Program Overview

Master of Sport and Exercise Science by Research

The Master of Sport and Exercise Science by Research is a postgraduate degree that targets the development of research skills in sport and exercise science, in combination with skills required for specialist qualification as an accredited sport scientist (ESSA ASpS Level 1). Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA), the national accreditation body for exercise and sport science disciplines, defines an Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) as the base level of qualification in this discipline.

Program Structure

A Higher Degree by Research (HDR) is a supervised research program that requires undertaking original research, resulting in a thesis, or a thesis and exegesis. During the Master by Research program, Master by Research candidates are required to achieve several milestones that relate to their research training. Milestones are program requirements and periodic assessments of candidature progression. Milestones are distributed throughout HDR candidature providing structure and mechanism for regular review and feedback on progress towards both the research project and attainment of the Universitys Research Graduate Attributes.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission to a research Master degree, an applicant must hold:

• a Bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher on a seven point scale from a recognised higher education institution; or
• a Bachelor Honours degree (AQF Level 8) Class IIB from a recognised higher education institution; or
• a record of qualifications and/or professional research experience deemed to be equivalent to the standard of (a) or (b) as may be approved by the Research Degrees Committee, or the Chairperson acting on behalf of the Committee. The prior study must be in an area of study relevant to the discipline area of the Master degree. If the prior study has not included an appropriate preparation in research methodology, the candidate will be required to undertake an appropriate research methodology course, as specified by the relevant Head of School, as part of their candidature.

English Language Requirements

You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSCs programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).

Fees and Scholarships

Annual tuition fee (A$, 2026): A$32,500. International student fee information is available on the Tuition fees and other costs page. For information on how higher degree by research student fees are calculated, including the Student Services and Amenities Fee, visit the Higher Degree by Research Student Fee Calculation Information page. Visit the HDR scholarships page for information on available scholarships.

Location and Duration

• Location: Sunshine Coast
• Duration: 2 years full-time or equivalent part-time. Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.

Program Details

• CRICOS code: D
• UniSC program code: SC806
• Delivery mode: Blended Learning
• In this program, you will complete two required research courses and an original thesis on a topic of your choice.