Start Date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBXN

SATAC Code
414471 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 90.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): A,A,A
TAFE/RTO: DIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 80.00
TAFE/RTO: Dip
View full entry requirements

Degree overview

  • Combine your passion for health and exercise with nutrition, and graduate with two highly complementary qualifications with only one extra year of study.
  • Study South Australia’s first fully accredited exercise and sport science degree by Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA).
  • Become an expert in the impact of exercise and nutrition on the biological, psychological and social aspects of human performance and wellbeing.
  • Study at a university ranked 35th in the world for sports science.1
  • Choose South Australia’s No.1 university for graduate careers.2
  • Benefit from UniSA’s expansive industry partnerships when you complete 140 hours of industry placement across sporting clubs, gyms and fitness centres, schools and more.
  • Learn from expert academics and world-class researchers, including Australia’s leading exercise scientists and nutrition experts.
  • Access dedicated facilities designed for exercise testing and performance analysis, as well as a nutrition hub.
  • Learn from a university with well above world-class research in exercise and sport science, as well as nutrition and dietetics.3
  • UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,4 we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

12021 Shanghai Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments. 2ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. 32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 4Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Exercise and sport science students using the High Performance Centre Start your unstoppable career in the world of human health and wellbeing with a double degree in exercise and sport science, combined with nutrition and food science.

Studying exercise and sport science will equip you with expertise on the impact of exercise and physical activity on the biological, physiological, psychological and social aspects of human life. Your additional study in nutrition and food sciences will give you hands-on experience in promoting and managing diets and lifestyles, conducting meaningful research for enhanced wellbeing, and developing innovative foods.

As two complimentary areas of health, your career opportunities are diverse. You could be at the forefront of innovation in the food and nutrition industries, with opportunities to go into scientific and advisory roles. You could also design, deliver and assess exercise and physical activity programs to improve the health and wellbeing of clients, their performance, or to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Further study opportunities may include a Master of Research (Health Sciences) or Master of Health Services Management.

What you'll need

Students who undertake activities where interaction with patients/the public is required for their degree, such as field or clinical placements/visits and in University clinics and gyms, must demonstrate they meet mandatory pre-placement conditional requirements. These include criminal history clearance, a Working with Children Check and immunisation requirements.

Please visit the Clinical Placement Unit for information on key requirements, and to access the full student checklists.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

Through theoretical and practical learning, you’ll become an expert in all aspects of exercise and sport science, and graduate with the skills needed to design, implement and evaluate exercise and physical activity programs.

The exercise and sport science component prepares you to provide exercise advice, deliver strength and conditioning services, biomechanical analyses, and skill acquisition knowledge to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of generally healthy individuals, ranging from children to elite athletes to older persons.

The nutrition and food sciences component will teach you to understand diets and lifestyles for optimum health and the associations between nutrient intake, energy output and physical health and performance. You’ll also learn how to manage and improve nutrition and diet related to physical activity and lifestyle changes, and how to maximise physical performance for healthy, active people.  

During the first two years you’ll learn about nutrition and study exercise and sport science courses, which will give you a solid foundation in:

  • human anatomy and physiology
  • fundamental movement skills
  • skill acquisition
  • chemistry and biology

The third and fourth years have a strong practical focus. You'll develop critical thinking and practice-based skills through learning about:

  • exercise prescription and delivery
  • relationship between food bioactives, functional foods and medicines
  • developing personalised dietary and exercise plans to manage weight
  • nutrition for sports, exercise and activity

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Periods 1, 2 or 3)
Physical Activity and Health HLTH 1044 4.5
Physiology Essentials 100 BIOL 1051 4.5
Foundations in Human Movement, Exercise and Sports Science HLTH 1039 4.5
OR
Introduction to Nutrition and Food Sciences 1 BIOL 1041 4.5
Chemistry 100 CHEM 1006 4.5
Second Semester (Study Periods 4, 5 or 6)
Group and Team Leadership HLTH 1017 4.5
Motor Development and Ageing HLTH 1065 4.5
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences HLTH 1049 4.5
OR
Quantitative Methods in Health MATH 1065 4.5
Chemistry of Food FOSC 2002 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Periods 1, 2 or 3)
Exercise Physiology 1 HLTH 2006 4.5
Human Nutrition HLTH 2001 4.5
Human Anatomy 100 HLTH 1020 4.5
Biology A BIOL 1007 4.5
Second Semester (Study Periods 4, 5 or 6)
Exercise Physiology 2 HLTH 2005 4.5
Functional Anatomy HLTH 1045 4.5
Food Innovation and Culinary Nutrition FOSC 2007 4.5
Sensory and Consumer Evaluation of Foods FOSC 2004 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Periods 1, 2 or 3)
Motor Control and Learning HLTH 2026 4.5
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 1 HLTH 2027 4.5
Biochemistry BIOL 2014 4.5
Microbiology BIOL 2051 4.5
Second Semester (Study Periods 4, 5 or 6)
Biomechanics of Human Movement HLTH 2025 4.5
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 2 HLTH 3011 4.5
Health, Exercise and Sport Psychology HLTH 3014 4.5
Lifespan Physiology BIOL 2052 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Periods 1, 2 or 3)
Exercise and Sport Science Project Design HLTH 3053 4.5
Communication in Nutrition and Food Sciences FOSC 3014 4.5
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Management HLTH 3001 4.5
Professional Practice in Exercise Science HLTH 3054 4.5
Second Semester (Study Periods 4, 5 or 6)
Sociology of Health, Physical Activity and Sport HLTH 3055 4.5
Food Safety and Regulation FOSC 2006 4.5
Sports Nutrition HLTH 3002 4.5
Biochemistry of Human Metabolism BIOL 3035 4.5

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week. 

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • presentations and portfolios
  • quizzes
  • research assignments
  • practical projects and case studies
  • essays and assignments
  • examinations

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences

Students in the nutrition and food science hub commercial kitchen Graduate with two highly complimentary degrees with just one extra year of study, with a unique set of health skills relevant to current and emerging market trends.

UniSA offers the first fully accredited exercise and sport science degree in South Australia.1 You'll benefit from practical learning opportunities and be guided by leading exercise and nutrition experts, while studying from a curriculum informed by our above world-class research in nutrition and dietetics, as well as exercise and sports science.2 UniSA is also home to the highly regarded Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA).

You’ll build industry connections while you study, from industry placements with a range of elite and local sporting organisations to field trips at South Australia’s major nutrition and food providers.

You’ll train in UniSA’s dedicated on-campus facilities including a purpose-built sensory laboratory, microbiology laboratory and commercial kitchen. There is also the High Performance Sport Centre, exercise physiology clinics, environmental chamber and UniSA Sport gyms. Learning in these facilities is a great way to develop practical skills and experience the hands-on nature of these fast-growing industries.

Graduates are eligible to apply to become an Accredited Exercise Scientist through Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA).

1Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Real-world connections

UniSA has strong alliances with industry, ranging from elite and local sporting clubs to not-for-profit organisations.

You’ll complete a minimum of 140 hours of exercise science industry placement, further enhancing your networks and relationships with industry. Our industry placement providers include elite and community sports clubs, public and private schools, gyms and fitness centres, aged care, local councils and not-for-profit organisations. Examples of hands-on placement opportunities include:

  • working with older adults in community settings, including aged care
  • empowering athletes at amateur or elite sporting clubs
  • supporting serving and veteran service personnel and first responders as part of the Invictus Pathways Program

As part of your nutrition and food science stream, you’ll attend field trips to some of the state’s major nutrition and food providers, which are a great opportunities to build your industry relationships. 

We also host regular University-wide alumni events, employee master classes and employment expos in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

As the health, nutrition, exercise and wellness industries continue to grow, employment prospects for graduates are promising. Employment for nutrition professionals in Australia is projected to increase by 7.2% by November 2026.1

Careers to consider include:

  • Exercise scientist: assist people to increase their fitness, sporting performance and general health using a combination of biomechanics, physiology and performance analysis.
  • Physical training specialist: advise clients on exercise, health, wellbeing and nutrition; develop and implement individual training plans.
  • Sports and fitness nutritionist: responsible for improving the health and optimising the performance of athletes and exercisers.
  • Food scientist: use chemistry and biology to look at the microbiological, chemical and physical properties of food and ingredients. Analyse nutritional content, discover new food sources, and ensure the manufacturing process is safe.
  • Product development manager: develop innovative products and solutions to meet strategic business objectives.
  • Researcher: plan and conduct laboratory-based investigations, experiments and trials, and analyse results in order to broaden scientific understanding.
  • Community nutritionist: create changes in attitude toward nutrition and health; provide advice, guidance and support to the community.
  • Health promotion officer: plan and coordinate health promotion programs for various community groups.
  • Community sports project officer: develop, coordinate and manage programs delivered by community sport organisations.
  • Food policy advisor: offer qualified health and nutrition advice to the public.
  • Flavour technologist: sample products and conduct experiments to alter the ingredients in food and beverages to make it taste better, replicate a taste, or develop a new taste.
  • Health promotion officer: use social and environmental interventions to improve the health of groups and individuals.

1Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is accredited by Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Graduates satisfy the academic requirements and are eligible to apply for registration as an Accredited Exercise Scientist through ESSA. Requirements for registration as determined by ESSA are available on their website.

Industry facts

job-listings

Employment for sport and fitness coaches, instructors and officials in Australia is projected to increase by 9.8% by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

data-presentation

Employment for nutrition professionals in Australia is projected to increase by 7.2% by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

column-chart-growth

To November 2026, healthcare and social assistance is projected to make the largest contribution to employment growth in Australia – an increase of 301,000 jobs.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

  • Go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply.
  • You will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International

There are other pathways you can follow to study this program, including:

    Deferment

    This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.

    Scholarships

    Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

    More scholarships

    Your study experience and support

    Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.

    Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

    Student services

    Student services

    Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

    • academic counselling
    • personal counselling
    • social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
    • common rooms
    • prayer rooms
    • security officers
    • career services and mentoring
    • Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
    • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

    When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

    24/7 digital environment

    Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

    Student services

    Your campus

    We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

    Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

    Your study spaces

    UniSA Sport Gym.jpg

    As a hands-on degree, you’ll benefit from UniSA’s practical approach to learning. You'll have access to facilities including:

    From 2025, students in our Human Movement, Exercise and Sport Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology programs will benefit from an integrated practical learning experience with the South Australian Sports Institute (SASI). You can study alongside elite athletes and leading industry experts, and learn how to use the latest equipment and sport science technology in new, purpose-built facilities.

    You’ll also have access to a range of on-campus spaces including modern lecture theatres, collaborative teaching rooms and relaxed student lounges.

    Your program director

    I am proud to direct a program that is delivered by a team of highly-qualified researchers and educators with a genuine interest in developing students into industry ready graduates. This Exercise and Sports Science Australia accredited program utilises innovative and safe learning environments, and offers opportunities for practical experience within industry settings, to enable students to pursue excellence and fulfil their highest potential.

    Dr Tom Wycherley

    Program Director

    Enquire
    Portrait image for Dr Tom Wycherley
    Portrait image for Dr Tom Wycherley

    Dr Tom Wycherley

    Program Director

    Enquire

    Ask UniSA

    • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

      The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

      The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

      There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

      If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

      You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

      If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

    • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

      Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

      Undergraduate

      The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

      Postgraduate

      Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

      As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

    • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

      You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

    • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

      Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

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