Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Course summary for international students

Course sub-headings

• Course overview
• Professional recognition
• Fees and charges
• Career opportunities
• Course learning outcomes
• Course rules
• Majors
• Course structure
• Admission criteria
• Academic requirements - Current or recent secondary education
• Academic requirements - Higher education study
• Academic requirements - VET study
• Academic requirements - Work and life experience
• English language proficiency requirements
• Admissions information
• Pathways
• Credit for prior learning - general
• Articulated courses
• Workload
• Work experience
• Participation requirements
• Mandatory student checks
• Selection adjustment

Course overview

Join the No. 1 sport science school in the world^*- ranked top globally for five years running -by studying Deakin's Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science. This accredited course provides a pathway to join  Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and practise as an Accredited Exercise Scientist. You will learn how to apply knowledge and skills in exercise and sport science to improve the performance, health and participation of individuals, athletes and teams.
 
Develop the skills to lead in exercise and sport science and allied fields, with a focus on the physiological, anatomical and behavioural foundation of exercise and sport science. Learn in world-class facilities at our Elite Sports Precinct in Geelong or our Specialised Indoor Exercise and Sport Science building in Burwood. The course includes 220 hours of practical experience – more than any comparable accredited program in Victoria – meaning you'll graduate job-ready with an advantage.

Why not fulfil your potential in the world of exercise and sport science and graduate with a practical degree that lets you hit the ground running in the industry?

• applied sport science
• disability and inclusion
• exercise physiology
• family, society and health
• health promotion
• nutrition
• physical activity and health
• psychology
• sport coaching and coaching ecosystems
• sports nutrition
• strength and conditioning.

• AFL/AFLW football clubs
• VFL/VFLW football clubs
• Football Federation Victoria
• Cricket Australia
• Tennis Australia
• WNBL clubs
• private strength and conditioning and high-performance centres (including Institutes of Sport)
• recreational gyms
• rehabilitation clinics.

Professional recognition

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA)

Be a sought-after accredited Exercise Scientist. When you graduate with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, you will be eligible to apply for accreditation with the peak national accrediting body Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Deakin was first to achieve this nationally recognised accreditation in Victoria, a result of our long-standing commitment to high education standards and curriculum delivery in sport. For more information please refer to the ESSA-accredited course application process .

Recognition of Prior Learning will only be awarded based on formal learning, which includes at a minimum documented learning outcomes and assessments (eg. course transcripts and course completion certificates). Students who received credits based on informal learning (eg. work experience) will need to apply to become an accredited Exercise Scientist via the non-ESSA accredited course application pathway .

ESSA has implemented a new English language requirement if you’re seeking initial accreditation to show English language competence. Find out if you need to take an English language test. If you have any questions about this new requirement, please contact ESSA on 07 3171 3335 or info@essa.org.au.

If you chose to undertake the nutrition major, you will also be eligible to apply for student membership with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) while studying. Upon graduation you may be eligible to apply for ordinary membership of NSA or apply to become a registered Associate Nutritionist. Registration will ensure you are recognised as a qualified nutrition professional in the field.

Fees and charges

The tuition fees you pay are determined by the course you are enrolled in. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.

Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.

You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.

Learn more about international student fees.

Career opportunities

Take advantage of Australia’s thriving $17.8 billion sport industry.^{^} As a graduate of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science you can look forward to diverse career opportunities across a wide range of organisations. Accredited Exercise Scientists are qualified to prescribe exercise to improve health, wellbeing, fitness and performance, and to assist in the prevention of chronic conditions, at an individual, community or population level. As well as typical roles in the sport, exercise, coaching and fitness industries, you may pursue employment in sports science, community health and wellness, or rehabilitation.

With Deakin ranked the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment, you will graduate with the confidence to step into your career and thrive.

Upon graduating, you may find employment opportunities in:

• elite, professional sporting clubs
• local and state government agencies
• professional sporting bodies
• local and community sporting clubs
• hospital and rehabilitation clinics
• fitness and aquatic centres
• private health and recreation centres
• large organisations in corporate health
• local councils, government and non-government organisations.

After successfully completing the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, you may consider applying for further study to advance your career in the exercise and sport science industry. We offer:

• Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (Honours)
• Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Master of Applied Sport Science

As a graduate of the #1 ranked sport science school in the world^* for five consecutive years, you will be prepared to lead in exercise and sport science, and allied fields with the confidence to succeed in a wide range of industries. Be ready for Australia’s golden decade of sport, visit our  exercise and sport sciences careers page to discover the exciting range of careers that you could pursue.

^{^} Sport in Australia - Market Research Report (2013-2028) 
^*ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021 - 2025

Course learning outcomes

Course rules

To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:

• DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
• HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
• 16 credit points of core units
• 8 credit points of open elective units which may form a major sequence
• a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
• a minimum of 14 credit points studied at level 2 or 3
• a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3

Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.

All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

Majors

Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.

• Exercise Physiology
• Applied Sport Science
• Physical Activity and Health
• Sports Nutrition
• Sport Coaching and Coaching Ecosystems *
• Strength and Conditioning
• Psychology - Individual units may not be available on every campus
• Nutrition
• Health Promotion
• Family, Society and Health
• Disability and Inclusion

Note * minor available

Students can choose to undertake majors from other courses as long as they can fit the major into their course structure and the majors are available for you to undertake.

Please ensure you discuss your request with your Course Adviser to ensure you are still meeting your course rules

Bachelor of Health Sciences

Bachelor of Commerce

Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Science

Course structure

Core units

Level 1 - Trimester 1

plus one elective unit (recommended from level 1)

Level 1 - Trimester 2

plus one elective unit (recommended from level 1)

Level 2 - Trimester 1

plus one elective units (recommended from level 1 or level 2)

Level 2 - Trimester 2

plus one elective unit (recommended from level 2 or level 3)

Level 3 - Trimester 1

plus two elective unit (recommended from level 2 or level 3)

Level 3 - Trimester 2

plus two elective units (recommended from level 2 or level 3)

* Unit also available in Trimester 3

^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure

Electives

Exercise and Sport Science elective units

Electives are offered subject to availability of resources and quotas where applicable.

Level 1 - Trimester 1

Level 1 - Trimester 2

Level 2 - Trimester 1

Level 2 - Trimester 2

Level 3 - Trimester 1

Level 3 - Trimester 2

Level 3 - Trimester 3

H718 Master of Dietetics Pre-Requisite units information

Students wishing to be eligible to enrol in postgraduate dietetics at Deakin should refer to the H718 Master of Dietetics Pre-requisite unit information

Work-Integrated Learning

^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure.

Admission criteria

Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.

If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.

Academic requirements

Academic requirements - Current or recent secondary education

If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

Year 12 prerequisite subjects

• Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 25 in English other than EAL

ATAR

• Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent

Academic requirements - Higher education study

If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

• successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)

Academic requirements - VET study

If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

• completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
• completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
• at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline

Academic requirements - Work and life experience

If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven’t undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.

Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.

English language proficiency requirements

To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:

• Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 30 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 25 in any other English
• IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
• other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)

Admissions information

Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.

Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.

Pathways

This course can be a pathway to:

• H442 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (Honours)
• H513 Graduate Certificate of Strength and Conditioning 
• H514 Graduate Certificate of Sport Performance Analysis 
• H607 Graduate Diploma of Applied Sport Science
• H743 Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology

Credit for prior learning - general

If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for Recognition of prior learning. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your Recognition of prior learning.

Your Recognition of prior learning is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.

You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

Students who are seeking Recognition of prior learning based on non-formal studies (eg. work experience) and wish to apply for ESSA professional accreditation please refer to Professional Recognition section on this course page. You can obtain further clarification from a student adviser by submitting an enquiry or call 9251 7777.

Articulated courses

Course duration

Course duration

You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.

Workload

As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.

Work experience

Work Integrated Learning

The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science features compulsory practical experience through work-based practicum, so you can start your career before you graduate with hands-on work placement experience.

You can undertake hands-on experience in a variety of sporting, exercise or health environments. These may vary from local, state or national sporting organisations and professional sporting clubs; state and national institutes of sport; as well as health, fitness and exercise physiology rehabilitation providers. The roles can involve coaching, sport science, sports administration, sport management, exercise physiology and fitness, while many graduates have been offered subsequent employment based on their excellent practicum/fieldwork performance.

To meet the ESSA professional standards for accreditation, at least 80 hours of course practicum hours must demonstrate attainment of competency in exercise assessment, prescription and delivery.

The units comprising of the practical experience outlined above are HSE312 Exercise and Sports Science Practicum (140 hours) and HSE302 Exercise Programming (80 hours).

Participation requirements

The course contains compulsory practicum placements designed to meet the ESSA Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) professional standards. Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.

Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.

If you are an athlete registered with the Deakin Elite Athlete program. additional supports may be available to help you manage placement and course participation requirements.

Mandatory student checks

Working with Children Check

Applicants will be required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for the relevant state prior to undertaking placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement units.

Police record check

Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement units.

Selection adjustment

Subject adjustment

A study score of 35 in Biology, any English, Health And Human Development, Outdoor And Environmental Studies or Physical Education equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics or Physics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Biology, any English, Health And Human Development,Maths: General Mathematics, Outdoor And Environmental Studies or Physical Education equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.

Elite Athlete program

Student athletes may be eligible to receive 5 bonus aggregate points. Applicants wishing to be considered for an elite athlete bonus must complete a personal statement indicating how their studies have been impacted by participation in sport at an elite level. Applicants must also provide documented evidence of their participation in sport at an elite level to be considered for this.

Access and equity

Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.