Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Deakin University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science / Bachelor of Nutrition Science at Deakin University is a combined degree that brings together two closely connected fields: human movement and nutrition. It is designed for students who are interested in sport performance, fitness, health improvement, and understanding how exercise and diet work together to support the human body.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students focus on building strong foundations in anatomy, physiology, and basic nutrition principles. Units such as Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology (HBS109), Human Growth, Development and Ageing for Exercise Scientists (HSE113), and Foundations of Food, Nutrition and Health (HSN101) help students understand how the body functions and how nutrition supports overall health.

Year 2:
In year two, students begin applying scientific knowledge to exercise and nutrition contexts. Units like Exercise Physiology (HSE201), Motor Learning and Development (HSE204), Biochemistry, and Food Fundamentals (HSN106) help students explore how movement, metabolism, and nutrition interact in both health and performance settings.

Year 3:
The third year deepens applied understanding, focusing on performance, health, and wellbeing. Students study Exercise Programming (HSE302), Biomechanics (HSE202), Nutritional Physiology (HSN211), and Healthy and Sustainable Food Systems (HSN105), developing skills to connect exercise science with nutritional strategies.

Year 4:
In the final year, students move into advanced, professional-level study and practical experience. Units such as Exercise and Sports Science Practicum (HSE312), Diet and Disease (HSN301), Clinical and Sport Biomechanics (HSE323), and Population Nutrition (HSN302) prepare students for real-world practice in sport, health, and nutrition settings.

Focus areas:

Exercise physiology, nutrition science, biomechanics, sports performance, health promotion, disease prevention, food systems, and integrated exercise–nutrition approaches.

Learning outcomes:

Graduates gain the ability to understand and apply exercise and nutrition science together, design evidence-based health and performance programs, and work effectively across sport, clinical, and community health environments.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

This double degree supports pathways toward accreditation with Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and membership with nutrition professional bodies, with further study options leading to careers in exercise physiology, sports science, and dietetics.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Deakin University is ranked as the top university in Victoria for graduate employment and is well regarded internationally for its strength in sport science and health-related disciplines, with strong industry connections supporting graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Deakin University, the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This dual degree not only equips you with essential skills in exercise science and nutrition but also immerses you in hands-on learning opportunities that prepare you for a successful career in health and fitness. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on experiential learning, you’ll have the chance to apply what you learn in real-world settings.

Here’s how you can expect to gain practical skills throughout your studies:

- Access to Cutting-Edge Facilities: Deakin boasts modern laboratories equipped for exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition analysis, allowing you to conduct experiments and research in a professional environment.
- Practical Experience: Engage in group projects and case studies that simulate real-life scenarios, enhancing your teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internship Opportunities: The program includes placements in various health and fitness settings, giving you invaluable experience and networking opportunities in the industry.
- Digital Tools and Software: You will learn to use industry-standard software for data analysis and nutrition planning, such as SPSS and dietary assessment tools, which are essential for your future career.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to sports facilities, health organizations, and community programs, providing insights into the practical applications of your studies.
- Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining experience in conducting studies and contributing to the field of exercise and nutrition science.
- Access to Libraries and Resources: Utilize Deakin’s extensive library resources, including access to academic journals, databases, and specialized collections related to health and nutrition.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you graduate not only with theoretical knowledge but also with the practical skills and experience that employers are looking for.

This program is a fantastic choice for anyone passionate about health, fitness, and nutrition, and I encourage you to apply and take the first step towards an exciting career!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science / Bachelor of Nutrition Science at Deakin University are well prepared for careers that combine sport performance, health, and nutrition. With strong knowledge across both disciplines, graduates can work in roles such as exercise scientist, sports performance consultant, nutrition advisor, health promotion officer, and strength and conditioning assistant. This combined skill set is highly valued in elite sport, fitness, community health, and workplace wellbeing settings.

With Deakin’s strong industry focus and career support:

University services that help employability: DeakinTALENT offers personalised career coaching, résumé and LinkedIn support, mock interviews, job search guidance, and access to internships and networking opportunities across sport, health, and nutrition sectors.
Employment outcomes and salary figures: Careers in exercise and nutrition science continue to grow in Australia due to increasing focus on preventive health and performance optimisation. Entry-level salaries typically range from AUD 60,000–75,000, with higher earning potential in specialised clinical, sport performance, or industry roles as experience increases.
University–industry partnerships: Students gain practical exposure through Deakin’s connections with sporting organisations, health services, fitness centres, rehabilitation clinics, and research institutes such as the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition and the Food and Mood Centre.
Long-term accreditation value: This double degree supports accreditation pathways with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) as an Exercise Scientist, along with nutrition-related professional membership pathways, strengthening long-term career recognition.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates develop strong expertise in exercise prescription, nutrition science, biomechanics, and behaviour change, allowing them to work across sport, rehabilitation, public health, and fitness industries.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue into postgraduate study such as the Master of Dietetics, Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology, Master of Applied Sport Science, Master of Public Health, or research degrees like Master of Philosophy or PhD in related health, sport, and nutrition fields.