Course overview
Join the #1 sport science school in the world* by studying Deakin's Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science. The course provides an accredited pathway for you to be eligible to join Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and practice 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 become a professional leader in exercise and sport science and allied fields, with a focus on the biological, sociological 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?
Deakin’s Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science is the first and longest-standing undergraduate course in Victoria and our world-class facilities allow you to learn in elite environments. The Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus’ Elite Sports Precinct supports the activities of a wide range of athletes, from the Geelong Cats AFL and AFLW teams, to the student-based Deakin Ducks Soccer Club, opening the door to exciting placement opportunities for students. Our Specialised Indoor Exercise and Sport Science Building at the Melbourne Burwood Campus features some of Australia's most advanced sport and exercise facilities including a climate chamber, and biomechanics and motor learning laboratories and is home to the Deakin Clinical Exercise Centre (DCEC).
Develop the expertise to become a professional leader in exercise and sport science, studying anatomy and physiology, technology, behaviour and best practices that underpin exercise and sport science. Tailor the course to your interests and career goals, choosing from the following majors:
- 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.
You will have the opportunity to participate in work experience placements in a variety of environments such as:
- 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.
All students participate in two industry-based practical experiences. In second year, students complete 80 hours of practical experience at a pre-approved host organisation through the Exercise Programming unit. The Exercise and Sports Science Practicum in final year provides a minimum 140 hours of practical experiences. These are a core feature of the course which, combined with career mentoring by staff in particular units, set you apart from other graduates.
As a graduate of the #1 ranked sport science school in the world*, you will be prepared to be a leader in exercise and sport science, and allied fields, and can look forward to exciting employment opportunities across multiple industries. Visit our exercise and sport science careers page to discover the wide range of careers that you could pursue.
Are you a current Year 12 student? If you attend a school in a regional or remote area or within the Greater City of Geelong you may be eligible to apply for this course through our Regional and Remote Entry Scheme using our dedicated VTAC codes. As an eligible applicant you may also receive up to a 10 aggregate point adjustment towards your entry score. Make the most of your ATAR.
Discover our sport courses.
*Shanghai Ranking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Read MoreKey dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
1400310381 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) - Regional and Remote
1400314411 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514411 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- H343
- CRICOS code?
- 045332G Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science students must attain 24 credit points. Most units (think of units as 'subjects') are equal to 1 credit point. In order to gain 24 credit points you will need to study 24 units (AKA 'subjects'). Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester and usually undertaken in two trimesters each year.
The course comprises 24 credit points which includes 16 core units (these are compulsory) and 8 elective units (you can choose which ones to study). No more than 10 credit points may be taken at level 1 and at least 6 credit points must be taken at level 3.
Also, you can select elective units to form a major sequence. Majors can be selected from within the Faculty of Health or any other Faculty, subject to availability and pre-requisites. Majors may include applied sport science, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, sport coaching, nutrition, physical activity and health, health promotion, management, sports nutrition, marketing, languages or media.
All commencing Faculty of Health Undergraduate and Postgraduate course work students are required to complete DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first trimester of study.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
16
Compulsory units
8
Elective units
24
Total
Core units
Course structure applies for students who commenced in 2022 onwards. Students who commenced prior to 2022 should refer to previous online Handbooks or contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
Please refer to the Course Map page for course map information.
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
Major sequences
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
- Exercise Physiology - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Applied Sport Science - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Physical Activity and Health - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong),
- Sports Nutrition - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Sport Coaching and Coaching Ecosystems - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Strength and Conditioning - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Psychology - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online. Individual units may not be available on every campus
- Nutrition - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Health Promotion - Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong),Online
- Family, Society and Health - Burwood (Melbourne), Online
- Disability and Inclusion - Burwood (Melbourne), Online
Note: Minor sequences are not available to H343 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science students.
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
Elective units
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
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Course structure applies for students who commenced in 2022 onwards. Students who commenced prior to 2022 should refer to previous online Handbooks or contact a Student Adviser in Student Central.
Please refer to the Course Map page for course map information.
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Work-Integrated Learning
^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure.
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
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.
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.
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.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability and/or athletes registered with the Deakin Elite Athlete program.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.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 have the opportunity to 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).
Entry requirements
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
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
Higher education
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)
Vocational education
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
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)
Selection adjustments
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, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Maths: Further Mathematics or Physical Education equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Regional and Remote Entry Scheme
Current year 12 students from regional and remote areas who apply to study this course at Waurn Ponds campus may be eligible for additional aggregate points to their selection rank through Deakin's Regional and Remote Entry Scheme. Learn more about this scheme, eligibility and how to apply.
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. Learn more about the Elite Athlete Program eligibility and how to apply.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
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 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – 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.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater.
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 in this handbook.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. 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 time it takes to complete 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 8 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 fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2025 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2021? Follow these how to apply steps.
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science with our pathways finder.
This course can be a pathway to:
Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (Honours) (H442)
Master of Applied Sport Science (H707)
Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology (H743)
Articulated courses
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Monday - Friday
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Take advantage of Australia’s golden decade of sport and the significant industry growth that it is driving. As a graduate of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science 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.
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.
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*, you will be prepared to be a leader in exercise and sport science, and allied fields, and can look forward to employment opportunities across multiple 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.
*Shanghai Ranking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021, 2022 and 2023.
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 or reinstating 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.
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and well-developed theoretical and technical knowledge within the broad disciplines of exercise and sport science. |
| Communication | Demonstrate clear and accurate communication using a range of modes to select and deliver relevant information. |
| Digital literacy | Use a range of digital tools within exercise and sport science environments to accurately and efficiently locate, evaluate, and disseminate information, including the collection and analysis of data. |
| Critical thinking | Use information from multiple sources of evidence to inform decision making applied to exercise and sport science. |
| Problem solving | Independently deconstruct a range of real world and complex problems within exercise and sport science environments to formulate, execute and evaluate possible solutions. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate the capacity to learn and work independently, taking personal responsibility for actions and outcomes commensurate with priorities and timeframes established both personally and by others. |
| Teamwork | Consistently demonstrate professional behaviours while making effective contributions across a range of roles when undertaking collaborative work within intra- and inter-disciplinary teams. |
| Global citizenship | Practise ethical and professional behaviours with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, diverse global and local perspectives in exercise and sport science. |
Why Sport | Inspiring the next generation with Lauren Skopal
From performing around the world as an acrobat, to founding Limber Sports Performance, Lauren is committed to developing the next generation of athletes. Discover how our Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science helped her turn her passion into a career.
Footnotes
*ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021, 2022, 2023
+Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our list of media references.