Program summary
Program overview
Career opportunities
Advanced standing, recognition of prior learning, credit and articulation
Program structure
Program requirements and notes
Enquiries
Recommended enrolment patterns

Program summary

QTAC code: 013041
OP/Rank for 2008 entry: OP-18 / Rank-62
Award abbreviation: BSc(Sp&ExSc)
Degree type: undergraduate
Mode of study: on campus
Duration: 3 years full-time or equivalent part-time
Fee type: Commonwealth supported places, domestic fee-paying places, international fee-paying places
Total units: 288 units (normally 24 courses)
Recommended prior study: English, Maths and one or more of the Sciences, preferably Chemistry, Physics or Biology
CRICOS code: 030277M

Program overview

Sport and exercise sciences are structured and informed disciplines that analyse the human body's response to acute and chronic physical activity. This ranges from general physical fitness regimens and recreational activities, through to athletes at the highest levels. Sport and exercise scientists focus on enhancing both health and sporting achievements by programming, analysing, and evaluating specific performance factors.

These scientists are trained in the theory and application of the sciences that underpin human movement and performance. They plan, evaluate and advise on coaching and training programs for sport, fitness and health. An acknowledgement of the development of the sport and exercise science area is reflected by the evolution of a professional body for these specialists - the Australian Association for Exercise and Sport Science (AAESS). Graduates who follow an appropriate sequence of courses are eligible to seek membership with the AAESS.

The Bachelor of Science (Sport and Exercise Science) provides in-depth knowledge not only about exercise physiology but also includes biomechanics, motor control, musculoskeletal rehabilitation, sports psychology, sports medicine, sports nutrition, coaching, and performance analysis. Opportunities to gain Australian Sports Commission certification in Course Presenter, Mentor Training, and Assessor Training are available through the degree if the appropriate courses are completed. Similarly, opportunities to gain Sports Medicine Australia Sports Trainer accreditations (Level I and Level II) are available if the appropriate courses are completed. Where required, any professional accreditation, or membership fees are the responsibility of the student.

Professional membership

• Australian Sports Commission, NCAS Level I and Level II General Principles in Coaching
• Australian Sports Commission, NOAS Level I General Principles in Officiating
• Sport Medicine Australia, Sports Trainer Level I, and Level II.
• Membership with Australian Association of Sport and Exercise Science (AAESS)

Career opportunities

This degree and the ancillary industry qualifications integrated throughout, provide a sound base for employment in the following fields: cardiac and pulmonary testing and rehabilitation, community recreation and fitness, corporate health and fitness, exercise physiology, exercise prescription and programming, coaching, athlete development, coach education, personal health and fitness, sport and exercise scientist or research assistant, sports biomechanics, and state and national sport development positions.

Program structure

Core courses

Select 2 courses from:
COR109 Communication and Thought
COR110 Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship
COR111 Environment, Technology and Sustainability

Introductory courses

6 required courses:
LFS122 Human Anatomy
LFS112 Human Physiology
NUR101 Introductory Bioscience
SCI110 Science Research Methods
PSY100 Introduction to Psychology A
SPX102 Introduction to Coaching Science

Advanced courses

14 required courses:
LFS201 Systemic Physiology I
SPX201 Functional Anatomy
SPX202 Biomechanics I
SPX211 Exercise Physiology I
SPX212 Exercise Prescription and Programming
SPX221 Introduction to Sports Medicine
SPX222 Sports Psychology
SPX231 Motor Control and Learning
SPX301 Cardiorespiratory Health and Rehabilitation
SPX302 Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
SPX312 Performance Enhancement
SPX322 Biomechanics II
SPX331 Exercise Physiology II
SPX352 Sports Nutrition
Plus select 2 courses from:
FSN212 Principles of Nutrition
LFS202 Systemic Physiology II
MBT251 Biochemistry
SPX323 Adaptive Physical Activity *
SPX361 Physical Education Studies A * ##
SPX362 Physical Education Studies B * ##
SPX371 Advanced Coaching Science
WPL310 Workplace Learning I #
WPL311 Workplace Learning I #

* Not available in 2008
# Entry to Work Place Learning will be selective, based on GPA and/or interview, and may be subject to a quota.
## Recommended for Students interested in proceeding to a Graduate Diploma in Education, specialising in Physical Education. These courses can not be counted towards AAESS accreditation and so should not be selected by students wishing to become a member of this association.

Course substitution: the GO (Global Opportunities) Program

As part of their USC program, students may apply to participate in the GO Program to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider

Program requirements and notes

1. Refer to the Academic Rules.
2. Refer to explanation of terms.
3. Refer to the recommended enrolment patterns.
4. International students need to refer to the English language requirements.
5. To be eligible for membership to AAESS students must complete all required components of this program. This consists of the 6 Introductory/Foundation Courses and 14 Advanced Courses. In addition, AAESS requires students to complete 150 hours of supervised practice. This can be completed via the two listed Work Place Learning courses, or through supervised practice (the latter can be arranged during the 2nd and 3rd years of this program). 

How to apply

Apply for an undergraduate program.

Enquiries

Faculty of Science, Health and Education
Tel: +61 7 5430 2869
Email: sheinfo@usc.edu.au

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