Overview
Follow your passion for sport into the health and fitness or sport-management fields. Our double degree opens many exciting career options.
VU is a leader in sport education. In our Sport Science (Human Movement) and Sport Management degree, you’ll develop high-level expertise in human movement, exercise supervision, physical recreation programming, and sport management.
We have over 200 partnerships with sport venues, sporting clubs, local government authorities, and public-health and education groups. Through these partnerships, you’ll learn from the best, and gain invaluable work experience.
You’ll graduate job-ready to work in many areas of sport and fitness. You’ll have the skills and knowledge to manage major sporting events, sporting facilities, aquatic and recreation centres, professional sport organisations, and gyms.
Careers options include:
- exercise and sport science
- rehabilitation
- community fitness and health
- personal training
- community sport development
- planning for sport and active recreation
- consulting and research in sport participation.
World #9 for sport science
Victoria University has been ranked number 9 in the world for sport science.
Our ground-breaking research, world-class facilities and partnerships with some of the world’s top sporting clubs have rocketed us to this position.
Studying with us means you benefit from all of the opportunities that come with our elite status – learning from academics who are connected with top organisations, researching with national sporting bodies and accessing our cutting-edge sport-science equipment.
High-tech sport & exercise facilities
The College of Sport, Health and Engineering has a $68 million high-technology teaching and research facility at Footscray Park.
Our 29 new labs are fitted with the latest technology and equipment. They are used by professional sports team and community organisations. Facilities include biomechanics, biochemistry, and exercise physiology labs, and our Altitude Hotel.
Learn from expert staff, including researchers in the Institute for Health and Sport (IHES). Our research in sports science achieved ‘well above world standard’ in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) assessment.
Sports career development & placements
We offer placement programs during your degree which give you invaluable work experience and industry contacts.
You’ll complete a compulsory 70-hour placement in second year and/or a 140-hour placement in the final year of your degree.
Placements are hosted by 350 different organisations in the following fields:
- sport and exercise science
- sport management
- sport coaching
- recreation
- outdoor education.
Our Career Development & Employability program is designed to help you choose your career direction, and to teach you to market yourself.
Sporting-community partnerships
We have over 200 partnerships and affiliations with peak sporting bodies, professional and community sporting clubs, and public-health and education groups.
Partner organisations offer work placements and contacts within the industry.
They include these top sporting institutions:
- AFL
- Melbourne Storm
- Melbourne Rebels
- Hockey Victoria
- Cricket Victoria
- Western Bulldogs Football Club
- Coburg Football Club
- Western Jets Football Club
- Greyhound Racing Victoria
- Football Federation Victoria
- Richmond Football Club
- Victorian Institute of Sport.
Sport & Recreation Industry Pathway (SARIP) program
Our Sport and Recreation Industry Pathway (SARIP) program supports secondary-school students to achieve their aspirations in sport. It is available to all secondary-school students and their teachers.
The SARIP program offers a sport-based curriculum supporting students’ study in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). If you’re a student with a passion for sport, it gives you invaluable experience and industry links. You’ll be offered a pathway to additional qualifications, tertiary study and workplace opportunities.
As part of the SARIP program, students come to VU to participate in physiology and biomechanics testing and other exciting projects.
Study overseas while earning course credits
At VU you can spend part of your degree studying overseas all while gaining credits towards your course.
Immerse yourself in a new culture and learn from a new perspective, while building experiences that will help you to stand out in the competitive job market.
Need some advice?
Request a call back from one of our experienced VUHQ course advisers to get your questions answered.
Request a call back
Make use of our high-tech facilities, including biomechanics, biochemistry, and exercise physiology labs, and our Altitude Hotel.
Careers in sport science & management
On graduation, you’ll be ready to work as a manager, administrator, sport scientist, and exercise/physical activity programmer in the following areas:
- professional sport
- physical recreation associations and clubs
- state and national sporting bodies
- community sport clubs and agencies
- gyms and fitness centres
- stadiums and facilities
- community service organisations
- outdoor recreation facilities
- corporate health programs
- government sport and recreation services
- commercial sport
Salaries
- Find salaries for sports coaches, instructors and officials at Labour Market Insights.
- Find salaries for sports administrators at Labour Market Insights.
Course structure
To attain the Bachelor of Sport Science (Human Movement)/Bachelor of Sport Management, students will be required to complete 384 credit points consisting of:
- 96 credit points First Year Core units
- 48 credit points Core units
- 96 credit points Sport Science (Human Movement) Professional Core units
- 96 credit points Major studies from the approved list
- 48 credit points Minor studies from the approved list
Students who commenced in 2014, 2015 and 2016, must successfully complete any combination of 4 units from the following eight Sport Management College Core units:
- SSM1101 Introduction to Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1102 Foundations of Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1103 Management Principles for Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1104 Community Building for Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1201 Marketing for Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1202 Financial Management for Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1203 Human Resources for Sport and Active Recreation
- SSM1204 Ethics and Integrity Management in Sport and Active Recreation
Course structure and units
First Year Core Units
-
- Unit code
- SCL1003
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM1102
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BMO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- RBM1174
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SCL1002
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE1202
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- BHO1000
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM1202
- Credits
- 12
Core Units
-
- Unit code
- AHE1101
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE1112
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM1104
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SOL1000
- Credits
- 12
Sport Science (Human Movement) Professional Core Units
-
- Unit code
- AHE2005
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE2127
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE3111
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE3116
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- AHE3200
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2103
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM2002
- Credits
- 12
-
- Unit code
- SSM3003
- Credits
- 12
Majors
-
- Unit code
- SMASAC
-
- Unit code
- SMAOUT
Minors
-
- Unit code
- SMIHEA
-
- Unit code
- SMISSC
-
- Unit code
- SMIFIT
-
- Unit code
- SMIOUT
-
- Unit code
- SMISAC
-
- Unit code
- HMIHNU
-
- Unit code
- SMIGAM
-
- Unit code
- SMISCO
-
- Unit code
- AMITEM
-
- Unit code
- SMIADS
Achieve more with the VU Block Model
We are the first Australian university to use a 'block' model of learning, where you study one unit at a time rather than juggling several at once.
Introduced in 2018, the VU Block Model has improved our student results and achievements, and has won awards for innovation and excellence. Initially for first-year students, it now applies to all students studying at our Melbourne campuses.
You'll study in short bursts, called blocks, of three 2-3 hour face-to-face teaching sessions per week.
Each block focuses on one unit (subject) and is only four weeks long, with up to four days between. Our two semesters have four blocks each, and there are optional blocks over winter and summer where you can catch up on a missed unit.
Some courses have labs and pracs too, and these are generally scheduled on the same days as teaching sessions. There are also workshops where you'll develop your study skills and prepare for your future career.
Find out more about the VU Block Model.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
| 1. | Integrate conceptual understandings of strategic planning, operational management, fitness assessments, training and conditioning needs, program design, service delivery, performance evaluation, and relevant business and exercise science principles, with advanced specialist knowledge within the discipline of sport, exercise, and active recreation; | ||
| 2. | Critically analyse theoretical and technical knowledge in diverse contexts, and adapt and apply related skills to the effective management of sport and active recreation services and the professional delivery of exercise, fitness and conditioning programs; | ||
| 3. | Critically review and apply information with initiative and judgement in order to both anticipate and creatively solve problems related to the management and delivery of sport, exercise, and active recreation services in contemporary settings; | ||
| 4. | Exhibit professional judgement, ethical standards, and social sensitivity by adapting knowledge and managerial skills to make decisions, either individually or collaboratively, that provide inclusive, sustainable, and culturally relevant sport, exercise, and active recreation experiences; | ||
| 5. | Communicate a coherent and independent exposition of industry knowledge and operational skills in both oral and written form to a range of audiences; | ||
| 6. | Reflect on personal learning and skills in relation to career goals with a view to implementing creative strategies to promote lifelong learning, and establishing pathways for the attainment of further professional development and educational training; | ||
| 7. | Apply personal and interpersonal competencies, work-group skills, and leadership abilities to the effective management of sport and active recreation enterprises, and the professional delivery of exercise, fitness and conditioning programs. This will be done while also accommodating the divergent and complex cultures of Australia and other regions around the world; and | ||
| 8. | Contribute to the organisation and delivery of sport, exercise, and active recreation programs with personal accountability, integrity, and social responsibility for outcomes, and do it through dynamic 21st Century work-teams that use resources efficiently, provide high levels of participant satisfaction, and deliver widespread social utility. |
What's a unit?
A unit or 'subject' is the actual class you'll attend in the process of completing a course.
Most courses have a mixture of compulsory 'core' units that you need to take and optional elective units that you can choose to take based on your area of interest, expertise or experience.
Credits
Each unit is worth a set amount of study credits based on the amount of time you study. Generally, 1 credit is equal to 1 hour of study per week.
Fees & scholarships
Fee type for this course: Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee type definitions
The amount you pay for your course depends on whether you’re offered a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or a full fee-paying place.
Students who enrol in a:
- Commonwealth supported place pay tuition fees that are partly subsidised by the Australian government
- full fee-paying place need to pay the full amount for all enrolled units before census each study period.
In addition to your tuition fees, you may also be charged a Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Scholarships & assistance
Apply for a scholarship to help with your study costs.
We can help with fee assistance and advice.
Admissions
Victoria University is committed to providing a transparent admissions process. Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.
Applicants for this course will need to have met the academic requirements and prerequisites for this course outlined below.
Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered.
Admission criteria
The minimum criteria for admission varies depending on your education background. If you’re not sure which criteria applies to you, use the help tool on this page or make an enquiry and we can assist.
Applicants with recent secondary education (within the last 2 years)
- Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (e.g. VCE) or
- an Australian or overseas equivalent or
- an International Baccalaureate (IB).
Importance of ATAR for this course
We consider both ATAR and other criteria
ATAR is not a consideration. We use other criteria
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent) including Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.
Why is ATAR not applicable?
You will not need an ATAR score to meet the admission requirements for this course. Only the successful completion of your secondary school studies, and any additional prerequisites. Our courses and support programs are designed to prepare students from diverse cultures for success, regardless of their prior experience, ATAR, age, socioeconomic or educational background.
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET/TAFE) study
This information is for people who have completed an accredited award at an Australian Registered Training Organisation.
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Advanced Diploma or Diploma (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (or equivalent).
Applicants with higher education study
This information is for people whose highest level of study since leaving secondary education is a higher education course.
Admission criteria
Full or partial completion of an Australian Higher Education award (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of a single unit of Higher Education studies.
OR:
Completion of a bridging or enabling course eg. Foundation course or equivalent.
Applicants with work & life experience
This information is for applicants who left secondary school more than two years ago and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since then.
Admission criteria
Five years (minimum) work/life experience in Health or Human Sciences, Training & Development, Community Sports or similar.
OR:
Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate more than two years ago.
PLUS:
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English (or equivalent).
Additional information
Students will require a Working with Children Check and National Police Check to be eligible to undertake and participate in workplace visits, placements or projects. Use the following site links to obtain additional information:
http://www.workingwithchildren.vic.gov.au/
http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=274.
Pathways & credits
There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.
Pathways from VU courses
If you have completed any of the following course(s), you will be guaranteed a place in this course. In some cases you may receive credit for your previous study, reducing the time it takes to complete your course.
You will be guaranteed entry only.
Find out more about pathways and credits.
Pathways from other institutions
If you have completed any of the following course(s), you will be guaranteed a place in this course. In some cases you may receive credit for your previous study, reducing the time it takes to complete your course.
SEDA Group, Australia
You will be credited for up to 96 credit points of study.
Find out more about pathways and credits.
Credit for skills and past study
Use our credit calculator to find out how much credit you could get towards your course, based on your previous study.
If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.
Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course chair or academic adviser.
How to apply
Available start dates:
- 24 February 2025
- 28 July 2025
Before you apply
Before applying, you should consider whether you also want to apply for:
- Special admission programs: Depending on your life circumstances you may be eligible for special consideration of your application.
- Advanced standing: If you have significant experience or studies elsewhere you may be eligible for credit for some units of your course and not have to undertake them.
Find out more about applying for our courses.
Apply through VTAC
Apply through VTAC if any of the following apply to you:
- you are applying for more than one course
- you are completing Year 12 in 2023
- you have an existing VTAC application to study in 2024
VTAC very late applications are due 14 January 2025.
Apply via VTACSpecial Entry Access Scheme
You can apply for consideration of your life circumstances during the application process by submitting a VTAC Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) application.
Apply direct to VU
Apply directly to VU if any of the following apply to you:
- you are a current VU student
- you are only applying for this course and are not completing Year 12 in 2023
Direct applications are due on 16 February 2025 for our next intake which starts on 24 February 2025.
Already a VU student?
If you are already a VU student, apply direct to VU using our Admissions centre to transfer into this course. Remember it’s best to be accepted into your new course before withdrawing from your current one.
After you apply
- It’s important to check for emails from us (which may go to your spam/junk folder).
- Complete any requests for information by the given dates, otherwise your application may not be considered
Enquire now
Please fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you shortly.
Get help
- Visit a student service centre
- 1300 VIC UNI (1300 842 864)
- Request a call back
- Visit the glossary
At Victoria University, we aim to display accurate and complete course information online. However, we are unable to guarantee that every course change is currently displayed. You may contact the University directly on +61 3 9919 6100 to confirm the most up-to-date course fees, pathways and credit transfer, recognition of prior learning, admission and enrolment procedures, examinations and services available to our students.
