#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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Proven employability
Learn at the #1 sport science school globally and the #1 university in the state of Victoria for engineering graduate employment.
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Extensive practical experience
Complete up to 220 hours on a sport science placement and 30 to 60 days on an engineering placement to develop industry-ready skills.
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Diverse career pathways in high-demand fields
Graduate prepared for engineering and sport science roles, including careers in wearable technology, biomechanics and rehabilitation.
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World-class facilities
Access elite sports precincts and state-of-the-art, purpose-built engineering precincts, with laboratories designed to match industry standards.
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
FAQs
Deakin's campuses in Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool are set in vibrant, multicultural communities where it is easy to connect and feel at home. As the #1 university in Australia for international student happiness and student satisfaction, you will be supported at every step of your journey. You can join clubs and societies through the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA), attend social events, go on trips and live on campus to meet people from around the world. Each campus has fitness centres, cafes and 24-hour security, as well as prayer rooms and multifaith chaplains.
Deakin offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can reduce your tuition fees by 20%, 25%, 50% or 100% for the duration of your degree. Eligibility varies by scholarship and the degree you choose, but you will automatically be considered for most scholarships when you apply to Deakin. Use the Find a scholarship tool and filter by 'citizenship' to see what is available to you, or explore Australia Awards scholarships if you are from an eligible country.
As an international student at Deakin, you can work part time according to the conditions of your visa. On a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during trimesters. When you are on a trimester break you can work as much as you want. Compulsory work experience that forms part of your degree does not count toward this limit. Find part-time roles and internships through DeakinTALENT and learn more about working in Australia.
Most students studying full time at Deakin need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). You can apply for this visa after you accept your offer and receive your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). To apply, you will need a valid passport, your CoE, proof of Overseas Student Health Cover and any other documents required by the Department of Home Affairs. Apply as early as possible, but do not book travel until your visa has been granted. Find out more about student visas.
Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world for students, with strong legal protections, reliable public services and a multicultural community. In fact, Melbourne is ranked the #4 student city in the world! At Deakin, you will be part of a supportive community, with 24/7 help, dedicated campus security and practical tools to help you feel safe, confident and connected. Deakin’s SafeZone app also connects you directly to campus security and support services if you ever need help. Find out more about studying in Australia.
Deakin offers a wide range of support to help you settle in and succeed throughout your studies – we are ranked the #1 university in Melbourne for student support. You can access 1:1 study support, English language support, career planning help, disability services and free counselling, as well as financial assistance if you need it. On campus, the SafeZone app and 24/7 security services mean help is always within reach. You can explore the full range of support services for international students or start an online chat with a student ambassador before you arrive.
To enrol in an undergraduate degree at Deakin, many degrees require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent). Some degrees require higher scores so check the entry requirements tab on the degree page for details. You may also meet the requirement through recent secondary or university study completed in English, or by demonstrating five or more years of living and working in an English-speaking country. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet meet the requirement, the Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) offers pathway programs to help develop your English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Completion of DUELI’s English for Academic Purposes can give you the minimum English language requirements for most Deakin degrees.
Deakin is the #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment. Our degrees are developed with industry insight, so you will gain career-ready skills from the beginning. Each Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities including placements, internships and projects with well-known industry partners. Our dedicated international student career support program helps you learn about the Australian workforce, make connections and build your network through placements. You will get support with your resume, help looking for an internship or a job after graduation and even advice about your career options overseas.
There is more than one way to study at Deakin. If you do not meet the academic requirements, Deakin College offers a guaranteed pathway to Deakin with small, supportive classes on campus. If you meet the academic requirements but not the English requirements, you can enrol in a Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) English pathway program and progress to your chosen Deakin degree upon successful completion. Deakin also has formal pathway agreements with partner institutions in countries like China, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the United States, so you can start your studies locally before transferring to Australia to complete your degree.
*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
- 1400312273 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
1400512273 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place - 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
Fees
Estimated tuition fee
$46,800
for 1 yr full-time AUD
The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.
Scholarships
Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.
We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.
Apply through VTAC
If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you must submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). In addition, you may also apply directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.
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.