The Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology is a postgraduate allied health qualification that prepares graduates to become Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) — recognised clinical professionals who design, implement, and evaluate therapeutic exercise interventions. The course provides advanced academic and practical training in clinical exercise physiology, focusing on the use of exercise as a preventative, prescriptive, and rehabilitative tool for individuals with acute, sub-acute, and chronic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal injuries, cancer, neurological disorders, and mental health conditions. All programs offered in Australia are accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), enabling graduates to apply for ESSA accreditation as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist upon completion.

The degree is designed for graduates of exercise science who wish to move into a clinical practice setting and gain the professional recognition needed to work within Australia's healthcare system. Students develop deep expertise in clinical assessment, exercise prescription, behavioural change counselling, and the management of complex, multi-morbidity cases. A signature feature of every program is a substantial component of supervised clinical placement — typically 360 or more hours across diverse health settings — giving students real-world experience before they graduate.

Graduates work across a wide range of employers, including public and private hospitals, multidisciplinary allied health clinics, rehabilitation centres, aged care facilities, workplace health and injury management services, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), community health organisations, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA), WorkCover, and private practice. Upon completing an ESSA-accredited master's program, graduates are also eligible to apply for Medicare provider numbers, broadening their scope of practice and employment options considerably.

Admission to the Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology typically requires completion of a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a closely related field that is accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) at the Exercise Science level. Most providers require a minimum grade point average (GPA) — commonly equivalent to 60% or above on a weighted average mark — and some institutions require current or eligible membership with ESSA as an Accredited Exercise Scientist. Applicants who hold a non-ESSA accredited degree may be considered if they can demonstrate equivalence through a formal Graduate Entry Assessment (GEA) conducted by ESSA, which verifies that their undergraduate studies meet the foundation competency standards. Some institutions also accept applicants with a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Exercise Rehabilitation as a pathway into the master's program with recognition of prior learning.

Beyond academic qualifications, applicants are typically required to provide a personal statement outlining their motivation, commitment, and understanding of the clinical exercise physiology profession. Relevant industry experience — typically at least six months to one year post-graduation in an exercise science or allied health setting — may be accepted in lieu of a high GPA at some providers. Prior to commencing placements, all students must obtain a current National Police Clearance, a Working with Children Check (or state equivalent), and up-to-date Senior First Aid and CPR certification from a registered training organisation. Some programs also require evidence of vaccination against specified infectious diseases in line with relevant state health policies.

For international students, English language proficiency must be demonstrated, with most providers requiring a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0), or an equivalent score in a recognised English proficiency test such as TOEFL or PTE Academic. International applicants must also ensure their undergraduate degree and ESSA equivalence meet Australian standards. The course is campus-based and includes mandatory in-person components — including practical labs and supervised placements — meaning it cannot be completed entirely online, and students must be available to attend scheduled clinical placement blocks throughout the year.