specialised postgraduate qualifications in public health, food innovation, entrepreneurship, business management, or food technology

These pathways allow graduates to deepen their expertise, specialise in a particular field, or pursue leadership, research, and academic opportunities in Australia and internationally.