#1 sport science school in the world
Exercise and Sports Science Australia-accredited pathway
Up to 295 hours of practicum experience
Why choose Deakin
Combine a drive for exercise and sport with a passion for food and nutrition with this double degree. Deakin is home to the world's #1 sport science school - gain a field-leading education in improving performance, nutrition, health and participation for individuals and teams.
Learn how people respond to exercise while applying evidence-based nutritional strategies to support performance, recovery, health and wellbeing in athletes and the general population. Gain a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, physiology, development, health and behaviour, alongside nutrient metabolism, lifespan nutrition, dietary analysis and the role of nutrition in disease prevention, sustainability and population wellbeing. You'll also develop expertise in strength and conditioning, biomechanics, exercise physiology, exercise prescription and delivery and behaviour change. Benefit from extensive practical learning opportunities and career mentoring, opening the door to a wide range of careers.
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#1 sport science school worldwide
Learn from the best by studying exercise and sport science at Deakin.
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Dual expertise in sport and nutrition
Study a double degree that combines exercise and sport science with in-depth nutrition science for broader career options.
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Elite sport and nutrition facilities
Train in our world-class sport facilities and specialist food and nutrition labs designed for hands-on learning.
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Industry-connected learning
Gain hands-on experience through placements and projects with partners including the AFL, Tennis Australia and food industry partners.
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 exercise, sport and nutrition knowledge for careers supporting performance, participation, health and wellbeing.
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
Nutritionist
Support individuals and communities to make informed food and nutrition choices that improve health, wellbeing and disease prevention.
- 16.6%
Projected job growth in 5 years
- $90k
Typical annual salary in Australia
Other jobs
- Sport scientist
- Strength and conditioning coach
- Nutrition consultant
- Health promotion officer
- Research assistant
- Health and fitness coordinator
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 Nutrition Science?
This double degree combines exercise science with nutrition science, preparing you to understand performance, health and physical activity from complementary scientific perspectives.
Scientific foundations
Anatomy and physiology
Develop an understanding of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and metabolic systems that underpin movement, exercise and nutrition.
Human growth and development
Explore how the human body grows, develops and functions across the lifespan, building foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology and research methods relevant to exercise, sport and nutrition science.
Foundations of nutrition
Examine nutrient digestion, absorption and metabolism, and their relationship to health and physical performance.
Applied science development
Physical activity and exercise
Explore the role of physical activity in health and wellbeing while building knowledge in exercise prescription and delivery, motor learning and development, and exercise physiology.
Nutritional metabolism
Investigate nutrient utilisation and diet’s role in chronic disease prevention and performance outcomes through case-based learning.
Applied practice foundations
Develop professional skills through practical laboratory work, performance testing and industry-informed learning tasks.
Professional capability
Advance your studies
Learn how to design and implement structured programs for athletic, clinical and community populations. Analyse physiological and mechanical factors influencing performance, efficiency and injury risk, and understand how to promote physical activity.
Nutrition across the lifespan
Apply nutrition science across varied life stages and health contexts, including prevention and performance.
Placement experience
Complete 80 hours of work placement in an exercise and sport organisational setting.
Advanced integration
Consolidate your exercise and sport science knowledge
Undertake a minimum 140-hour supervised fieldwork placement, while deepening your understanding of biomechanics, sport behaviour and nutrition.
Practical experience in food and nutrition
Complete an optional 75 hours of practical experience in a food or nutrition industry environment.
Global perspective
If you don’t complete a placement, choose to participate in an elective international study tour exploring food, nutrition and health contexts in countries such as the Netherlands or Singapore.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science, you must pass 32 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
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Year 4 - Trimester 1
Year 4 - Trimester 2
plus one nutrition elective unit (must be HSN coded unit from level 3)
* Unit also available in Trimester 3
** Unit also available in Trimester 2
^ Indicates compulsory practicum core unit students need to complete in this course - refer course structure
+ Assumed knowledge: SLE133 Chemistry in our World or high achievement in VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 (or equivalent)
Professional recognition
This course allows you to receive recognition from both nutrition and exercise science professional bodies.
While studying, you’re eligible to apply for student membership with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA). Graduates can apply for ordinary membership of NSA or apply to become a registered associate nutritionist. Registration ensures you’re recognised as a qualified nutrition professional in the field. The course is globally recognised too – as a graduate, you’re also eligible to apply to become a registered associate nutritionist with the Hong Kong Nutrition Association and the UK Association for Nutrition.
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 Nutrition Science, 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 (eg. course transcripts and course completion certificates). Students who received credits based on informal learning (eg. work experience) 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.
What to expect while studying
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.
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.
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.
The course contains compulsory practicum hours designed to meet the ESSA Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) professional standards, which comprise a minimum of 80 hours of exercise prescription and 140 hours of work integrated learning in an area of exercise and sports science aligned to your chosen career path.
You can also choose to study the Food and Nutrition Practicum in your final year, giving you a further 75 hours of practical food or nutrition industry experience.
Upon achievement of the prerequisite requirements, placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks listed on the Important dates page.
If you are an athlete registered with the Elite Athlete Friendly University program, additional supports may be available to help you manage placement and course participation requirements.
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science features two compulsory practical experiences through work-based practicum. In third year, you will complete 80 hours of work integrated learning in exercise assessment, prescription and delivery. In your fourth year, you will also complete 140 hours of work-integrated learning in an exercise and sport science setting related to your career path.
These work integrated learning experiences provide you with 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, and fitness providers. The roles can involve coaching, sport science, sports administration, sport management, exercise research and fitness, while many graduates have been offered subsequent employment based on their excellent practicum/fieldwork performance.
In addition to work integrated learning experiences in sporting, exercise or health environments, you may also choose to gain further practical experience through studying HSN311 Food and Nutrition Practicum as an elective in your final year. This allows you to build industry experience and connections while applying your skills alongside established nutritionists.
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.
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 Exercise and Sport Science (H343) | Course Learning Outcomes Bachelor of Nutrition Science (H315) |
|---|---|
| Demonstrate autonomy, responsibility and well-developed theoretical and technical knowledge within the broad disciplines of exercise and sport science. | Apply food and nutrition and health knowledge from a range of perspectives. |
| Demonstrate clear and accurate communication using a range of modes to select and deliver relevant information. | Select and use a variety of engaging communication modes to disseminate knowledge to individuals, groups, government and non-government organisations and health professionals. |
| 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 appropriate technologies to source, understand, evaluate, and communicate information to professional networks and communities. |
| Use information from multiple sources of evidence to inform decision making applied to exercise and sport science. | Source and critically analyse the food and nutrition literature to apply an evidence-based approach to the field. |
| 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 apply practical solutions to a range of changing and complex food and nutrition and health issues. |
| 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. | Employ self-directed, reflective work and learning practices in a responsible manner to professionally contribute to nutrition sciences. |
| Consistently demonstrate professional behaviours while making effective contributions across a range of roles when undertaking collaborative work within intra- and inter-disciplinary teams. | Work collaboratively as part of interdisciplinary teams with a range of stakeholders to advance the field of nutrition sciences. |
| Practise ethical and professional behaviours with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, diverse global and local perspectives in exercise and sport science. | Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates awareness of, and adaptability to, diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts in nutrition sciences. |
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science / Bachelor of Nutrition Science
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400310613 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
1400510613 - Burwood (Melbourne), International full-fee paying place - Deakin code
- D333
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 098564J 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
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.
If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for Recognition of prior learning. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your Recognition of prior learning.
Your Recognition of prior learning is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.
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.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) will only be awarded based on formal learning that includes documented learning outcomes and assessment, such as course transcripts and completion certificates. Students seeking RPL based on informal or non-formal learning, such as work experience, and who wish to obtain ESSA professional accreditation, will need to apply through the non-ESSA accredited course application pathway and should refer to the Professional Recognition section for further information.