Program Overview

Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science

The Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science is a three-year full-time or equivalent part-time degree that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of exercise and sports science. Ranked fourth in sport science in Australia and 22nd globally, this program is accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) at the exercise science level.

Course Overview

Through this degree, students will learn how to improve the health, performance, and participation of individuals, teams, and athletes through exercise programming and delivery, athlete training, and health advice. The program is connected to a range of sporting organizations, providing students with outstanding opportunities for industry placements and future employment in Australia and around the world.

Professional Experience

Students must complete 40 hours of community engagement and 140 hours of professional experience (practicum) as part of course accreditation requirements. This includes two units of compulsory professional experience, where students will spend time in organizations integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

Accreditation

The Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science is accredited with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) at the exercise science level for the Strathfield, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Blacktown campuses until 2028. Upon graduation, students can expect to be able to attain individual accreditation with ESSA and work or practice as an Accredited Exercise Scientist.

Careers

Graduates of this program have pursued careers in:

• Professional sporting organizations
• National sporting organizations
• National institutes of sport
• State institutes or academies of sport
• State sporting organizations
• The health, fitness, and recreation industries
• Academia

Industry Partnerships

ACU works with a variety of industry partners, including:

• Tennis Australia
• Baseball Queensland
• Wests Tigers Rugby League Football Club
• Paddle Australia, Canoe Slalom High-Performance Team
• Brisbane Roar Football Club
• Queensland Reds
• Norths Devils
• North Melbourne Football Club
• Core Advantage

Course Structure

To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science, students must complete 240 credit points (cp). The course structure includes:

• Specified units in areas such as anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and sports psychology
• Community engagement units
• Professional experience units
• Elective units

Course Map

The course map outlines the units to be completed each semester. Students can choose from different course maps, including:

• Commencing Semester 1
• Commencing Semester 2
• Commencing Semester 1 - Transition from Diploma in Exercise Science (superseded)
• Commencing Semester 2 - Transition from Diploma in Exercise Science

Graduate Statement

As an ACU graduate, students will have personal insight founded on an understanding of who they are as a professional, a citizen, and a scholar. They will value human dignity and diversity, utilize imagination and innovation to solve problems, and recognize their responsibility to work for social justice and a sustainable world.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the course, applicants must have completed the following prerequisites at year 12 level or equivalent:

• English (Standard) Band 3
• Health and Movement Science 11-12
• Mathematics (any) or one of Biology, Chemistry, or Physics

Pathways

There are several pathways into the course, including:

• Pathways for current or recent Year 12 students
• Pathways for applicants with previous study and/or life experience
• Further study options, including postgraduate programs in sport and exercise science

Fees

The average first-year fee for the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science is $14,446 (CSP). Students should be aware that fees may vary depending on the number of units studied per year, choice of major or specialization, and elective units.

Scholarships

ACU offers a range of scholarships to help students with the cost of studying, accommodation, or overseas study opportunities. Some scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit, while others recognize excellence in community engagement and leadership or support students who may be struggling financially or have faced other barriers to accessing education.

How to Apply

Domestic applicants can apply through their local Tertiary Admission Centre (TAC). International applicants can apply directly to ACU. Deferment is available for one year.