Course Overview

About This Course

The Diploma of Sport and Exercise Science has been designed as an AQF level 5 course. The Diploma will provide graduates with the foundational knowledge and skills required to work in entry-level positions within the sport and exercise science industry, support career progression, and as preparation for further study.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

10 Parkview Drive, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW

10 Parkview Dr, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW 2127

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

A minimum NSW HSC (Higher School Certificate) or equivalent meeting required standards in relevant subjects
Performance in relevant Year 11 results for early entry pending release of HSC results
An Associate Diploma, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Tertiary Preparation Certificate from a TAFE or other recognised VET provider qualification
A completed Certificate III or Certificate IV from a TAFE or other recognised VET provider qualification
One year of full-time or an equivalent study in a degree course at a recognised higher education institute in Australia or an equivalent
Satisfaction of entry requirements specified under formal articulation arrangements as determined by the ACPE Academic Board
Completion of a Big Picture Education Portfolio at a Big Picture School, supported by a recommendation from the school principal
A recognised overseas qualification with demonstrated proficiency in English
Demonstration to the CEO or the Dean's satisfaction of good selection prospects as a student (e.g. relevant work experience and motivation to study)
All applicants must meet minimum computer literacy standards as determined by ACPE and have unrestricted access to the internet and a personal email account
Mac or Windows laptop with the following minimum requirements: 16GB of memory, 256 GB SSD, Intel Core i5 or i7 processor and a front facing webcam/camera
Domestic applicants must be 18 years of age or turn 18 within their first semester of study
International applicants must be 18 years of age or older
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements for their chosen course of study
A valid Working with Children Check must be supplied to ACPE before commencing the course (for units involving work-integrated learning with children)

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Personal Trainer (average salary: $70,000–$90,000), Health and Wellbeing Coordinator (average salary: $80,000–$100,000), Sports Trainer (average salary: $65,000–$90,000), Athletic Performance Coach (average salary: $70,000–$100,000), Fitness and Membership Advisor (average salary: $50,000–$70,000).

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Professional Body

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ESSA

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units8 units

GHS1301

Understanding Health

Provides students with an understanding of the various social, biological and environmental determinants that shape the health of individuals and populations. Also equips students with foundational academic learning, numeracy and literacy skills required for success in all aspects of their studies.

HSC1106

Foundations of Sport and Exercise Science

Provides students with knowledge and understanding of the skills and standards required of an exercise science professional. Technical and communications skills are a focus, with students required to demonstrate competencies in relevant contexts.

HSC1202

Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Physiology

Provides students with a basic knowledge of anatomical structures and their function in the human body. Content focuses on function and integration of the neuro-musculoskeletal system relevant to human movement.

HSC1105

Exercise Prescription

Introduces students to the principles of exercise prescription, including risks associated with exercise, pre-screening and assessment procedures, and development of individually tailored exercise programs for the apparently healthy population.

HSC1209

Growth and Development

Examines the structural, physiological, motor and psychosocial domains of human growth and development across the lifespan, including chronological and biological age and their implications for physical activity.

HSC1104

Skill Acquisition

Provides students with theoretical background and practical experiences to understand how the acquisition of motor skills affects performance, including motor learning principles and factors affecting skill development.

HSC1208

Nutrition as Medicine

Develops students' understanding of food, nutrition and health, including food sources of nutrients, food and nutrient recommendations, macronutrients and key micronutrients in energy balance, and diet-related disease.

HSC1206

Physiology of Human Movement

Provides students with detailed knowledge of physiology as a foundation for exploring human movement, covering physiology from cellular to systems level and physiological responses during exercise.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this Diploma as a pathway into a bachelor's degree at ACPE?

Yes. Students who successfully complete the Diploma of Sport and Exercise Science are eligible to articulate into the Bachelor of Health Science (Exercise) with 8 units of credit in Semester 1 and 2, or into the Bachelor of Physical Activity for Health with 6 units of credit.

Is FEE-HELP available for this course?

Yes, the Diploma of Sport and Exercise Science is FEE-HELP approved. Payment Plans and Upfront payment options are also available. Tuition payment arrangements must be confirmed upon admission to the college.

How is the course delivered — do I need to attend campus in person?

The units are primarily delivered on campus at Sydney Olympic Park, with selected units also available online. Students should expect a blended learning experience combining on-campus attendance with some online components.

What subjects will I study during the Diploma?

The course covers eight units across two semesters: Semester 1 includes Understanding Health, Foundations of Sport and Exercise Science, Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Physiology, and Exercise Prescription. Semester 2 covers Growth and Development, Skill Acquisition, Nutrition as Medicine, and Physiology of Human Movement.

Is this course available for international students?

Yes, the course has a CRICOS provider code (113886F) and CRS code (CRS1401494), indicating it is available to international students. International applicants must be 18 years of age or older and meet the minimum English language requirements for the course.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $55,000 to $72,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $72,000 to $90,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $90,000 to $115,000 per year

Career Paths

Exercise ScientistAccredited Exercise Physiologist (with postgraduate qualifications)Strength and Conditioning CoachSports ScientistPerformance Analyst

Key Skills

Human anatomy and musculoskeletal assessmentExercise physiology and cardiovascular testing (e.g. VO2max, lactate threshold)Biomechanical movement analysis and gait assessmentEvidence-based exercise prescription for diverse populationsSports psychology and behaviour change strategies

Full Course Overview

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