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Study Sport and Exercise Nutrition at Otago

From health and wellbeing to elite performance

There is growing interest in the relationship between nutrition, physical activity and sporting performance, with two major areas of focus:

The Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise Nutrition is the only degree programme in New Zealand that combines nutrition and physical education. This degree will allow you to study the role nutrition plays in both health and sporting performance.

Why study Sport and Exercise Nutrition?

This is the first qualification in New Zealand that focuses on sport and exercise nutrition, giving a thorough grounding in all aspects of human nutrition and relevant areas of exercise and sport science. The degree requires a second major or a minor from a list of approved options. These will give you a set of complementary skills, making your Sport and Exercise Nutrition degree even more relevant to today's working world.

Career opportunities

There is a growing need for individuals with a combined understanding of the principles of nutrition, health and physical activity. This means there are many career paths available, depending on the minor chosen to complement SPNU, and the individual's areas of interest.

Some examples include:

  • sports nutrition consultancy
  • roles in public health, physical activity and nutrition
  • research
  • product development
  • dietetics

What is Sport and Exercise Nutrition?

Sport and exercise nutrition is a rapidly expanding area requiring a combined knowledge of the roles of human nutrition and physical activity in health.

The Sport and Exercise Nutrition (SPNU) programme combines human nutrition, sports science and physical education. In addition, several minor programme options are available, broadening the career opportunities upon completion of your degree.

What will I learn about?

A broad understanding of the principles of nutrition and exercise science will be obtained from human nutrition and physical education papers in the first, second and third years.

First year

In your first year of study you will be required to take papers in nutrition, human body systems, biochemistry and chemistry.

Second year

In your second year, human nutrition and physical education become the mainstay of your study.

Third year

The third year sees further specialisation in the selection of human nutrition and physical education papers.

Teaching style

As well as lectures to learn the theory of human nutrition and sport and exercise science, there is a large practical component in both the physical education and human nutrition papers. Labs and practical sessions give you hands-on experience and regular tutorials provide excellent small group learning opportunities.

Recommended background

High school students are recommended to take biology, chemistry, maths and English in Year 12 and preferably chemistry in Year 13.

Choose a study option

Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.

Undergraduate qualifications

For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.

Note: this subject can also be studied as a minor.

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Further study opportunities

Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.

Programme details

Compare programmes for this subject as a major and minor (where available).


More information

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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.

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