Program Overview

If you don’t yet meet the entry requirements for the UC course you’re aiming for, UC College’s diplomas –  also known as higher education diplomas – will provide you with an introduction to your chosen study area. They act as an alternative entry pathway for admission to UC undergraduate courses and prepare you for university study.

Diploma of Health
Are you interested in pursuing a career in health? Our Diploma in Health at the University of Canberra is designed as a pathway into a range of health-related degrees such as Health Administration, Health Promotion, Public Health or Sports Administration. With a variety of employment opportunities available in both health and community organisations, studying a Diploma in Health will provide you with the skills to succeed in an ever-valuable industry.

Study a Diploma in Health at UC and you will:

• Develop an awareness of core health principles to contemporary health issues
• Understand and apply effective basic technical and communication skills for health professionals
• Develop relevant skills for further learning in a variety of health disciplines
• Gain skills in critical thinking and analysis of information in a health care context.

On successful completion of the Diploma of Health, you’ll receive up to 24 credit points (one year) of advanced standing into the second year of the following Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition Studies) at the University of Canberra

Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition Studies)
In studying a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition Studies) you will complete a range of foundation subjects to develop a sound scientific background in human nutrition including physiology, nutrition and food science. You will also investigate the factors that impact what effects food and nutrients have on our physical, social, mental and environmental wellbeing. 

Gain knowledge in the different nutritional practices and what role guidelines play. Graduate with specialist knowledge of the physiological, social, and epidemiological factors influencing diet-related diseases prevalent in societies today as well as across the lifespan and populations. Further study opportunities for this degree include Bachelor of Health Science (Honours), Master of Public Health and Master of Occupational Therapy.

Study a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutritional Studies) at UC and you will: 

• Work individually, collaboratively and ethically while building professional networks in the health sector.
• Translate and communicate discipline specific knowledge to a variety of health-related audiences such as professionals, government and non-government representatives and clients.
• Develop and apply critical analysis skills to a range of contemporary health related issues
• Identify factors influencing food behaviour, attitudes, safety and availability.
• Assess and apply relevant nutrition assessment practices and guidelines.
• Evaluate and critique nutritional assessments across the life-span, different populations and disease states.
• Identify and explain the sources and function of nutrients in dietary patterns and their role in maintaining health.

Work Integrated Learning
 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is at the very centre of all UC degrees. You’ll complete units designed to help you develop the professional skills essential for employment in the health industry. You will work and study in real-world situations, learning from industry-active professionals and world-class scholars and graduate highly employable with the skills and knowledge for success.

As part of your degree you will undertake a 120-hour WIL experience during the final year of your course.