Start Date
February
July

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBXS

SATAC Code
414461 (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

  • 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 physical activity on the biological, psychological and social aspects of human performance and wellbeing.
  • Take your place at a university ranked 35th in the world for sports science.1
  • 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 some of Australia’s leading exercise scientists, with a curriculum ranked in the top 100 worldwide.2
  • Study a curriculum informed by well above world class research in exercise and sport science.3
  • Learn in dedicated facilities designed for exercise testing and performance analysis.
  • Elevate your career options with a double degree in complimentary fields, including Nutrition and Food Sciences, or Psychology (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills).
  • 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.

1Ranked #35, 2021 Shanghai Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments. 22024 QS Subject Rankings, Sport-Related Subjects. 3Results in Human Movement and Sports Science - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 4Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Exercise and sport science students using the campus exercise physiology lab

Turn your passion for exercise into an unstoppable career, studying South Australia’s first fully accredited exercise and sport science degree1 from the state’s No.1 university for graduate careers.2

With this highly sought-after degree, you’ll become an expert in understanding the long-term positive effects of exercise on people’s physical and mental health, as well as the knowledge and skills to increase athletic performance and wellbeing. As a hands-on degree, you'll benefit from practical learning opportunities, and will be guided by leading exercise and sport science experts. 

Increase your employment opportunities by combining your exercise and sport science degree with a complimentary degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences or Psychology (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills), allowing you to graduate with two qualifications with just one year of extra study.

1Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). 2ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23– Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities.

What you'll need

Students undertaking activities involving interaction with patients/the public as part of 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

Undertaking a Vo2 Max Test

You’ll develop effective practical and communication skills to conduct laboratory and field testing, and interpret scientific research. You’ll 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 curriculum teaches biomechanical analyses and skill acquisition knowledge 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 of study, you’ll focus on professional studies, the application of exercise science, and sociology of health and physical activity. Additionally, you can tailor your degree with a range of elective courses aligned with your career aspirations. Some of these courses will allow you to upskill, as they provide you with additional industry certificates upon successful completion in areas such as Level 1 Sports Training.

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 Period 1, 2 or 3)
Human Anatomy 100 HLTH 1020 4.5
Foundations in Human Movement, Exercise and Sports Science HLTH 1039 4.5
Physiology Essentials 100 BIOL 1051 4.5
Physical Activity and Health HLTH 1044 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Group and Team Leadership HLTH 1017 4.5
Motor Development and Ageing HLTH 1065 4.5
Functional Anatomy HLTH 1045 4.5
Introduction to Evidence Based Practice and Research in Health Sciences HLTH 1049 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2, or 3)
Exercise Physiology 1 HLTH 2006 4.5
Human Nutrition HLTH 2001 4.5
Motor Control and Learning HLTH 2026 4.5
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 1 HLTH 2027 4.5
Semester 2 (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Biomechanics of Human Movement HLTH 2025 4.5
Exercise Physiology 2 HLTH 2005 4.5
Health, Exercise and Sport Psychology HLTH 3014 4.5
Exercise Prescription and Delivery 2 HLTH 3011 4.5
THIRD YEAR
Semester 1 (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Professional Practice in Exercise Science HLTH 3054 4.5
Exercise and Sport Science Project Design HLTH 3053 4.5
Elective 1 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,3,4 Rule(s): 4
Elective 2 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,3,4 Rule(s): 4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Sociology of Health, Physical Activity and Sport HLTH 3055 4.5
Elective 3 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,3,4 Rule(s): 4
Elective 4 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,3,4 Rule(s): 4
Elective 5 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,3,4 Rule(s): 4

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
  • research proposals
  • assignments
  • examinations
  • self-evaluations
  • quizzes.

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

Exercise and sport science students in an anatomy class

Ranked 35 in the world for sport science,1 UniSA’s expert teaching staff and dedicated learning facilities mean you’ll get the very best foundations for a healthy career.

This degree is a great choice for students interested in the science behind exercise and sport, to inspire all Australians to be healthier and more active, and perform at their best.

You’ll learn how to design, deliver and assess exercise and physical activity programs to improve the health, wellbeing and performance of clients, their performance and to reduce risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. You’ll also get valuable exposure to high profile exercise and sport science industry partners from a range of elite and local sporting organisations through industry placement opportunities.

You’ll benefit from UniSA's on-campus facilities including 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 this growing industry. UniSA is also heavily involved with quality research, and is home to the highly regarded Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA).

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

1Ranked #35, 2021 Shanghai Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments.  

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:

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

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

Career outcomes

Your career

Tertiary-trained exercise and sport science professionals are in growing demand.1 As the health and wellbeing industries continue to grow, employment prospects for graduates of this degree are promising. According to Exercise and Sport Science Australia’s Future Workforce Report, the increased need for effective evidence-based programming for a society with escalating chronic disease is driving this growth.

You could find yourself working in a range of positions in the sport, fitness, rehabilitation, health, government, aged care, education or recreation industries. You may also work across other industries where high levels of education, leadership, communication and organisation are valued.

Careers to consider include:

  • Exercise scientist: use a combination of biomechanics, physiology, and psychology to help assess and improve an individual’s fitness, sporting performance and general health.
  • Physical training specialist: advise clients on exercise, health, wellbeing and nutrition; develop and implement individual training plans.
  • Strength and conditioning coach: prepare athletes for high performance, enabling them the greatest advantage in competition.
  • Performance analyst: analyse performance data to provide individual and team statistics relating to key performance indicators
  • Community sports project officer: develop, coordinate and manage programs delivered by community sports organisations.
  • Health and wellness adviser: promote healthy living among community-dwelling adults and in local or state-funded government organisations.

Become even more employable by combining your exercise and sport science degree with another degree, allowing you to graduate with two qualifications with just one year of extra study. Your options include Nutrition and Food Sciences or Psychology (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills).

If you finish your degree with a credit or higher grade point average (GPA) you could also be eligible for postgraduate study in physiotherapy.

1ESSA Future Workforce Report 2019.

Where can my interest in health take me?

View our guide on Active Careers for more information.

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

chart-people

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

buildings-city

Healthcare and social assistance has been the primary provider of new jobs in the Australian labour market since the 1990s.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 202119

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 degree, 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

Undertaking a Vo2 Max Test

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.

More FAQs

What others are saying

The hands-on approach that lots of the courses have has been brilliant. Not everyone can learn from a book, so having the constant opportunity to get real-world experience and apply what we’ve been learning has been fantastic.   

Lachlan Darch

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Lachlancrop.jpg

Lachlan Darch

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

During high school I really enjoyed sport and science subjects, so naturally the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science was a good fit for me. I have been able to apply theory into practical settings throughout my industry placements, including at the Adelaide Football Club and South Australian Cricket Association. These experiences gave me an insider’s view to the work that takes place behind the scenes at an elite sporting level.

Chloe Otte

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Chloe Otte Basket_ball-5 crop.jpg

Chloe Otte

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

During my placement at Basketball SA, I prescribed and delivered exercises during the pre-season to improve the athletes' performance. I also led the player’s warm ups and cool downs along with analysing the opposing team’s game play. I’ve enjoyed learning how to conduct fitness tests like VO2 max and underwater weighing with specialised equipment, as well as using SportsCode, which is a computer program to analyse sporting match performances.

Branson Palmer

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Branson Palmer Basket_ball-18 crop.jpg

Branson Palmer

Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science