Drive performance and improve health with the science of exercise.
Exercise scientists use the science of human movement to help people improve their health and fitness, and to prevent common lifestyle diseases. This program teaches you the science and theories behind human movement and sporting performance, and gives you the hands-on skills to work as a qualified exercise scientist.
- Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
- * Estimated tuition fees are based on 2025 rates. Refer to international fees for more information.
- Not all majors/minors and elective options are available at every campus. You should refer to the What Can I Study tab, and the proposed study sequence for your chosen campus and intake for further information.
Exercise scientists use the science of human movement to help people improve their health and fitness, and to prevent common lifestyle diseases. This program teaches you the science and theories behind human movement and sporting performance, and gives you the hands-on skills to work as a qualified exercise scientist.
- Gain in-depth knowledge in areas such as functional anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning, and sports nutrition
- Test and train athletes in USC’s nationally accredited sports science labs
- Learn about sports psychology, performance analysis, coaching and exercise rehabilitation
- Get hands-on experience through 140 hours of supervised professional practice
Post-admission requirements
Students must complete 140 hours of supervised practice to be eligible for accreditation. Before undertaking placements (eg. by year 3), students must provide evidence of immunisations, first aid training, satisfactory criminal history check, and hold a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check). Students may also be required to complete QLD Health orientation package.
Career opportunities
Sport / exercise science, exercise prescription / programming, strength and conditioning, sports coaching, fitness industry, sports administration.
Membership
Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and Sports Medicine Australia. Please note: Students intending to seek membership with ESSA as exercise scientists are advised that ESSA will allow recognition of prior learning (RPL) for non-university studies to a maximum of 12.5% of load. Students holding TAFE studies in fitness can apply for up to a maximum of three courses RPL upon entering the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science.
Accreditation
USC's Exercise Science laboratories are accredited with the Australian Institute of Sport's National Sport Science Quality Assurance program.
The Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science is accredited at the level of Exercise Science with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Graduates from this program may identify themselves as exercise scientists. Students enrolled prior to 2016 should refer to the handbook applicable to the time of their admission.
Program structure
Introductory courses (8)
COR109
LFS112
LFS122
PUB104
SPX101
SPX102
SPX120
SPX121
Advanced courses (15)
NUT203
NUT310
SPX201
SPX202
SPX203
SPX211
SPX221
SPX222
SPX231
SPX300
SPX301
SPX302
SPX322
SPX331
SPX340
Please note: SPX300 should be studied in Semester 1 of your final year of your degree, and requires course coordinator permission.
Elective course (1)
Select 1 elective course from either faculty (Arts, Business and Law or Science, Health, Education and Engineering).
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all USC courses are available on every USC campus.
Total units: 288
Recommended study sequences
Program requirements and notes
Program requirements
In order to graduate you must:
- Successfully complete 288 units as outlined in the Program Structure
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses)
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
- As part of your USC program, you may apply to Study Overseas to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. Students in this program should be aware there are restrictions applicable to credit transfer in order to obtain ESSA membership
- Refer to the Planning your study page to manage your progression