Study Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City East

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
IBXS

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 33,500 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.5]
IELTS reading [6.5]
IELTS writing [6.5]
IELTS speaking [6.5]
IELTS listening [6.5]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
094935G

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV level or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:

English language test

IELTS total [6.5]
IELTS reading [6.5]
IELTS writing [6.5]
IELTS speaking [6.5]
IELTS listening [6.5]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Kenya KCSE (average)	B+
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	9
Malaysia UEC	26
Norway GPA	4
Pakistan HSSC	85
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	9
Sweden GPA	15
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	9
Vietnam	8.5
Australia	80
IB (best 6)	29
USA SAT (1600)	1270
India (best 4) State Board	80
India (best 4) Central Board	70
HKDSE	17
Nepal NEB	2.81
Canada High School (OSSD)	75
Bangladesh HSC	4

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Students commencing in July will follow an alternate degree structure to accommodate starting in Second Semester.

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 life.
Take your place at a university ranked 35th in the world for sports science.¹
Benefit from UniSA’s elite sporting partnerships when you complete 140 hours of industry placement across schools, fitness centres and sporting clubs.
Learn from experts 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 modern on-campus facilities designed for exercise testing and performance analysis.
Choose a double degree with a Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences, or a Bachelor of Psychology (Counselling and Interpersonal Skills).
UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people.⁴ As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,⁵ 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. ²2022 QS Subject Rankings, Sport-Related Subjects ³Results in Human Movement and Sports Science - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). ⁴UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #52, 2023 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

Exercise and sport science students using the campus exercise physiology lab

Study the first fully accredited exercise and sport science degree in South Australia¹ from the state’s No.1 university for graduate careers in health.²

Become immersed in an environment with practical learning opportunities, guided by world-class industry experts. With this highly sought-after degree, you’ll gain an integral appreciation of the long-term positive effects of exercise on people’s physical and mental health, as well as the knowledge and skills to help athletes to enhance their performance.

Increase your employment opportunities 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.

¹Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). ²ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019-21, Health Services and Support –Overall Employment Indicator (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). 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

During your studies 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 course 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. The added benefit is that 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.

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

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Advanced Exercise and Sport Science
Anthropometry and Body Image	HLTH 3016	4.5
Applied Exercise Physiology	HLTH 3018	4.5
Sports Biomechanics	HLTH 3019	4.5
Sports Nutrition	HLTH 3002	4.5
Performance Analysis and Player Monitoring	HLTH 3043	4.5
Human Movement Neuroscience	HLTH 3049	4.5
Sport Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation	HLTH 3070	4.5
Health and Physical Education
Game, Sports Theory, Practice and Participation	EDUC 3067	4.5
Health Risks and Relationship Education	HLTH 2013	4.5
Fitness and Lifestyle Management	HLTH 1013	4.5
Principles of Teaching and Coaching	HLTH 1027	4.5
Foundations of Outdoor Leadership	HLTH 2024	4.5
Dance as Education and Recreation	EDUC 3066	4.5
Outdoor Education
Foundations of Outdoor Leadership	HLTH 2024	4.5
Outdoor, Wilderness and Adventure Education	HLTH 3052	4.5
Leadership in Terrestrial Environments	HLTH 3051	4.5
Leadership in Aquatic Environments	HLTH 3050	4.5
Aboriginal Cultures	HUMS 1035	4.5
Professional Practice in Outdoor Leadership	HLTH 3068	4.5
Nutrition
Chemistry 100	CHEM 1006	4.5
Biochemistry	BIOL 2014	4.5
Physiology	BIOL 2035	4.5
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Management	HLTH 3001	4.5
Microbiology	BIOL 2051	4.5
Sports Nutrition	HLTH 3002	4.5
Rehabilitation Sciences
Sports Nutrition	HLTH 3002	4.5
Anthropometry and Body Image	HLTH 3016	4.5
Human Anatomy 200	HLTH 2022	4.5
Practice Education in Exercise Delivery	HLTH 3047	4.5
Human Anatomy 101	HLTH 1030	4.5
Sport Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation	HLTH 3070	4.5
Pain Mechanisms and Management	REHB 3066	4.5
Human Movement Neuroscience	HLTH 3049	4.5
Sports Coaching
Principles of Teaching and Coaching	HLTH 1027	4.5
Anthropometry and Body Image	HLTH 3016	4.5
Sports Nutrition	HLTH 3002	4.5
Performance Analysis and Player Monitoring	HLTH 3043	4.5
Health Promotion
Introduction to Public Health	HLTH 1038	4.5
Public Health and Wellbeing Practice	HLTH 3048	4.5
Health Promotion Concepts	HLTH 1041	4.5
Health Systems and Services	HLTH 1040	4.5
Designing and Managing Health Projects	HLTH 2023	4.5
Optional Electives
Peers, Relationships and Health	EDUC 4213	4.5
Small Business for Professionals	BUSS 2040	4.5
Cultural Experience in Health Science	HLTH 3069	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. To undertake field/clinical placements students are required to have current criminal history and screening checks as published by the Clinical Placement Unit (unisa.edu.au/CPU). 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.

Notes

1. There may be incidental fees depending on the choice of elective courses throughout the degree.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. All electives may not be available each year but will be offered according to student demand.

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

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.

Why Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Exercise and sport science students in an anatomy class

Ranked 35 in the world for sport science¹, 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 and wellbeing of clients, their performance and to prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis. 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 opportunites

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 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 a number of local, community and elite sporting organisations, such as the Adelaide Football Club. These provide excellent networking opportunities during your studies.

You’ll complete a minimum of 140 hours of exercise science industry placement, further enhancing your industry networks and relationships. This could include scenarios such as:

empowering athletes at amateur or elite sporting clubs
supporting returned service men and women 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 a double degree 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 occupational therapy or 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 degree is accredited by Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as an Accredited Exercise Scientist through ESSA.

Industry facts

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

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

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:

UniSA College Diploma in Health (Sport)
UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Health)
SAIBT Diploma of Health Science

International

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

SAIBT Diploma of Health Science

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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

Our international 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:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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.

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.

Your study spaces

Undertaking a Vo2 Max Test

You'll have access to:

exercise physiology clinic
High Performance Sport Centre
environmental chamber
exercise physiology laboratories
biomechanics laboratory
UniSA Sport gyms
anatomy laboratories
human performance and resistance training laboratory

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

Dr Tom Wycherley

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How to apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

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