Key facts
Duration
Trimester 1 commencing students: 1 year over 3 consecutive trimesters, or part-time equivalent
Trimester 2 commencing students: 1.5 years over 5 consecutive trimesters, or part-time equivalent
Trimester 3 commencing students: 1.5 years over 4 consecutive trimesters, or part-time equivalent
Locations
OnlineCourse overview
This industry-leading degree prepares you for the full spectrum of challenges faced by sport scientists and high-performance managers working at all levels of sport, from local to elite level. You will graduate with 360 hours of professional practice, or with the research knowledge and skills needed to pursue entry into a PhD. Through our partnerships and your placements, you will build advanced skills and networks that open the door to senior roles.
If you are looking to elevate your career, why not do it with the #1 sport science school in the world?*
Australia’s $1.8 billion sport industry^ is thriving—but that doesn’t mean sport scientists expecting career growth can afford to be complacent. An industry that demands so much of its athletes also demands practitioners who are committed to self-improvement and finding new ways of optimising performance. Deakin’s Master of Applied Sport Science prepares you for this pursuit. It provides valuable professional development opportunities and trains you in skills that give you an edge in a competitive job market. You’ll study at the cutting-edge of sport science, access world-class facilities and benefit from extensive industry partnerships that help move your career forward.
The course prepares you for both the technical and managerial aspects of high performance sport. Build specialised skills in:
- High-performance management
- Advanced sport performance analysis
- Strength and conditioning
- Training design and program evaluation
- Scientific processes for sport scientists.
Complement these skills by boosting your management capabilities through studies in leadership, culture development and continuous improvement. These management skills don’t just make you more employable – they give you the ability to implement systems to optimise opportunities for team success and allow you to develop your support staff as well as your athletes. Importantly, you will get to practise your new skills in simulated and real sports science settings. Just a few examples of these practical learning experiences include:
- 360 hours of professional practice – through Professional Practice in Sports Science or Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sport Science work at an organisation that matches your career aspirations and see what it’s like to be a leading voice within a high performance team.
- Research projects – work with a supervisory team to produce a critical review of literature that can be published in a journal relevant to your career path – and be ready for entry into a PhD.
- Hands-on access to world-class facilities – study, work and play at our new multi-million dollar Specialised Indoor Exercise and Sport Science Teaching Building and Elite Regional Sports Precinct.
The curriculum is underpinned by science and research. You will graduate with the ability to critically evaluate and apply research to make confident, evidence-based decisions in your role. Better still, you will have direct access to academics with expertise in a broad range of sport science and nutrition fields. This includes specialist researchers within Deakin’s multidisciplinary Centre for Sport Research (CSR) and Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN).
This course offers two entry streams: an Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA) Applied Sport Science Accreditation stream # and a non-accreditation stream. Your existing qualifications or current ESSA accreditation will determine which stream you’re eligible for. Students accepted into the ESSA-accredited stream will complete Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sports Science as part of their studies. This unit provides an accredited placement in a sport setting, where you’ll apply your knowledge across areas such as performance analysis, strength and conditioning, and high-performance management. You’ll build your professional network, strengthen your industry profile and reflect on your progress as you work toward meeting national accreditation standards.
Benefit from a network of over 150 industry connections, including our official partners Netball Victoria and the Melbourne Vixens, Geelong Football Club, Sport Australia Hall of Fame, and the Deakin Melbourne Boomers; as well as close ties with Cricket Australia, Swimming Australia, Tennis Australia and the Victorian Institute of Sport. This gives our sport science students a big advantage. It means that everything you study is closely linked to the state of the industry. It also gives you the opportunity to learn alongside established professionals, building relationships that shape your career.
The Master of Applied Sport Science is available on our premium online learning platform. This gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, so you can complete your degree on your terms.
*Shanghai Ranking's Global Ranking of Sport Science Schools and Departments 2021 - 2025
^ Sport in Australia - Market Research Report (2013-2028)
# The Master of Applied Sport Science (accreditation stream) is currently undergoing accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Applied Sport Science
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H707
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
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Course structure
To complete the Master of Applied Sport Science, you must pass 12 credit points. The number of credit points required may vary, depending on your entry point or how much credit you receive as recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on your professional experience and previous qualifications.
A 12-credit point Master of Applied Sport Science includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
- 12 credit points of core units
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Core Units
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 1 - Trimester 3
*The Master of Applied Sport Science (accreditation stream) is currently undergoing accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
* * Unit is offered through start anytime periods - prerequisites must be met. Students who are admitted into the ESSA accreditation stream must complete HSE741 Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sports Science.
^These units have practical Intensive components. Please refer to ‘Participation requirements’ section for further information.
Core Units
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 1 - Trimester 3
Plus
Or
* * Unit is offered through start anytime periods - prerequisites must be met.
^These units have practical Intensive components. Please refer to ‘Participation requirements’ section for further information.
Students will be able to undertake the research pathway with HSE737, HSE738 and HSE739 OR the professional pathway with HSE737, HSE738 and HSE740
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Start date: November
- Available at:
Intensives Information
International students are strongly encouraged to carefully consider their obligations to attend on-campus practical intensives at Deakin University campuses in Melbourne - Burwood and Geelong - Waurn Ponds. These obligations relate to three units;
- HSE721 High Performance Management in Sport
- HSE724 Strength and Conditioning Methods for Athletes
- HSE725 Factors Influencing Training Design for Sport
Students should use the handbook to determine in which trimester/s these units are offered. In some circumstances it may be possible enrol in all three units in one trimester so that you can complete all practical intensive obligations in one visit to Australia. Detailed information about each practical intensive is announced on course and unit CloudDeakin sites.
International students who wish to attend the intensives at Deakin University, Australia, please refer to the visa information below.
STUDY AT THE #1 SPORT SCIENCE SCHOOL IN THE WORLD
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
Other course information
IMPORTANT: Please note that due to Australian Government regulations, student visas to enter Australia cannot be issued to students who enrol in Deakin’s online courses. To participate in the mandatory campus based scheduled sessions, it is suggested that you apply for a Visitor Visa to study for a short period in Australia. Please be advised that Deakin University cannot guarantee that you will be granted a Visitor Visa by the Australian Government.
Read more about Visitor Visas on the Department of Home Affairs website and other options to study in Australia on the government website at Explore visa options (homeaffairs.gov.au)
All places offered to international students in this course are only offered via online study mode. Deakin University is not obligated to provide any students with a COE (confirmation of enrolment) to facilitate a student visa application.
Mandatory student checks
Not mandatory for all students. Applicable only to students undertaking practicum units HSE740 Professional Practice in Sport Science or HSE741 Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sport Science.
Working with Children Check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) for the relevant state prior to undertaking a optional placement as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students if they enrol into an optional placement unit. Learn more about the Working with Children Check.
Police record check
Applicants will be required to hold a valid National Police Record Check for any optional placements as part of this course. Further information and guidance will be provided to students if they enrol into an optional placement unit.
Workload
As a student in an online course in the Faculty of Health you will be expected to spend at least 11-13 hours per unit every week participating in a range of teaching activities each week. This will include online learning activities and may be inclusive of online discussion boards and seminars. 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. Teaching, placements and assessment tasks may take place outside of Deakin University teaching periods.
Participation requirements
HSE721, HSE724, HSE725 and HSE726 have on campus intensives. Intensives are typically delivered for 2 to 5 days.
Domestic students must attend HSE721, HSE724 and HSE725 intensives on-campus at Deakin University. HSE726 can be completed on campus at Deakin University or online.
International students must attend HSE724 and HSE725 intensives on campus at Deakin University, Australia. HSE721 and HSE726 intensives must be completed either on-campus at Deakin University, Australia or online (video conferencing). International students who wish to complete intensives in person please refer to the visa information under 'Additional course information' section.
Work experience
Work integrated learning
Students enrolled in HSE740 Professional Practice in Sport Science or HSE741 Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sport Science will undertake 360 hours of practical experience in an exercise and sport science work practicum in the final trimester.
You have the opportunity to undertake hands-on experience in a variety of sporting environments. These may vary from local, state or national sporting organisations, elite and semi-elite sporting clubs and state and national institutes of sport.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
This course offers two entry streams, an ESSA accredited stream and non-accredited stream. Your existing qualifications or accreditation will determine which stream/s are available to you.
Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA) Applied Sport Science Accreditation stream*
To be considered for admission into the Applied Sports Science accredited stream of this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of an Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA) accredited Exercise Science bachelor degree . Please refer to the list of ESSA-accredited exercise science courses. You are required to provide your academic transcript in your application
- hold current Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES) accreditation with ESSA and provide membership evidence in your application
- completion of a bachelor degree other than those above and; can demonstrate that you have covered all of the elements required for accreditation at the Exercise Science level of ESSA via completion of the ESSA Graduate Entry Assessment with a copy of the assessment outcome letter included in your application
Non-accredited stream
To be considered for admission to the non-accredited stream of this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in a related discipline**
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher in any discipline and at least two years' of relevant work experience#
* The Master of Applied Sport Science (accreditation stream) is currently undergoing accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
* * Examples of related discipline areas include, but not limited to Health Science, Exercise Science, Sport Science, Human Movement, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Sport Coaching and Development, Sports Medicine, Physiotherapy, Physical Therapy.
#Relevant work experience refers to a Sport Science role, which includes strength and conditioning, working with athletes who are being training for sport competition. This does not include roles in the fitness industry or work with non-athletes.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) in each component of test
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Applicants are required to complete an Enrolment Stream Nomination Form to be uploaded with their application.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
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.
Students who are seeking Recognition of prior learning based on non-formal studies (eg. work experience) and wish to apply for ESSA professional accreditation please refer to Professional Recognition section on this course page.
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.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$25,800 for 1 yr full-time AUD
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for your course.
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
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.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
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.
Enrolment stream nomination form
Applicants must complete the Enrolment stream nomination form as part of their application. To submit the Enrolment stream nomination form, please download the PDF form, complete and sign it. Then submit the filled-out form along with your application.
Need more information on how to apply?
For information on the application process, including required documents and important dates, see the How to apply webpage.
If you need assistance, please contact us.
Pathways
Students completing the appropriate elective (HSE739 Research Project in Sport Science) with the appropriate grade (>70%) will be eligible for entry into higher degree by research (i.e., PhD) studies.
Alternate exits
- Graduate Certificate of Applied Sport Science (H507)
- Graduate Certificate of Sport Performance Analysis (H514)
- Graduate Certificate of Strength and Conditioning (H513)
- Graduate Diploma of Applied Sport Science (H607)
Career outcomes
The course prepares you for career growth in the sports science industry. Graduate with a sought-after combination of sports science and managerial skills that set you up for success in roles such as:
- high performance manager
- sports scientist
- strength and conditioning coach
- rehabilitation coach
- sports performance analyst.
Accredited Sports Scientists are increasingly in demand among national and local sporting organisations across Australia. Many employers now prioritise, or exclusively hire, practitioners with at least a Level 1 accreditation as an Accredited Sports Scientist.
Students who complete the accreditation stream of this course will be eligible to apply for recognition as an Accredited Sports Scientist with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). While the Master of Applied Sport Science (accreditation stream) is currently undergoing the formal ESSA accreditation process, this does not prevent graduates from applying. Instead, you will need to apply through ESSA’s non-ESSA-Accredited Course application pathway, which still enables you to meet the requirements for professional accreditation. Please refer to the ESSA website for full details on eligibility and application steps.
Professional recognition
We are recognised as an industry provider for the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA).
Upon completion of the Master of Applied Sport Science, you may be eligible to apply for Associate level 2 ASCA accreditation.
In addition to the theoretical and practical skills gained through units HSE724 Strength and Conditioning for High Performing Athletes and HSE725 Advanced Training Design for Sport, you will need to demonstrate to ASCA that you meet the journal article and practical coaching experience that can be gained through HSE737 Sport Science Literature Review and HSE738 Professional Issues in Sport Science and HSE740 Professional Practice in Sport Science or HSE741 Professional Practice for Accreditation in Sport Science respectively.
To be eligible to use this accreditation pathway, you must have completed two or more years of an Exercise & Sport Science degree or hold ASCA level 1 accreditation, before you attend your first practical intensive with us.
The Master of Applied Sport Science (accreditation stream) is currently undergoing accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). While the course is not yet formally accredited, students who complete the accreditation stream will still be eligible to apply for recognition as an Accredited Sports Scientist through ESSA’s non-ESSA-Accredited Course application pathway. This pathway enables you to pursue professional accreditation and strengthen your standing in the sport science industry.
For more details, visit ASCA and ESSA.
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
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply expert and integrated knowledge of sport science to sport performance related problems and contribute to the development of new knowledge through use of appropriate research principles and methods of sport sciences. |
| Communication | Use appropriate modes of communication to interpret, contextualize and transmit evidence based sport science knowledge to specialist and non- specialist audiences. Create, disseminate, and exchange sport science knowledge with a view to inform and effect change at the individual and organisational level. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital technologies to effectively locate, use, curate and disseminate information and resources relevant to sport science and to connect, engage and share with professional networks and communities. |
| Critical thinking | Critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts and theories in sport science. |
| Problem solving | Investigate complex sports science problems and respond effectively using an evidence-based framework and a range of sources to identify and define problems, locate, analyse and organise information, and generate and evaluate practical solutions, contributing new insights or understanding. |
| Self-management | Employ high level personal responsibility, accountability and autonomy to demonstrate expert judgement, adaptability to new situations and responsibility as a sport scientist. Plan, implement, evaluate and continually adapt strategies to learn and work effectively, autonomously and responsibly. |
| Teamwork | Establish, contribute to and maintain a key role in collaborative and interdisciplinary relationships, with a range of stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes to advance sport sciences across the broad spectrum of contexts. |
| Global citizenship | Engage in professional and ethical practice that demonstrates a high level of personal autonomy, awareness of, and adaptability to, diverse social, cultural and environmental contexts in sport sciences. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
