How to become a dietitian

1. Two study pathways

Our Master of Nutrition and Dietetics, with its rich history and esteemed reputation, offers two pathways to help you become a leader in the field.

Complete a university degree in nutrition and dietetics straight after high school

You can apply to study our Bachelor of Science and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics as an undergraduate student if you meet the minimum ATAR score.

This five-year, full-time double degree (also available part-time) offers a solid foundation in nutritional sciences and dietetic practice and equips you to become a dietitian in various professional settings.

After completing a bachelor’s degree in science

Already have a bachelor's degree in science with a credit average? You can apply for the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics as a postgraduate student. Prerequisite requirements can be checked in the handbook.

Our Master of Nutrition and Dietetics degree is one of our Graduate Entry Masters courses (GEM) which provides an accelerated pathway to a professional health qualification. This course is a two-year full-time only degree that is a gateway to a dietetics career, offering hands-on nutrition training and a pathway to leading-edge dietetic and nutrition research and practice.

2. Study with the best

The University of Sydney's Master of Nutrition and Dietetics is the oldest course of its kind in the country, commanding a legacy of excellence and experience. Our nutrition and dietetics program is the most highly regarded and longest running program in nutrition and dietetics in Australia.

Added to this, the University of Sydney is ranked 2nd in Australia for Life Sciences and Medicine (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024) and 18th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025).

As a nutrition and dietetics student you’ll have access to a range of world-class facilities. These include our specially designed food science labs at Australian Technology Park, and our plant breeding facilities at Camden and Narrabri depending on your chosen study area.

Added to this, you'll learn in our new state of the art Susan Wakil Health Building, with access to brand new clinical simulation teaching spaces, research facilities, a multi-service clinic and a brand new library.

You’ll learn from subject-matter experts, benefiting from a legacy of teaching excellence that spans decades, positioning you at the forefront of dietetic and nutrition practice.

3. Complete your professional placements

Professional placements are integral to both degrees, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

Work with a variety of clients in numerous environments, including university teaching hospitals in Sydney and rural areas, if preferred.

These placements help you combine academic study with the practical skills needed in the nutrition and dietetics profession.

4. Get your professional accreditation

Our nutrition and dietetics program is accredited by Dietitians Australia (DA) and as a graduate you are eligible to become a full member of DA and to join the Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Program.  

5. Start your new career

After you’ve completed your degree and have become accredited, a wide range of professional opportunities are available to you. These include:

• Dietitian-nutritionist
• Private practice or primary care dietitian
• Consultant dietitian
• Community dietitian-nutritionist
• Food service, corporate, or hospital dietitian
• Nutrition communicator

Our graduates can be found in almost all areas of dietetic and nutrition practice including hospitals, private practice, community health, non-government organisations, government organisations as well as academia and research.

Join a program with a storied history and a proven track record of success in shaping the future of nutrition and dietetics.