4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science at Australian Catholic University (ACU) is an exciting dual degree that prepares students for a dynamic career in health and fitness. This program is ideal for those passionate about promoting physical activity and healthy eating, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
Curriculum Structure:
In the first year, students will dive into foundational concepts with courses such as "Introduction to Exercise Science" and "Nutrition for Health and Wellbeing." These units provide a comprehensive overview of human anatomy, physiology, and the principles of nutrition, setting the stage for more advanced studies.
During the second year, the focus shifts to more specialized topics, including "Exercise Physiology" and "Food Science." Here, students will explore the physiological responses to exercise and the science behind food composition, enhancing their understanding of how nutrition and exercise interact to promote health.
In the third year, students will engage in practical applications through courses like "Sports Nutrition" and "Biomechanics." This year emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, preparing them for future professional roles.
In the final year, students will undertake advanced studies in "Exercise Prescription" and "Public Health Nutrition," culminating in a capstone project that showcases their expertise. This year is designed to refine their skills and prepare them for the workforce, ensuring they are ready to tackle the challenges in the fields of exercise and nutrition.
Focus Areas: Exercise physiology, nutrition science, public health, sports performance.
Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to assess and design exercise programs, understand nutritional principles, and promote health and wellness in various populations.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is aligned with industry standards and accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that graduates meet the requirements for employment in the health and fitness sectors.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): ACU consistently ranks highly in employability, with strong connections to industry and a focus on practical experience, making graduates highly sought after in the job market.
At Australian Catholic University (ACU), students pursuing the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science programs are immersed in a rich environment that emphasizes experiential learning. This hands-on approach not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips students with practical skills essential for their future careers. ACU boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support this learning journey, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce.
Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:
- Practical Skills Development: Engage in real-world scenarios through practical classes and workshops that simulate professional environments.
- Laboratories: Access specialized labs for exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition analysis, allowing for in-depth research and experimentation.
- Internships: Participate in industry placements that provide valuable experience and networking opportunities within the health and fitness sectors.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on projects that foster teamwork and problem-solving skills, mirroring the collaborative nature of the industry.
- Field Trips: Experience learning outside the classroom with excursions to sports facilities, health organizations, and community health programs.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software for data analysis and nutrition planning, enhancing your technical skills and employability.
- Research Institutes: Engage with ACU’s research institutes focused on health and exercise, providing opportunities to contribute to innovative projects.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources and online databases that support your studies and research initiatives.
These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you not only learn but also apply your knowledge in practical settings, making you a competitive candidate in the job market.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science/Bachelor of Nutrition Science at Australian Catholic University develop a strong understanding of human performance, health, nutrition, and exercise science. This combination of skills prepares you for rewarding careers in the health, fitness, sports, and wellbeing industries, with potential roles including exercise scientist, sports nutrition advisor, health promotion officer, strength and conditioning assistant, and wellbeing consultant.
• ACU’s Career Development Service supports students with career coaching, resume development, interview preparation, employability workshops, and networking opportunities to help them enter the workforce with confidence
• Students gain valuable practical experience through professional placements, Work Integrated Learning opportunities, and community engagement activities in health, fitness, and sports settings
• ACU reports that 95% of graduates are employed, highlighting strong graduate outcomes and employer confidence in ACU qualifications
• The exercise and sports science component is accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), allowing graduates to apply for accreditation as an Accredited Exercise Scientist, which is highly regarded across the industry
• The nutrition component meets the competencies required for registration as a nutritionist with the Nutrition Society of Australia, supporting professional recognition and career development in nutrition-related fields
• Students benefit from ACU’s connections with sporting organisations, health services, fitness providers, and community health partners through placement and industry engagement opportunities
• Graduates can pursue careers in sports performance centres, fitness organisations, community health programs, corporate wellness services, government health agencies, and private health businesses
• The combination of exercise science and nutrition expertise provides excellent career flexibility and positions graduates to contribute to improving health, performance, and wellbeing across a variety of settings
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this double degree, students can continue into postgraduate study such as a Master of Dietetics, Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology, Master of Public Health, or other specialised health and sports science programs. Graduates may also choose to undertake honours or research degrees, including a Master of Philosophy or PhD, opening pathways into advanced clinical practice, research, academia, and leadership roles within the health and sports sectors.



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