Course overview
This unique double degree offers the opportunity to combine expertise in exercise and sports performance with essential engineering principles. Gain hands-on experience in designing and developing products and solutions for challenges in rehabilitation, biomedical technologies and sports engineering. If you are passionate about sport and exercise and ready to push your boundaries, this course will empower you to innovate at the intersection of sport, biomechanics, technology and design.
Understand how exercise impacts human health and performance, alongside the anatomy and physiology of human motion. With a major in mechanical engineering, you will contribute to the creation of products from sports equipment to athletic wear – integrating engineering expertise to optimise design and functionality. Industry experience embedded in each degree ensures you graduate equipped with practical skills in both disciplines, preparing you for exciting career opportunities.
Ready to engineer the future of sports and health technology?
Become a leader in your field by studying at the #1 sport science school in the world.* With Deakin also ranked #1 in Australia for textile science and engineering,^ you'll be learning from the best. Build your skills in world-class facilities including the Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus’ Elite Sports Precinct, supporting the activities of a wide range of athletes and opening the door to exciting placement opportunities. At our Melbourne Burwood Campus, the Specialised Indoor Exercise and Sport Science building gives you access to some of Australia's most advanced sport and exercise facilities, including a climate chamber and biomechanics and motor learning laboratories. Meanwhile, Deakin’s engineering students have access to comprehensive additive and digital manufacturing laboratories, mechanical testing and evaluation, high-end computing facilities for 3D design, modelling and simulation, and immersive monitoring and visualisation environments.
This course provides ample opportunity for hands-on learning and practical experiences. Half of your engineering studies focus on project- and design-based learning, where industry-informed challenges and real-world projects shape your education. The other half builds the foundational and specialist knowledge needed to tackle these challenges, ensuring you graduate with the skills and confidence to step straight into the workforce. You will also gain 30 to 60 days of engineering professional placement in an approved host organisation, complemented by 220 hours of work placement through the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science – more than any comparable accredited program in Victoria. These placements span elite sporting clubs, state and national sporting organisations, health and fitness providers and rehabilitation services, ensuring you graduate job-ready with a competitive edge.
Upon completion, you will graduate with a degree that sets you apart in the current job market – equipped with the practical and professional experience to lead in your chosen field. Your knowledge of the scientific principles underpinning physical activity, exercise and sports science, paired with your technical proficiency in mechanical engineering, will prepare you for niche careers while also ensuring a diverse skill set. With increased demand for active lifestyles, digital fitness solutions and performance-enhancing technology, this degree gives you everything you need to shape the future of sport and human performance.
* ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021-2025.
^ ShanghaiRanking 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
VTAC entries are closed.
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 Engineering (Honours)
- Year
2026 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400312271 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400512271 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) - Deakin code
- D467
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 117808K 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 7/8
#1 Victorian uni for graduate employment
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.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Mechanical Engineering major, you must pass 42 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- SEJ010 Introduction to Safety and Project Oriented Learning (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 15 credit points of core units from the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science
- 27 credit points of core units from the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Mechanical Engineering major
* Students who have not previously completed VCE Mathematical Methods (units 3 and 4) are advised to undertake SIT190 Introduction to Functions, Relations and Graphs in the first trimester of their engineering course.
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.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course
Mechanical Engineering (unit set code MJ-S000194)
~It is recommended students undertake SEJ441 and SEJ446 in consecutive trimesters.
*Available at Burwood campus from 2027
^Students are encouraged to complete this unit in Trimester 3 of the third year of study. Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit). Available at the Burwood campus from Trimester 3, 2026.
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)
New course from Trimester 1, 2026.
Enrolment in Trimester 3 study periods is compulsory to complete this course.
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Articulation and credit transfer
Flexible entry into the course allows students to upgrade their qualifications and to obtain credit for previous studies/experience. Applicants with appropriate TAFE qualifications or other approved post-secondary studies may apply for Recognition of prior learning (RPL). Credit may be considered for skills obtained in the workforce or by informal means.
Equipment requirements
Students must have access to a suitable computer and a network connection. The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course may also require that students have access to a range of software. Access to high-cost specialist equipment is provided but students may be required to purchase minor equipment for particular unit(s) as detailed in unit site.
Alternative exits
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
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
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
Enrolment in Trimester 3 study periods is compulsory to complete this course.
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Through unit SEL703 Professional Practice, you'll gain industry experience by completing at least 30 to 60 days of practical work experience in an engineering workplace with assessment tasks designed to develop and enhance your understanding of the engineering profession, professional practice and continuing professional development, possible career outcomes, and the opportunity to establish valuable professional networks. More information can be found here: SEBE work integrated learning.
The Exercise and Sport Science component 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, while many graduates have been offered subsequent employment based on their excellent practicum/fieldwork performance.
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.
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
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics or Maths: General Mathematics
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) with a minimum WAM of 60 or equivalent
- evidence of mathematical ability (equivalent to that of the Year 12 maths prerequisite)
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
- evidence of mathematical ability (equivalent to that of the Year 12 maths prerequisite).
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.
You will also require evidence of mathematical ability (equivalent to that of the Year 12 maths prerequisite).
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 any Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics, Physics or Systems Engineering equals 2 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Biology, any English, Health and Human Development, Maths: General Mathematics, Outdoor and Environmental Studies or Physical Education equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
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.
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.
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 50% of the course at Deakin University.
You can also refer to the Recognition of prior learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
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'.
$11,286 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options on our Current students fees website or estimate your tuition fees.
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 Engineering (Honours) with our pathways finder.
Career outcomes
Graduates of this double degree will be well placed to work in the fields of mechanical engineering and exercise and sports science, or in roles where both disciplines intersect. With a strong foundation in both biomechanics and mechanical systems design, you’ll be prepared for a range of careers in emerging and established sectors. Potential roles include:
- Mechanical design engineer – specialising in the development of high-performance sporting equipment, wearable devices or rehabilitation technologies.
- Product development engineer – creating innovative solutions in sport, health and wellness, or recreational technology industries.
- Biomechanical engineering assistant – supporting research and product development focused on human movement, ergonomics and assistive technologies.
- Wearable systems engineer – contributing to the design and integration of sensors and electronics in wearable health and performance devices.
- Testing and standards engineer – ensuring the safety, durability, and compliance of sports and fitness equipment through rigorous testing processes.
- Innovation engineer – working with start-ups, R&D labs or sporting goods companies to drive new product concepts from prototype to production.
This double degree also opens doors to postgraduate research or further specialisation in areas such as biomechanics, sports engineering or health technology design:
- Performance technology coordinator – supporting elite sporting teams or institutes by managing and maintaining performance tech (e.g. motion capture systems, force plates, sensors).
- Applied biomechanics analyst – working with sports scientists and coaches to interpret biomechanics data and translate it into training or equipment recommendations.
- High performance operations analyst – supporting performance programs with data, equipment logistics and process optimisation – ideal for someone with a systems mindset.
- Sports innovation coordinator – embedded within sporting organisations to identify and integrate emerging technologies (hardware/software) that enhance performance or efficiency.
- Sports equipment development liaison – acting as a bridge between athletes, coaches and equipment manufacturers – translating user needs into product feedback and improvement.
- Technical services officer, sport science – assisting in the setup and running of biomechanics and physiology testing equipment in high-performance or research environments.
- Sport technology project officer – coordinating cross-disciplinary projects involving wearable tech, sensor integration, or training tech trials within sports organisations or startups.
- Rehabilitation technology support officer – supporting therapists and trainers by maintaining and adapting rehab and testing equipment used with injured athletes.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) is currently not professionally accredited. Deakin will be seeking accreditation from Engineers Australia and Exercise and Sports Science Australia and will update all students once professional accreditation has been approved.
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.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Mechanical Engineering major | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Design, develop, implement, manage and evaluate sustainable and innovative engineering solutions for real-world problems by integrating and applying well-developed knowledge and skills in natural and physical sciences, engineering and project management, and by showing concern for environmental, social and economic impact. Apply engineering and scientific techniques to study engineering problems, evaluate the benefits, risks and uncertainty associated with the use of specific engineering tools and techniques, and evaluate the effectiveness of designs and experiments that are used to determine a solution. Plan and execute practice- based projects to show capacity for advanced knowledge and skills in a discipline of engineering and thereby demonstrate the ability to research and continue professional development and scholarship. | Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and well-developed theoretical and technical knowledge within the broad disciplines of exercise and sport science. |
| Communication | Effectively apply verbal and non-verbal communication skills by actively listening, speaking, reading, writing, and graphically representing an engineering position using appropriate means, considerate of the audience and viewpoint of others. | Demonstrate clear and accurate communication using a range of modes to select and deliver relevant information. |
| Digital literacy | Identify, select and use digital technologies and tools relevant to an engineering discipline to use, manage, generate and share information, evaluate its reliability, and use the information for engineering design, problem solving and research purposes. Demonstrate the ability to independently and systematically locate and share information, laws, policies and regulations that pertain to engineering practice. | 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. |
| Critical thinking | Use knowledge of natural and physical sciences, and engineering skills and processes to identify and define problems in a variety of contexts and to study the nature and the impact of those problems. Apply critical and analytical thinking and judgment in evaluating data and information and integrating knowledge to develop new understanding, formulate appropriate and sustainable engineering design solutions and manage their implementation, operation and delivery ensuring effectiveness and efficiency. | Use information from multiple sources of evidence to inform decision making applied to exercise and sport science. |
| Problem solving | Evaluate and use established engineering principles and practice approaches to identify potential solutions to resolve complex, real-world engineering problems and realise solutions independently and collaboratively. Demonstrate innovative and creative approaches and solutions to engineering problems that are constrained by local, national, global, and contemporary issues and show capacity for planning, designing, executing, and managing engineering projects. | Independently deconstruct a range of real world and complex problems within exercise and sport science environments to formulate, execute and evaluate possible solutions. |
| Self-management | Proactively and critically self-assess and use reflection as a strategy for lifelong learning, professional development, and career thinking. Manage personal actions, priorities, and behaviours effectively in consideration of others, to ensure integrity in professional judgement and decision-making. | 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. |
| Teamwork | Demonstrate the value of trust by being a competent, reliable team member, who recognises and respects the roles and viewpoints of others, the fundamentals of team dynamics, and the value in pursuing expert assistance when required to nurture relationships that foster mutual engagement of others to collaboratively solve problems together. Work with, influence, and organise other people and resources to perform necessary work in accordance with a mutually agreed schedule, by applying the fundamentals of business and project planning, financial management, risk management, and human resources to an engineering context. | Consistently demonstrate professional behaviours while making effective contributions across a range of roles when undertaking collaborative work within intra- and inter-disciplinary teams. |
| Global citizenship | Value the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well as diverse communities and cultures in a global context and situate own engineering practice by demonstrating commitment to safe, ethical and sustainable practices, and applying social, legal, and environmental responsibilities to exert a positive influence in the community. | Practise ethical and professional behaviours with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, diverse global and local perspectives in exercise and sport science. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
