Why Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science?
Leverage your knowledge of physical activity, health and sports performance.
Want to train elite athletes for the Olympics? Aspire to coach a national team? Maybe you want to lead as a fitness trainer or specialise in rehabilitation? Inspire people to be healthier and more active and perform at their best with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science.
Become a leader in the exciting field of sports science. Discover the long-term positive effects of exercise on people’s physical and mental health. Gain knowledge and skills to increase athletic performance and wellbeing. Enhance your networks and relationships with industry to work in a range of positions from sport to aged care.
Overview
Unlock opportunities for dynamic careers in health, fitness and sports with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science.
Become an expert in understanding the positive effects of exercise. Gain the knowledge and skills to increase athletic performance and wellbeing. Benefit from practical learning opportunities. Learn from leading exercise and sport science experts.
Learn how to design, deliver and assess exercise and physical activity programs to improve the health, wellbeing and performance of clients. Gain valuable exposure to high profile exercise and sport science industry partners from a range of elite and local sporting organisations through placement.
Adelaide University is also home to the highly regarded Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA).Tackle the growing epidemic of chronic disease and create solutions to optimise health, function and wellbeing.
The demand for professionals in exercise and sport science is expected to grow. Take advantage of the increasing public interest in health and fitness. Guided by leading exercise and sport science experts, you’ll turn your passion for exercise into an exciting career.
Key features
Study the impact of exercise on human performance and wellbeing. - Complete 140 hours of industry placement across sporting clubs, gyms and fitness centres and schools.
- Gain insights from expert academics, exercise scientists and world-class researchers.
- Learn in dedicated facilities designed for exercise testing and performance analysis.
- Take your learning overseas with a study tour.
- Elevate your career options with a double degree in complementary fields, including Nutrition and Food Sciences or Psychology.
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science is a comprehensive 3-year program. You’ll develop effective practical and communication skills to conduct laboratory and field testing and interpret scientific research. Learn how to conduct physical performance tests to measure strength, fitness, oxygen usage and body composition.
This degree prepares you to confidently advise on exercise plans and deliver strength and conditioning services. The program teaches biomechanical analyses to enhance people’s physical and mental wellbeing – from children to elite athletes to the elderly.
During your first year you’ll develop a solid understanding of:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Physical activity and health
- Fundamental movement skills
- Research methods and statistics
- Group and team psychology.
In your second year you'll focus on:
- Skill acquisition
- Exercise prescription and delivery
- Exercise and health psychology
- Nutrition
- Exercise physiology
- Biomechanics.
In your final year, you'll learn how to use exercise science and understand the social aspects of health and physical activity.
You can also tailor your degree with a range of elective courses aligned with your career aspirations. Some of these courses will allow you to upskill. They can provide you with additional industry certificates on successful completion in areas such as Level 1 Sports Training. Benefit from Adelaide University's on-campus facilities. Discover the High-Performance Sport Centre, exercise physiology clinics, Environmental Chamber and Adelaide University Sport gyms. Learning in these facilities is a great way to develop practical skills and experience the hands-on nature of this growing industry.
You’ll connect with top industry players, from elite sports clubs to local community groups. Complete over 140 hours of industry placement to build valuable networks and gain hands-on experience. You might empower athletes at amateur or elite clubs. Perhaps you’ll work with older adults in community aged care.
Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning. Assessments will include presentations, research proposals, exams, self-evaluations and quizzes.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 108 units for all Core courses, and
- 6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 30 units for Electives
Complete 108 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Human Anatomy 100
|
Course code
BIOL1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physiology Essentials 100
|
Course code
BIOL1020
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 1
|
Course code
EDUC3050
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 2
|
Course code
EDUC3051
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exercise Physiology 1
|
Course code
HBIO1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exercise Physiology 2
|
Course code
HBIO2059
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Motor Control and Learning
|
Course code
HBIO2061
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Physical Activity and Health
|
Course code
HLTH1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations in Human Movement, Exercise and Sports Science
|
Course code
HLTH1011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences
|
Course code
HLTH1016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Functional Anatomy
|
Course code
HLTH1051
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health, Exercise and Sport Psychology
|
Course code
HLTH3005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Exercise and Sport Science Project Design
|
Course code
HLTH3011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sociology of Health, Physical Activity and Sport
|
Course code
HLTH3013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Motor Development and Ageing
|
Course code
HUMV1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biomechanics of Human Movement
|
Course code
HUMV2002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Nutrition
|
Course code
NUTR2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Group and Team Leadership
|
Course code
PSIO3002
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks. These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.
2. Students must have a 'Provide First Aid Certificate', Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (CPR) and Mandatory Notification Training Certificate, prior to the commencement of any field placement.
3. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.
4. Students must complete at least three level 3 electives. One elective may be chosen from outside the Elective Groups listed. Additional electives from outside the Elective Groups listed can only be taken with the Program Director's permission.
5. Students who do not maintain continuous enrolment in this program after commencing work integrated learning placements, or are returning from a period of absence of more than 12 months after the 2nd year in the program will be required to undertake a competency assessment and/or recency training at an upfront cost, in addition to the program tuition fees. This is to ensure students have maintained competency in the required skills to protect the safety of the public during work integrated learning arrangements.
6. There may be incidental fees depending on the choice of elective courses throughout the degree.
7. Students can select a secondary Study Stream by selecting at least four electives from a particular elective group. However, students may select electives from a variety of elective groups.
8. It is recommended that students select 5 courses from Advanced Exercise and Sports Science, Rehabilitation Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics or Sports Coaching, but may also undertake courses from Health and Physical Education and Outdoor Education study streams.
9. All electives may not be available each year but will be offered according to student demand.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Exercise Science
|
Course code
HLTH3012
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks. These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.
2. Students must have a 'Provide First Aid Certificate', Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (CPR) and Mandatory Notification Training Certificate, prior to the commencement of any field placement.
3. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.
4. Students must complete at least three level 3 electives. One elective may be chosen from outside the Elective Groups listed. Additional electives from outside the Elective Groups listed can only be taken with the Program Director's permission.
5. Students who do not maintain continuous enrolment in this program after commencing work integrated learning placements, or are returning from a period of absence of more than 12 months after the 2nd year in the program will be required to undertake a competency assessment and/or recency training at an upfront cost, in addition to the program tuition fees. This is to ensure students have maintained competency in the required skills to protect the safety of the public during work integrated learning arrangements.
6. There may be incidental fees depending on the choice of elective courses throughout the degree.
7. Students can select a secondary Study Stream by selecting at least four electives from a particular elective group. However, students may select electives from a variety of elective groups.
8. It is recommended that students select 5 courses from Advanced Exercise and Sports Science, Rehabilitation Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics or Sports Coaching, but may also undertake courses from Health and Physical Education and Outdoor Education study streams.
9. All electives may not be available each year but will be offered according to student demand.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Complete 30 units for one of the following:
- 0 to 30 units from Program electives - Advanced Exercise and Sport Science, or
- 0 to 30 units from Program electives - Health and Physical Education, or
- 0 to 30 units from Program electives - Health Promotion, or
- 0 to 24 units from Program electives - Nutrition, or
- 0 to 30 units from Program electives - Outdoor Education, or
- 0 to 30 units from Program electives - Rehabilitation Sciences, or
- 0 to 24 units from Program electives - Sports Coaching, or
- 0 to 18 units from Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Exercise Assessment and Reasoning
|
Course code
HLTH1056
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Anthropometry and Body Image
|
Course code
HLTH3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sports Biomechanics
|
Course code
HUMV3000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Movement Neuroscience
|
Course code
HUMV3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
UO Adapted Physical Activity, Exercise and Sport
|
Course code
HUMV3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Exercise Physiology
|
Course code
PSIO3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Performance Analysis and Player Monitoring
|
Course code
SOCI3003
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Teaching and Coaching
|
Course code
HLTH1007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Risks and Relationship Education
|
Course code
HLTH2004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Dance as Education and Recreation
|
Course code
EDUC3021
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Game, Sports Theory, Practice and Participation
|
Course code
EDUC3022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Healthy Lifestyles
|
Course code
EDUCX301
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Active Lifestyles
|
Course code
SPOR2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Outdoor Leadership
|
Course code
SPOR2005
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Public Health
|
Course code
HLTH1010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Systems and Services
|
Course code
HLTH1012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Health Promotion Concepts
|
Course code
HLTH1013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Designing and Managing Health Projects
|
Course code
HLTH2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Public Health and Wellbeing Practice
|
Course code
HLTH3008
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Physiology
|
Course code
BIOL2032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Chemistry 100
|
Course code
CHEM1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Management
|
Course code
HLTH3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sports Nutrition
|
Course code
HLTH3004
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Leadership in Terrestrial Environments
|
Course code
HLTH3009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Outdoor, Wilderness and Adventure Education
|
Course code
HLTH3010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Aboriginal Health, Culture, Community, and Country
|
Course code
INDG1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Foundations of Outdoor Leadership
|
Course code
SPOR2005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Leadership in Aquatic Environments
|
Course code
SPOR3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Outdoor Leadership
|
Course code
SPOR3009
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Human Anatomy 200
|
Course code
BIOL2018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Anatomy 101
|
Course code
HLTH1008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Exercise Assessment and Reasoning
|
Course code
HLTH1056
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sports Nutrition
|
Course code
HLTH3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Anthropometry and Body Image
|
Course code
HLTH3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Human Movement Neuroscience
|
Course code
HUMV3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Pain Mechanisms and Management
|
Course code
REHB3010
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Teaching and Coaching
|
Course code
HLTH1007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Sports Nutrition
|
Course code
HLTH3004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Anthropometry and Body Image
|
Course code
HLTH3006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Performance Analysis and Player Monitoring
|
Course code
SOCI3003
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Small Business for Professionals
|
Course code
BUSI2013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cultural Experience in Health Science
|
Course code
HLTH3015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Peers, Relationships and Health
|
Course code
EDUC4024
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks. These checks will list disclosable court outcomes that may prevent field / clinical placement involvement and subsequently may prevent completion of the program.
2. Students must have a 'Provide First Aid Certificate', Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate (CPR) and Mandatory Notification Training Certificate, prior to the commencement of any field placement.
3. The program requires participation in practical classes where manual skills are practiced. Essential learning activities in some classes may require that students partially remove their clothing to a level that is appropriate to the learning activity. Students may also be asked to act as subjects for their peer group members. If a student is unable to meet these requirements they may be at risk of being unable to successfully complete course objectives and assessments and progress through the program.
4. Students must complete at least three level 3 electives. One elective may be chosen from outside the Elective Groups listed. Additional electives from outside the Elective Groups listed can only be taken with the Program Director's permission.
5. Students who do not maintain continuous enrolment in this program after commencing work integrated learning placements, or are returning from a period of absence of more than 12 months after the 2nd year in the program will be required to undertake a competency assessment and/or recency training at an upfront cost, in addition to the program tuition fees. This is to ensure students have maintained competency in the required skills to protect the safety of the public during work integrated learning arrangements.
6. There may be incidental fees depending on the choice of elective courses throughout the degree.
7. Students can select a secondary Study Stream by selecting at least four electives from a particular elective group. However, students may select electives from a variety of elective groups.
8. It is recommended that students select 5 courses from Advanced Exercise and Sports Science, Rehabilitation Sciences, Nutrition and Dietetics or Sports Coaching, but may also undertake courses from Health and Physical Education and Outdoor Education study streams.
9. All electives may not be available each year but will be offered according to student demand.
| Course name | Units |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 1 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Want to use your passion for exercise to transform lives and lead the future of fitness? You could work as a strength and conditioning coach preparing athletes for peak performance. You might work as a health and wellness advisor in the community, promoting exercise, healthy living and nutrition plans. Perhaps you’ll become a performance analyst, providing insights for individuals and teams to enhance performance.
Employment opportunities are diverse, and careers could include:
- Physical training specialist
- Strength and conditioning coach
- Performance analyst
- Community sports project officer
- Sports coach
- Rehabilitation specialist
- Exercise and sports science researcher.
Industry trends
As the global population ages, there is an increased need for professionals who can design and implement programs (World Health Organization Global Action Plan, 2024) to maintain the health and mobility of older adults. Enhanced techniques in performance analysis and recovery are shaping the future of sports science. There are increasing opportunities for specialisation in elite athlete training and rehabilitation. With a degree from Adelaide University, you’ll graduate highly skilled and in-demand.
Accreditation
This program is accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Graduates are eligible for registration with ESSA as an Accredited Exercise Scientist.
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
