Course overview
Study at Deakin – home to the world's #1 ranked sport science school with Deakin's Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours). Build your expertise in the biological, physiological and behavioural foundations of human movement, health and performance, while developing leadership skills for careers in exercise and sport science, and allied industries.
Train in our elite sports precinct and gain 220 hours of practical experience in external organisations – more than any comparable Victorian course. Choose your specialisation by studying a major in an area like applied sport science, exercise physiology, sport nutrition, physical activity and health and strength and conditioning and complete an original research project in the embedded honours year. With more than 150 industry partners – including Geelong Football Club, Cricket Australia and Tennis Australia – you'll be ready for further study or for a career in Australia's $40 billion sport industry.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
Timely VTAC entry closes 28 September 2026 at 5pm. View other VTAC dates
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours)
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400311581 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
- Deakin code
- H353
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8
STUDY AT THE #1 SPORT SCIENCE SCHOOL IN THE WORLD
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science – Advanced (Honours) you must pass 32 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety
- 16 credit points of core units
- 8 credit points of open elective units (or units from 1 or 2 major sequence/s)
- 8 credit points of Exercise and Sport Science Honours units
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a place in the Exercise and Sport Science Honours program, students will have:
• Completed the first 3 levels of the course (ie: they will have achieved 24 credit points)
• Achieve a WAM of a least 65 in all level 3 Deakin units
Students who met the honours eligibility and successfully complete the Honours year, will graduate with one-degree H353 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science – Advanced (Honours). Failure to meet the above WAM requirement will result in an alternative exit from H353 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science – Advanced (Honours) with a degree of H343 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science provided the student meets the course requirements of H343. Students who do not wish to complete the honours year may also opt for the H343 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science upon successful completion of the first 3 years.
Year 1 - Trimester 1
plus one elective unit (recommended from level 1)
Year 1 - Trimester 2
plus one elective unit (recommended from level 1)
Year 2 - Trimester 1
plus one elective units (recommended from level 1 or level 2)
Year 2 - Trimester 2
plus one elective unit (recommended from level 2 or level 3)
Year 3 - Trimester 1
plus two elective unit (recommended from level 2 or level 3)
Year 3 - Trimester 2
plus two elective units (recommended from level 2 or level 3)
*Unit also available in Trimester 3
^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure
Year 4 - Semester 1
Year 4 - Semester 2
*Note: for 4th year admission students must achieve a WAM of at least 65 in all level 3 Deakin units.
Exercise and Sport Science elective units
Electives are offered subject to availability of resources and quotas where applicable.
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Level 1 - Trimester 2
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Level 3 - Trimester 2
Level 3 - Trimester 3
Refer to the details of each major sequence for availability.
- Exercise Physiology
- Applied Sport Science
- Physical Activity and Health
- Sports Nutrition
- Sport Coaching and Coaching Ecosystems *
- Strength and Conditioning
- Psychology - Individual units may not be available on every campus
- Nutrition
- Health Promotion
- Family, Society and Health
- Disability and Inclusion
Note: * Minor available
Students can choose to undertake majors from other courses as long as they can fit the major into their course structure and the majors are available to be undertaken.
Please ensure you discuss your request with your Student Adviser to ensure you are still meeting your course rules.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
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Choose a Deakin degree for vital industry experience on placements, hands-on learning in world-class facilities and guidance from industry-expert academics. We offer lifetime career support and are the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment.
Work-Integrated Learning
^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure.
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Other course information
There is a quota on places in the Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours) program and meeting the criteria does not guarantee acceptance into Honours.
Mandatory student checks
Working with Children Check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for the relevant state prior to undertaking placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement units.
Police record check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students when they enrol into their placement units.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practical experience and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
The course contains compulsory practicum placements designed to meet the ESSA Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) professional standards. Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
At Deakin, we’re committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that supports all students to succeed. We work closely with students to identify and reduce barriers, and where possible, provide tailored support to help students engage with learning and assessment activities, ensuring every student has the opportunity to belong and thrive. If you are disabled, neurodivergent, Deaf, and/or you live with the effects of a mental health condition, chronic health condition, or other condition that impacts your studies or participation in university life, we encourage you to reach out to our Disability Resource Centre for a collaborative and confidential discussion.If you are an athlete registered with the Deakin Elite Athlete program. additional supports may be available to help you manage placement and course participation requirements.
Work experience
Work Integrated Learning
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours) features compulsory practical experience through work-based practicum, so you can start your career before you graduate with hands-on work placement experience.
You have the opportunity to undertake hands-on experience in a variety of sporting, exercise or health environments. These may vary from local, state or national sporting organisations and professional sporting clubs; state and national institutes of sport; as well as health, fitness and exercise physiology rehabilitation providers. The roles can involve coaching, sport science, sports administration, sport management, exercise physiology and fitness. Many graduates are offered subsequent employment based on their excellent practicum/fieldwork performance.
To meet the ESSA professional standards for accreditation, at least 80 hours of course practicum hours must demonstrate attainment of competency in exercise assessment, prescription and delivery.
The units comprising of the practical experience outlined above are HSE312 Exercise and Sports Science Practicum (140 hours) and HSE302 Exercise Programming (80 hours).
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Please note, there are limited places in this course and entry is competitive. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible. Applications for this course may close prior to the published closing date if all places are filled.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 25 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven’t undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 30 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 25 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in Biology, any English, Health and Human Development, Outdoor and Environmental Studies or Physical Education equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics or Physics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Biology, any English, Health and Human Development, Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Maths: General Mathematics or Physical Education equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Elite Athlete program
Student athletes may be eligible to receive 5 bonus aggregate points. Applicants wishing to be considered for an elite athlete bonus must complete a personal statement indicating how their studies have been impacted by participation in sport at an elite level. Applicants must also provide documented evidence of their participation in sport at an elite level to be considered for this. Learn more about the Elite Athlete Program eligibility and how to apply.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Students who are seeking Recognition of prior learning based on non-formal studies (eg. work experience) and wish to apply for ESSA professional accreditation please refer to Professional Recognition section in this handbook.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$14,029 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Learn more about fees.
The estimated tuition (student contribution) fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your student contribution is determined by the units you enrol in and will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your student contribution.
Check your eligibility or learn more about CSP or HECS-HELP.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2024? Follow these how to apply steps.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours) with our pathways finder.
This course can be a pathway to:
Master of Applied Sport Science (H707)
Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology (H743)
Doctor of Philosophy (H940)
Career outcomes
Whether you choose to pursue a future in research or apply your advanced skills directly in industry, honours can help you shape a pathway aligned to your career goals.
Upon graduating from Deakin’s Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science – Advanced (Honours) you will possess the skills and capabilities required for progression to higher degrees by research and then ultimately into roles involving research in industry or academia. The original research you undertake in your honours year also offers you a unique opportunity to tailor your degree towards your desired industry specialisation.
Outside of research, your honours year can also give you a competitive edge as you pursue roles across the sport, exercise, coaching and fitness industries. As an Accredited Exercise Scientist, you will be able to take advantage of a wide range of opportunities and growth driven by Australia’s $40 billion sport industry.^ As well as the typical roles in the sport, exercise, coaching and fitness industry, you may also pursue employment in sport science, community health and wellness, or rehabilitation.
Upon graduating, you may find employment opportunities in:
- elite, professional sporting clubs
- local and state government agencies
- professional sporting bodies
- local and community sporting clubs
- hospital and rehabilitation clinics
- fitness and aquatic centres
- private health and recreation centres
- large organisations in corporate health.
After successfully completing the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours), you may consider applying for further study to advance your career in the exercise and sport science industry. We offer:
As a graduate of the #1 ranked sport science school in the world, you will be prepared to be a leader in exercise and sport science, and allied fields, and can look forward to employment opportunities across multiple industries. Be ready for Australia’s golden decade of sport, visit our exercise and sport science careers page to discover the exciting range of careers that you could pursue.
^Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN), Sports Innovation Report 2024
Professional recognition
Be a sought-after accredited Exercise Scientist. When you graduate with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science - Advanced (Honours), you will be eligible to apply for accreditation with the peak national accrediting body Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Deakin was first to achieve this nationally recognised accreditation in Victoria, a result of our long-standing commitment to high education standards and curriculum delivery in sport. For more information please refer to the ESSA-accredited course application process .
Recognition of Prior Learning will only be awarded based on formal learning, which includes at a minimum documented learning outcomes and assessments (e.g. course transcripts and course completion certificates). Students who received credits based on informal learning (e.g. work experience) will need to apply to become an accredited Exercise Scientist via the non-ESSA accredited course application pathway.
If you chose to undertake the nutrition major, you will also be eligible to apply for student membership with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) while studying. Upon graduation you may be eligible to apply for ordinary membership of NSA or apply to become a registered Associate Nutritionist. Registration will ensure you are recognised as a qualified nutrition professional in the field.
It is an ESSA English language requirement if you’re seeking initial accreditation to show English language competence. Find out if you need to take an English language test. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact info@essa.org.au.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and well-developed theoretical and technical knowledge within the broad disciplines of exercise and sport science. Acquire and apply advanced knowledge of the philosophies, ethics, methods and principles of research in one or more discipline areas of practice in exercise and sports science to plan and execute a substantial research project. |
| Demonstrate clear and accurate communication using a range of modes to select and deliver relevant information, and advanced oral and written communication skills in the clear and coherent communication of research questions, design and outcomes to a diverse audience. |
| Use a range of digital tools within exercise and sport science environments to accurately and efficiently locate, evaluate and disseminate information, including the collection and analysis of data, and acquire advanced skills in using appropriate technologies to research, analyse, manage, synthesise and disseminate evidence-based information to an academic audience and specialists in the field of exercise and sports science. |
| Use information from multiple sources of evidence to inform decision making applied to exercise and sport science. Employ intellectual independence to critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific literature and to apply appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques to answer the research question. Apply advanced theoretical knowledge to interpret outcomes and to identify how they contribute to advancing the field of exercise and sports science. |
| Independently deconstruct a range of real world and complex problems within exercise and sport science environments to formulate, execute and evaluate possible solutions. Identify an original research question and, under supervision, apply appropriate theories and methodologies to address this question in an ethical manner. |
| Demonstrate the capacity to learn and work independently, taking personal responsibility for actions and outcomes commensurate with priorities and timeframes established both personally and by others. Take initiative to identify personal learning goals and needs, in order to undertake and manage an independent research project including the communication of research outcomes. |
| Consistently demonstrate professional behaviours while making effective contributions across a range of roles when undertaking collaborative work within intra- and inter-disciplinary teams, including contributing constructively and collaboratively as a member of research and professional team of specialists, peers, academics and others from a range of disciplines and backgrounds. |
| Practise ethical and professional behaviours with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, diverse global and local perspectives in exercise and sport science and apply ethical standards governing research and professional practice in the field of exercise and sports science whilst maintaining confidentiality, and respecting inclusive, cultural sensitivities. |
Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
^Australia is set to host over ten major global sporting events between 2022 – 2032
#Students must achieve a WAM of at least 65 in all level 3 units to progress through to the level 4 ‘honours’ year.
Some courses have limited places, apply early to avoid missing out.
