#1 sport science school in the world
Top 125 worldwide for engineering
Deakin sets the standard for employability
Why choose Deakin
Study the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) to combine human movement science with mechanical engineering. Learn at the school ranked #1 globally for sport science while gaining practical experience designing products and technologies for rehabilitation, biomedical applications and sports engineering.
With a mechanical engineering major, you will be able to contribute products from sports equipment and devices to athletic wear, applying engineering expertise to optimise design and functionality. Embedded industry experience across both degrees ensures you graduate with practical skills, including more than 30 days of sports science placements and 30 to 60 days of engineering placements.
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Unbeatable employability
Study at the #1 sport science school in the world and the #1 Victorian university for engineering graduate employment.
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Extensive practical experience
Complete up to 30 days on a sport science placement and up to 60 days on an engineering placement to build industry-ready skills.
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Diverse career pathways in high-demand fields
Graduate prepared for careers at the intersection of engineering and exercise science.
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World-class facilities
Train at Deakin’s Elite Regional Sports Precinct and undertake projects in our state-of-the-art, purpose-built engineering labs, equipped for professional practice.
Connected to industry
Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.
Deakin puts employability first
Career outcomes
Combine world-leading sport science with mechanical engineering to develop innovative technologies that improve human performance, rehabilitation and health. Graduate with practical placement experience across both disciplines and the skills to design products and technologies for the future of sport and healthcare.
Mechanical engineer
Design, develop and improve mechanical systems, equipment and manufacturing processes. Apply engineering principles to solve technical challenges across industries including manufacturing, energy, transport and advanced technology.
- $100k
Typical salary in Australia
- 3.9/5
Job satisfaction in Australia
Exercise scientist
Apply exercise science knowledge to assess movement, prescribe exercise and support health, performance and participation outcomes.
- $70-79k
Entry-level annual salary
- $120,000k
Average salary after 10 years
Other jobs
- Product development engineer
- Wearable systems engineer
- Testing and standards engineer
- Innovation engineer
- Performance technology coordinator
- Applied biomechanics analyst
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
FAQs
Yes – every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning (WIL) in their degree. Each year, more than 30,000+ students complete a placement or internship with partners including Microsoft, KPMG, EY and the National Australia Bank. You can access WIL through placements, industry projects, field-based experiences, simulations and global programs, helping you apply your skills and graduate with the experience and confidence employers value.
DeakinTALENT is Deakin's award-winning career service, and you can access it for life – not just while you're studying. From personalised career coaching sessions and AI-enhanced resume support to a jobs and internships board with employment opportunities, it’s designed to give you the career management skills and connections you need to stand out. Every Deakin degree is built with input from employers, so your course is designed around real workplace needs, now and into the future.
Entry requirements and the minimum ATAR vary by degree and are detailed on the degree page, but if your ATAR is below the cut-off, you still have options. Use the pathway finder tool to find the opportunities available to you, including associate degrees and Deakin Guaranteed ATAR, which offers eligible students a guaranteed entry score that's on average 10 points below the lowest selection rank. If you don't have an ATAR, Deakin Uni Ready is a free, supported program designed to build your skills and confidence and open doors to degrees in arts, health, science and business. Access programs and equity schemes are also available.
At Deakin, employability isn't an add-on – it's built in. Our degrees are designed with industry input, so your skills are aligned to what employers actually need. Every Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities such as placements, internships and industry projects, helping you build your professional network and practical experience before you even graduate. It's an approach that works: nine out of 10 Deakin graduates get a job within four to six months of finishing their degree.
Yes. Most eligible undergraduate students are offered a Commonwealth Supported Place meaning the government subsidises part of your tuition fees. If eligible, you can pay your student contribution using a HECS-HELP loan that you only start repaying once your income is above the repayment threshold. Deakin has scholarships that cater to our diverse student community, ranging from $5,000 per year for high ATAR achievers to $10,000 per year for students facing financial or personal hardship. The University also offers support services including financial counselling, budgeting help and access to short-term, interest-free loans to help you stay on track.
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for student support and that starts the moment you accept your offer. Orientation is designed to help you feel welcome and get to know your community of classmates and teachers from day one. Across all campuses, there's a vibrant student community with clubs, events and opportunities to build real friendships. Deakin offers a range of services to help students stay healthy and safe, including sport and fitness facilities, free counselling, on-campus medical services and around-the-clock security.
Yes, and it's straightforward. You can transfer to Deakin in a few steps and apply for credit through recognition of prior learning (RPL), so you won't necessarily repeat subjects you've already completed. If you're coming from a TAFE partner, you may get guaranteed entry into second year with guaranteed RPL. Deakin's three-trimester system also means you may be able to start mid-year rather than waiting until March.
Most Deakin courses run across three trimesters per year instead of the traditional two semesters. Trimester 1 begins around March, Trimester 2 around July and Trimester 3 around November, each with roughly 12 weeks of teaching followed by an exam period. This means you can usually start your degree at three different points in the year and have more flexibility to manage your study load. Check the intakes by location section on the course page for details.
*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.
What will I study in the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)?
This five-year double degree combines human movement science with engineering design. Throughout the combined degree, you will progressively build expertise in exercise science, mechanical systems and applied engineering. You will learn how to analyse, design and apply solutions in professional contexts while developing problem-solving and professional skills.
Foundations in science and engineering
Human biology and movement fundamentals
Study anatomy, physiology and the musculoskeletal system to understand how the body moves and responds to physical activity.
Core engineering and mathematical skills
Develop analytical tools for engineering, including physics, calculus and mathematical modelling.
Research, design and engineering principles
Learn how to analyse research data, practise safe laboratory work and explore sustainable design approaches in engineering.
Exploring the body and engineering systems
Human performance and physiology
Study how the body grows, ages and adapts to training, building scientific insight into exercise and health.
Engineering mechanics and materials
Learn how forces, fluids and materials behave, analysing mechanical systems and building sustainable design solutions.
Biomechanics and movement analysis
Examine how forces affect movement and apply engineering and exercise science principles to measure and improve performance.
Integrating biomechanics and engineering design
Applied biomechanics and physiology
Analyse muscles, joints and movement patterns to improve performance, health and injury prevention.
Mechanical design and systems
Apply engineering principles to design machines and products, considering materials, stress and thermodynamics.
Motor learning and human behaviour
Explore how physical growth, skill acquisition and psychological factors influence movement and exercise.
Advanced engineering and professional practice
Complex engineering systems
Study advanced topics in structural design, thermodynamics, control systems and manufacturing through project-based learning.
Exercise science in practice
Apply training principles, performance analysis and evidence-based strategies during an extensive professional practicum, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
Professional practice and employability
If you commence in T1, you will complete a 30-day engineering placement to apply skills, reflect on learning and develop professional competence for your future career.
Honours engineering project and advanced analysis
Capstone engineering project
Plan, research and deliver an honours-level project, applying sustainable design principles and advanced engineering methods.
Advanced analysis and simulation
Apply computational modelling, stress analysis and dynamics tools to investigate and optimise mechanical systems.
Exercise science and performance
Explore sport and exercise nutrition, developing knowledge to support training, recovery and athletic performance.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Mechanical Engineering major, you must pass 42 credit points.
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.
Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements
Units
You are required to complete 15 core units (these are essential units for this degree)
In your first trimester you must also complete two 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
^Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course
You are required to complete 20 core units (these are essential units for this degree)
In your first trimester you must also complete two 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
Mechanical Engineering (unit set code MJ-S000194)
~It is recommended students undertake SEJ441 and SEJ446 in consecutive trimesters.
^Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit). Available at the Burwood campus from Trimester 3, 2026.
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.
What to expect while studying
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.
If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
When can I start?
When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.
Enrolment in Trimester 3 study periods is compulsory to complete this course.
Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.
| Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Mechanical Engineering major | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science |
|---|---|
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
- Award granted
Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science / Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400312271 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
1400512271 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) - Deakin code
- D467
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7/8
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$11,692
for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
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.
Scholarships
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.
Applications for 2027 are open
Ready to take the next step? Apply now to start your journey at Deakin and get ready for what’s next.
Key dates
Direct applications
Trimester 1 2027 applications close 7 February 2027
VTAC
Apply now
Apply direct
Simply create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal and educational details, upload your supporting documents and submit your application.
Apply through VTAC
Applications are open. Apply through VTAC if you're:
- currently in Year 12 and applying for Trimester 1 or Semester 1
- applying for multiple undergraduate courses
Need help? Follow our step-by-step undergraduate guide to prepare and submit your application.
Recognition of prior learning
We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for 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.
Not sure if you'll meet entry requirements?
Deakin offers a range of pathways into the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) to suit your background and goals. Explore the pathways finder to see how previous study, diplomas or alternative qualifications can lead you into the course.