The Master of Health Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics prepares you to become a New Zealand Registered Dietitian in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Designed to prepare graduates to improve health outcomes at the individual, whānau, and community level, this two-year programme equips you with advanced knowledge and practical skills grounded in scientific evidence and cultural responsiveness. Whether your future lies in hospitals, community health, research, or policy, you will graduate with the confidence and competence to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

This two-year Masters is an accredited programme that enables you to apply for registration with the New Zealand Dietitians Board. You’ll learn from leading researchers and experienced practitioners from the University of Auckland and Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand), gaining access to critical thinking in clinical nutrition, public health, and health equity. Throughout your studies, you will develop core competencies in medical nutrition therapy, applied nutrition, food service systems, communication, and interprofessional collaboration.

A key feature of the programme is the opportunity to apply your learning in real-world settings. You will complete 20 weeks of supervised professional placement across clinical, community, public health, and food service settings, with strong partnerships across Te Whatu Ora and other major healthcare providers. These placements are designed to develop your practical skills and deepen your understanding of the dietitian’s role in diverse environments.

Your learning experience will be enriched through small-group teaching, case-based learning, and simulation, fostering a collaborative and reflective approach to dietetic practice.

As a graduate, you will be well prepared for careers in clinical dietetics, community health, public health nutrition, food service management, health promotion, or research.

Many of our alumni go on to take up roles in hospitals, non-government organisations, primary health care, or postgraduate research, contributing to the wellbeing of communities across Aotearoa and beyond.

If you are passionate about health, food, and equity – and are ready to develop the skills to lead change through nutrition – then the Master of Health Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is the ideal next step!

Explore postgraduate study in Nutrition and Dietetics or contact us to learn more about entry requirements, placements, and student support.