Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Exercise is a powerful tool to improve human performance and health outcomes. Train to apply the science of exercise physiology to real people, within real clinical, healthcare and performance settings. At UniSC you’ll build strong foundations in anatomy, physiology, behaviour change and clinical reasoning, then translate evidence into practice through person-centred exercise assessment, prescription and delivery. This program develops the professional attributes expected of an ESSA Accredited Exercise Physiologist and Exercise Scientist, including inclusive practice, ethical conduct, effective communication and appropriate digital practice. Ultimately, you will be equipped to prevent disease and injuries, and to manage health, lifestyle and behaviour change from clinical through to community and performance settings.
Graduate outcomes: Be ready to use exercise medicine to promote health, fitness and performance across clinical, community, sport and workplace contexts. You’ll be equipped to program exercise and prescribe evidence-based training for clinical through to sporting populations, and to pursue roles in as an accredited exercise physiologist in hospitals, health clinics, rehabilitation facilities, gyms, sporting teams, and more.
In this program you will:
- Build depth in your foundational knowledge of functional anatomy, exercise physiology and pathophysiology, and sport psychology, with a focus on strength and conditioning through to rehabilitation.
- Learn how to use the latest evidence to assess, prescribe and deliver exercise medicine for the prevention and management of disease and injury, and for the maintenance of health.
- Work with case studies that progressively integrate screening, risk management, clinical reasoning and program design across clinical, general population, and sub-elite sport, with opportunities to engage with clinical patients as well as national and international level athletes.
- Develop competency in behaviour change, coaching communication and safe, ethical practice—including telepractice and digital delivery.
- Undertake a minimum of 500 hours of supervised professional practice across clinical, sub-acute, community and sport settings.
Location
CRICOS code
Entry threshold
ATAR/RankDuration
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.Indicative fees
Indicative 2026 fees (A$)
CSP Annual feeQTAC code
Start
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 1
Program to be rolled out. 1st year 2026, 2nd year 2027, 3rd year 2028, 4th Year 2029.
Career opportunities
- Cancer and renal disease rehabilitation
- Cardiac and pulmonary testing
- case management and research
- Exercise Physiologist
- Musculoskeletal injury prevention and management
- Neurological rehabilitation
- Occupational rehabilitation
Memberships
Graduates may be eligible to become members of:
- Sports Medicine Australia
Accreditation
This degree is professionally accredited at the levels of Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
Note: External accreditation requirements for this program allow for credit transfer to be granted for study completed at minimum of AQF level 7 Bachelor degree level only. Credit transfer cannot be granted for study completed within a qualification lower than AQF level 7 Bachelor degree (e.g. TAFE/RTO level Advanced Diploma or lower), or for non-formal learning.
- Start
-
- Trimester 1
- Trimester 1
- Delivery mode
-
- Blended Learning
- Total courses
- 30
- Total units
- 384
- Duration
- 4 years 4 years
- CRICOS code
- 098401F
- UniSC program code
- SC304
- Program coordinator
Introductory courses
96 units
HLT109 Anatomy & Physiology I
HLT110 Anatomy & Physiology II
HLT112 Introduction to Health Science Research Methods
SPX100 Physical Activity and Health
SPX101 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Science
SPX102 Introduction to Coaching Science
SPX104 Professional Practice in Health, Sport and Exercise
SPX121 Exercise Prescription and Programming I
Developing courses
108 units
HLT221 Human Pathophysiology
NUT212 Principles of Nutrition
SPX201 Functional Anatomy
SPX202 Biomechanics I
SPX203 Exercise Prescription and Programming II
SPX211 Exercise Physiology I
SPX221 Sports and Exercise Medicine
SPX222 Sport and Exercise Psychology
SPX231 Motor Control and Learning
Graduate courses
168 units
SPX300 Professional Placement in Sport and Exercise Science
SPX301 Exercise in Cardiorespiratory and Metabolic Health
SPX306 Clinical Skills for Exercise Physiology
SPX322 Biomechanics II
SPX331 Exercise Physiology II
SPX400 Professional Placement in Clinical Exercise Physiology I
SPX404 Professional Placement in Clinical Exercise Physiology II
SPX410 Exercise Management in Chronic Disease
SPX411 Exercise in Neurological and Complex Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
SPX412 Exercise for Mental Health and Diverse Population Care
SPX413 Exercise for Complex Cases and Multimorbidity Management
Required courses from a specified list
12 units
Select 12 units from:
BUS104 Discovering Management
BUS105 Marketing Essentials
COU180 Therapeutic Communication Skills
HLT150 Indigenous Wellbeing Foundations
HLT306 Health Research Project I
SPX371 Advanced Coaching Science
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus.
In order to graduate you must:
- Successfully complete 384 units as outlined in the Program Structure
- All 100, 200 and 300 level courses MUST be completed prior to commencing 400 level courses
- Enrolment in placement courses (SPX300 and SPX404) subject to special entry requirements and by Course Coordinator approval only.
- Courses from Year 3, Trimester 2 are taught outside of standard teaching trimesters, and utilise nested teaching 'Sessions' to make the best use of student time. Students should refer to the Session Timetables for official university dates.
- For Sippy Downs students some courses in this program will be taught at the Sunshine Coast Heath Institute
- Note: External accreditation requirements for this program allow for credit transfer to be granted for study completed at minimum of AQF level 7 Bachelor degree level only. Therefore, credit transfer cannot be granted for study completed at TAFE/RTO level (Advanced Diploma or lower), or for non-formal learning.
Program notes
Several courses in this program include ESSA-aligned practical competencies. These skills are taught, practised, and assessed in scheduled on-campus classes.
To meet course learning outcomes and maintain alignment with ESSA accreditation standards, attendance and active participation in these classes are expected. Many courses have practical assessments that require your in-person demonstration of competency to pass the course. Students who do not attend required sessions may be unable to demonstrate the necessary competencies and may not meet progression or accreditation-aligned requirements.
If you anticipate any barriers to attendance, please contact the Course Coordinator early to discuss options in line with UniSC policies on reasonable adjustments.
Note for international students (ESSA accreditation):
If you plan to seek ESSA accreditation after graduating, please note that ESSA’s English language requirements are higher than UniSC’s minimum entry requirements. To be eligible for ESSA accreditation you must demonstrate proficiency at one of the following minimum scores:
- IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0 with 7.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
- TOEFL iBT: Total 98 with Listening 24, Reading 24, Speaking 23, Writing 27
- PTE (Academic): Overall 65 with 65 in each communicative skill
These standards are set by ESSA (not UniSC). If you do not meet them at admission, you’ll need to achieve them before applying for ESSA accreditation. For advice, please contact the Program Coordinator or Student Services.
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per trimester (normally 4 courses) and following the recommended study sequence
- The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
- It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods
- As part of your UniSC program, you may apply to Study Overseas to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. It is advisable to contact your Program Advisor to discuss timing and course issues. Students should be aware there are restrictions applicable to credit transfer in order to obtain ESSA accreditation and they should contact their Program Coordinator if considering participating in the Study Overseas program
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
- Refer to the Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.
WIL notes
It is no longer a requirement that students in Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Please note that some placement host organisations have chosen to continue requiring COVID-19 vaccination. If you are not fully vaccinated, it is important to know that placement opportunities in your program may be limited and may result in a delay to your placement.
UniSC still strongly recommends that all students undertaking placement are fully vaccinated and provide evidence of this vaccination status to the University.
It is a Queensland Government requirement that students undertaking a placement within a clinical setting are fit tested annually for an approved respirator. Clinical settings include hospitals, residential aged care facilities, residential disability care facilities, prison health services, youth detention health services, community health care settings, and vaccination clinics). If the Fit Testing requirement applies to placement activity within your Program it will appear in your mandatory checks on Sonia Online. In accordance with Australian Standards, you must be clean shaven for your fit test. Facial hair that lies along the sealing surface of a tight-fitting respirator prevents an effective seal. Therefore, it is a requirement that there is no hair growth between the skin and the facepiece sealing surface in order to achieve a fit. At this stage, there is no exemption in Queensland to this requirement for religious or other reasons and UniSC is unable to waive this requirement.
In order to commence fieldwork placement you must:
- Hold a valid Suitability Card (Blue Card - Working with Children Check - QLD). This is required by week 6 of the third year placement course and is issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian (CCYPCG). The application timeline for this Card is usually in the region of 6-8 weeks, therefore it is advised that this process is initiated at the time of enrolment into the third year placement course if not before
- Provide evidence of immunity to Hepatitis B (blood titre level after approved vaccination schedule)
- Hold current First Aid and CPR certificates (currency of certification is to be maintained throughout the program)
- You may also be required to complete a Criminal History Check for particular placements, cost of which is borne by the student
- For more information on mandatory requirements refer to Sport and Exercise Science/Clinical Exercise Science - Placements
This study sequence reflects the current program structure. Continuing students must follow their commencing structure, which can be found in the previous student handbooks.
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Adjusted ATARs are a calculation of a student's ATAR + eligible adjustment factors and are used to determine admission. The raw ATAR is the student's rank before any adjustments are applied.
Entry requirements
For entry into most UniSC undergraduate degree programs, you need to have completed a minimum level of education similar to successful completion of Australian Year 12 with good grades.
Further studies, for example, a semester or more at college or university, can also be considered for entry and may give you credit transfer towards a degree.
Some examples of upper secondary qualifications and a guide to the minimum grades that UniSC will consider are listed here. These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee entry. Some programs may require higher grades. Alternative qualifications may also be considered on a case by case basis.
If your qualification (grouped by country) is not listed, send the qualification transcripts with your application form to the International Office for assessment.
English language requirements
You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).
Minimum entry threshold
Applicants must meet the minimum ATAR/Rank.
| Location | ATAR/Rank |
|---|---|
| Sunshine Coast | 70.00 |
| Moreton Bay | 70.00 |
Post admission requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 500 hours of supervised placement. Students may be required to undertake some clinical placement hours outside the Sunshine Coast region in metropolitan and regional/rural areas.
Before undertaking placements (e.g. by year 3), students must provide evidence of immunisations, first aid training, satisfactory criminal history check, and hold a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check). Students may also be required to complete QLD Health orientation package.
Additional entry information
Applicants from a non-English speaking background should refer to the English language requirements for further information.
- Recommended prior study
- English; General Maths, Maths Methods or Specialist Maths, Biology; and one additional science (preferably Chemistry)
Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.
Refer to Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology - Inherent Academic Requirements
UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.
What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?
The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.
Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.
UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.
Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.
Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support.
Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?
IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.
How does this affect you?
To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.
If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.
If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.
Headstart Program - Years 10 to 12
The Headstart program lets you study uni subjects while you’re still in high school. If you successfully complete two Headstart courses, you’ll get a selection rank that you could use to get into uni.
Early Offer Guarantee scheme - Year 12
The Early Offer Guarantee scheme enables Year 12 students to be offered a place at UniSC on the basis of their Principal's recommendation.
Prior study or work experience
If you:
- have completed Year 12 (no matter how long ago)
- have a TAFE/VET qualification
- have relevant work experience, or
- have studied at university before (even if you didn’t complete your studies)
You may be eligible for a selection rank, which can help you get into uni. For more detailed information selection ranks and how applications are assessed, visit Admissions explained.
Tertiary Preparation Pathway
If you don’t have qualifications or experience that will give you a selection rank, you can complete the Tertiary Preparation Pathway as a stepping stone into most degrees. You can also use TPP to complete subject prerequisites.
If you haven’t studied in a while, TPP is also a great way to brush up on essential study skills like critical reading, assignment writing and referencing.
It can also build your knowledge and confidence in the subject areas you’ll need for your degree, like science or maths. TPP courses are fee-free for eligible domestic students.
Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS)
You may be eligible for direct entry into a UniSC degree based on your potential to succeed, under UniSC’s Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS). All you have to do is complete an online application through our website.
High-school leavers completing year 12 are not eligible, and must apply through QTAC.
Further study pathways
This program provides a pathway to higher degree research, including Master's and PhD programs and prepares graduates for research-focused careers across health, biomedical science and related sectors.
- CSP estimate
- A$12,485 - 2026 Fees
- Annual tuition fee (A$, 2026)
- A$32,500
Additional student costs
For Year 4 courses and clinical placements, students will be required to purchase: - UniSC polo shirt to be worn as uniform during clinical placements - Clinical tools, particularly a set of diagnostic equipment, comprising at least a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, tape measure, goniometer. Students are expected to retain these tools throughout their careers.
Commonwealth supported places
Commonwealth supported places are substantially subsidised by the Australian Government so that students only pay 'student contribution" amounts. The student contribution amount will vary depending on the course you are studying and how much funding the Government provides.
If you accept a Commonwealth supported place you are a Commonwealth supported student. As a Commonwealth supported student you must make a contribution towards the cost of your education (unless you are enrolled in Enabling or Tertiary Preparation Pathway courses) with the majority of the cost met by the Commonwealth Government.
Commonwealth supported places are only available to domestic students. As a domestic student you are entitled to a Commonwealth supported place in an eligible program if you:
- meet the citizenship and residency requirements
- complete an electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF)
- meet the University's entry requirements for your chosen program.
International fee-paying places
Annual tuition fees are based on 2025 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.
Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).
All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).
Domestic applicants apply for admission through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Some applicants may be eligible to apply direct to UniSC if they meet certain criteria.
Find out about how to apply and key application closing dates.
Note: All programs are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change. Applicants are encouraged to review the program information before enrolling at UniSC.
No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.
Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.
Need help with submitting your application?
UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.
Any questions? Contact us.
Note: All programs are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change. Applicants are encouraged to review the program information before enrolling at UniSC.
QTAC code
| Location | QTAC code |
|---|---|
| Sunshine Coast | 013251 |
| Moreton Bay | 014252 |
Need advice on what to study or how to apply?
Our Student Central team can help.
Call us +61 7 5430 2890
Email us information@unisc.edu.au
For locations and opening hours, visit Student Central.