Course overview
Study at Deakin – home to the world’s #1 sport science school – and build your expertise across exercise and sport science, sport management and business. Learn from leading academics in world-class facilities while developing the scientific capability to support performance, health and participation – alongside learning the business knowledge required to lead and manage sport organisations.
Through an accredited pathway toward registration as an Accredited Exercise Scientist with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), you will develop the skills required to prescribe exercise and sport to improve health and performance. At the same time, explore sport systems, finance, marketing, management and law to understand how sporting organisations operate and grow. Complete at least 320 hours of practical experience and graduate prepared to contribute across high-performance environments, community sport and Australia’s $40 billion sport industry.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
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/Bachelor of Business (Sport Management)
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
1400310391 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) - Regional and Remote
1400314681 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400514681 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- D394
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 072594F Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
STUDY AT THE #1 SPORT SCIENCE SCHOOL IN THE WORLD
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/ Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) 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
- 16 credit points from the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science
- 16 credit points of core units
- 16 credit points from the Bachelor of Business (Sport Management)
- 15 credit points of core units
- 1 credit point of course electives from Business and Law elective unit (level 2 or level 3)
- a maximum of 12 credit points at level 1 across both courses
- a minimum of 10 credit points at level 3 or above across both courses.
Course requirements for both the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (H343) and Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) (M391) must be satisfied.
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.
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Year 3 - Trimester 2
One Business and Law elective unit (level 2 or level 3)
Year 4 - Trimester 1
Year 4 - Trimester 2
^ Indicates compulsory practicum core units students need to complete in this course.
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:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- 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
This combined course features extensive practical experience in exercise and sport science 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 rehabilitation providers. The roles can involve coaching, sport science, sports administration, sport management, rehabilitation and fitness. Many graduates have been offered work based on their excellent fieldwork performance.
^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.
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, practicals 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 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science features 220 hours of practical experience (more than any comparable accredited program in Victoria) in national, state or local sport, exercise or health organisations during the third and fourth years, providing you with invaluable workplace experiences that mean you graduate career ready.
The Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) features a minimum 100 hours of practical experience in a sporting organisation, association or facility.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Upon achievement of the prerequisite requirements, placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks.
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.
Work experience
Exercise and Sport Science
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science features compulsory practical experience through work-based practicum, so you can start your career before you graduate with hands-on work placement experience.
You can undertake hands-on experience in a variety of sporting, exercise or health environments. These 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, while many graduates have been 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).
Sport Management
The MMS306 Sport Industry Experience will be a placement organised by you with a host sporting organisation, association or facility for a period of 100 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.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
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) 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 any Business, any English, Health And Human Development, any Information Technology or Physical Education equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any Business, English other than EAL, Health And Human Development, any Information Technology, Maths: General Mathematics, Physical Education or Physics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Regional adjustments
Current year 12 students from regional and remote areas who apply to study this course at Waurn Ponds campus may be eligible for additional aggregate points to their selection rank through Deakin's Regional and Remote Entry Scheme. Learn more about this scheme, eligibility and how to apply.
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 bonus. 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'.
$14,944 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.
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 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
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/Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) with our pathways finder.
This course can be a pathway to:
Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (Honours) (H442)
Graduate Certificate of Strength and Conditioning (H513)
Graduate Certificate of Sport Performance Analysis (H514)
Master of Applied Sport Science (H707)
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Unlock career opportunities beyond the field. With this double degree, you will be equipped to provide professional leadership across a range of areas, helping to shape the future of Australia’s $40 billion sporting industry.^
With Deakin ranked the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment, you will graduate with the confidence to step into your career and thrive.
Career opportunities may include:
- business development manager
- exercise scientist
- player manager/agent
- recreation officer
- sports administrator
- elite coach
- strength and conditioning coach
- sports development officer
- sports event manager.
Students wanting to pursue further study in exercise and sport science may consider applying for Deakin’s:
- Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (Honours)
- Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
- Master of Applied Sport Science.
^Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN), Sports Innovation Report 2024
Professional recognition
This qualification allows you to receive recognition from both business and exercise and sport science professional bodies.
Deakin Business School holds the prestigious and globally recognised AACSB and EQUIS accreditations, which attest to quality, academic and professional excellence, ongoing improvement, innovation and graduate employability.
Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA)
Be a sought-after accredited Exercise Scientist. When you graduate with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Business (Sport Management), 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). If you receive credits based on informal learning (e.g. work experience), you will need to apply to become an accredited Exercise Scientist via the non-ESSA accredited course application pathway.
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 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) |
|---|---|
| Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and well-developed theoretical and technical knowledge within the broad disciplines of exercise and sport science. | Demonstrate core knowledge of the elements of management that are unique to sport business through analysis and application of theory from business and allied disciplines in order to provide effective management in sport organisations |
| Demonstrate clear and accurate communication using a range of modes to select and deliver relevant information. | Develop written, oral and visual communication skills around complex concepts for diverse stakeholders involved in the sport industry including organisations in government and corporate sectors and those involved in delivery of sport at community through to elite settings |
| 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. | Select and use a range of digital technologies in appropriate ways to manage and disseminate relevant information to stakeholders in the sport industry |
| Use information from multiple sources of evidence to inform decision making applied to exercise and sport science. | Demonstrate the ability to exercise reasoned judgement and reflection in relation to managing in the sport industry |
| Independently deconstruct a range of real world and complex problems within exercise and sport science environments to formulate, execute and evaluate possible solutions. | Identify and address issues, formulate solutions related to commercial and social improvements in the sport industry and implement efficient strategic and operational outcomes for organisations in the sport industry |
| 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. | Demonstrate skills to work independently and take responsibility for continuing professional development |
| Consistently demonstrate professional behaviours while making effective contributions across a range of roles when undertaking collaborative work within intra- and inter-disciplinary team | Constructively engage in teams to contribute to collaborative outcomes and be able to take on roles towards demonstration of sound management within the sport industry |
| Practise ethical and professional behaviours with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, diverse global and local perspectives in exercise and sport science. | Engage as a professional in the sport industry with the skills that are applicable to a variety of contexts (professional, amateur) and issues (global, social, ethical, cultural) |
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.
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