#1 sport science school worldwide*
Benefit from industry connections and partnerships
Graduate job ready through practical learning
Key facts
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
With Deakin's Bachelor of Sport Development, you’ ll examine the science of coaching as well as practical methods of encouraging health and wellbeing through participation and performance in sport. Explore sport pathways and coaching, as well as the marketing and management of sport, and turn your lifelong passion into a rewarding career.
Deakin is the 6th-ranked university in the world for sport-related subjects^, largely due to our leading academics, industry connections, facilities and practical approach to learning. State-of-the-art sports precincts combined with a long list of sports partners – including the Geelong Cats, Netball Australia, Nike Australia, the Melbourne Boomers and Cricket Victoria
– mean you’ll be studying in elite environments, both on and off campus. With over 200 hours of work placement, you can work alongside established professionals in sport while building industry experience that will prepare you for your future career.
Want to make a difference to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities through sport?
If you are considering a degree in sport development, sport has likely had a positive impact on your life. With a Bachelor of Sport Development, you can enter a career that is all about ensuring current and future generations experience the benefits of sport, just like you. You will develop sport programs that improve health and social outcomes, and harness sport’s capacity to bring people together in times of need. In particular, you’ll learn how sport can be used as a powerful tool to rebuild and re-energise communities that have suffered inequality or social challenges.
The study areas you’ll cover are relevant to the needs of the industry and give you a deep understanding of:
- sport systems
- programs and pathways
- contemporary health and community development approaches
- the organisation, management and governance of sport organisations.
Looking for a career that takes you out of the stands and onto the field? The course also trains you in skills related to athlete development and on-field performance. Get practical experience developing coaching programs and sport development philosophies and discover what it takes to prepare individuals and teams for game day.
Your studies will be enriched with real-world experience, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to apply your skills outside of the classroom.
^University Rankings
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Sport Development
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400514421 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- M320
- CRICOS code?
- 058665B Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Sport Development, students must attain a total of 22 core units (11 units from Business and Law and 11 units from Health), 2 elective units (1 unit from Business and Law and 1 unit from Health), plus completion of the 0-credit point module, MAI010 Academic Integrity Module and unit, HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety. Most units (think of units as 'subjects') are equal to 1 credit point. Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester, and usually undertake 2 trimesters each year.
To complete the course you must include:-
- completion of MAI010 Academic Integrity Module (0-credit-point compulsory module)
- completion of HSE010 Exercise and Sport Laboratory Safety (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 3 credit points of Foundation for Sport Development units
- 6 credit points of Sport Organisation Development units
- 5 credit points of Coaching units
- 6 credit points of Community Development units
- 2 credit points of Practicum units
- 2 credit points of elective units (one from Business and Law and one from Health)
Core Units
Foundation for Sport Development units:Sport Organisation Development units:
Coaching units:
Community Development units:
Practicum units:
Compulsory 0-credit point units
To be completed in the first trimester of study:
Elective units
Completion of 2 credit points:
one credit point from Business and Law
one credit point from Health
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.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Units which contain work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, working with children check or other check. These requirements will be detailed in unit guides upon enrolment.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Business and Law, you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, 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
Units in this course may have participation requirements that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Placement can occur at any time, including during the standard holiday breaks listed here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/courses/key-dates.
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
This course provides students the opportunity to complete one or more work integrated learning units.
More Information: WIL Programs
International Students:
This course includes Work Integrated Learning (WIL) formally registered as part of the course on the CRICOS register. The total work integrated learning hours will differ depending on the WIL unit you choose. For more information about WIL hours, please check the unit information in the handbook or the unit guide.
For information about how WIL units may impact student visa holder work rights, please visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. See Schedule 8 (8102)Visa Conditions.
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Ask a question about studying at Deakin
Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
Please complete and submit a personal statement if you would like any of the following to be considered:
- factors outside your control
- your professional work
- life or community experience
Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Special Tertiary Admissions Test - Multiple Choice
All Deakin Business School undergraduate courses require a minimum of 55 on the STAT Multiple Choice (MC) where the applicant has not completed senior secondary education (or equivalent) in the last ten years (from commencement date of the course applied for). The STAT MC is not required if the applicant has undertaken any tertiary study (minimum Certificate IV) within the last ten years (from commencement date of the course applied for).
Personal statement
Please complete and submit a personal statement if you would like any of the following to be considered:
- factors outside your control
- your professional work
- life or community experience
Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Special Tertiary Admissions Test - Multiple Choice
All Deakin Business School undergraduate courses require a minimum of 55 on the STAT Multiple Choice (MC) where the applicant has not completed senior secondary education (or equivalent) in the last ten years (from commencement date of the course applied for). The STAT MC is not required if the applicant has undertaken any tertiary study (minimum Certificate IV) within the last ten years (from commencement date of the course applied for).
Personal statement
Please complete and submit a personal statement if you would like any of the following to be considered:
- factors outside your control
- your professional work
- life or community experience
Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in any Business, any English, Health And Human Development, any Information Technology or Physical Education equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics equals 3 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in any Business, English other than EAL, Health And Human Development, any Information Technology, Maths: Further Mathematics, Physical Education or Physics equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of 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 that 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.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in 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.
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in August.
In the meantime, why not speak to our student advisers about your course and career options? It’s the best way for future students like you to get expert advice on preparing your application.
The Indigenous Access Scheme is a pathway to undergraduate study for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and looks beyond academic results to recognise all the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for study at university.
To apply, complete the online application form.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Sport Development with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
This course will prepare you for roles in coaching, the leisure industry, and sports science and in the field of community sports development.
Career opportunities include:
- Community sports development officer
- Community engagement officer
- Club development officer
- Sport and recreation officer/manager
- Sport program development officer
- Participation coordinator/manager
- Sports coach
- Sport development officer
- Sport governance official
- Sport policy officer.
Professional recognition
Deakin Business School is in the top 1% of business schools globally by holding both AACSB and EQUIS accreditations. These prestigious accreditations are awarded to business schools that meet strict standards of quality, academic and professional excellence, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation in their courses, ensuring our graduates are employable worldwide.
Course learning outcomes
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.
| Graduate Learning Outcome | Course Learning Outcome |
| Discipline specific knowledge and capabilities | Demonstrate core knowledge of the distinction between the development of and through sport by analysis and application of theory in sport development, coaching, and allied disciplines in order to provide effective management in the development and delivery of sport |
| Communication | Develop written, oral and visual communication skills around complex concepts for diverse stakeholders with interests in sport development and coaching including organisations in government and corporate sectors, and those involved in delivery of sport at community through to elite settings |
| Digital literacy | Select and use a range of digital technologies in appropriate ways to manage and disseminate relevant information to stakeholders engaged in sport development and coaching |
| Critical thinking | Demonstrate the ability to exercise reasoned judgement and reflection in relation to managing sport development and coaching |
| Problem solving | Identify and address issues, formulate solutions related to the development and design of sport policy, systems, pathways and practices to implement efficient strategic and operational outcomes for enhancing the development of and through sport |
| Self management | Demonstrate skills to work independently and take responsibility for continuing professional development |
| Teamwork | Constructively engage in teams to contribute to collaborative outcomes and be able to take on roles towards demonstration of sound management of sport development and coaching |
| Global citizenship | Engage as a professional in the sport industry with the skills that are applicable to a variety of contexts (sport science, coaching, sport management) and issues (global, social, ethical, cultural) in the development of and through sport |
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Footnotes
*ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021
#ARWU Rankings 2022