Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology

The Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology at UNE is a multidisciplinary program that develops a comprehensive understanding of the scientific and applied aspects of sport, exercise and health.

The course includes core studies in human structure, function and behaviour before further study on the acute and chronic physiological and psychological responses to exercise in healthy individuals and those with chronic and complex health conditions.

In the first three years of study, analytical, technical and professional skills are developed in the areas of movement analysis, health and fitness assessment and exercise training for health and performance.

The final year of study provides advanced training in chronic disease management, functional conditioning and clinical practice.

Students complete 500 hours of workplace experience to practice exercise-based management of neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, metabolic and other health conditions.

Graduates are recognised for their expertise in the clinical application of exercise-based rehabilitation.

Course Aims

This course aims to provide a range of learning experiences to develop expertise in the clinical application of evidence based exercise interventions to manage a variety of complex and/or chronic health conditions. This is facilitated following the acquisition of core knowledge and skills across the sub- disciplines of Exercise and Sports Science as identified by Exercise and Sports Science Australia. This includes, but is not limited to, biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control/learning, exercise and sport psychology, human nutrition/development/health.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge of the sub-disciplines of exercise and sports science with an in-depth understanding of their clinical applications, including the creative endeavor involved in acquiring knowledge, and the contestable and testable nature of scientific knowledge; use scientific literacy to analyse and evaluate the relationships between exercise, athletic performance and health within a global context; communicate specialist advice on safe and effective participation in physical activity to improve health and/or performance, and prevent injury and/or disease; use knowledge of injury and disease etiology, pathophysiology/pathomechanics and common medical interventions to manage/rehabilitate individuals with chronic and/or complex medical conditions or injuries through physical activity interventions; and provide evidence based health care services in individual and team environments that adhere to Australian health care policy, safety guidelines and ethical frameworks.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Graduates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the principles of scientific thinking within the discipline of Exercise and Sports Science. They will also have specialised knowledge in the clinical application of exercise prescription to manage complex and chronic health conditions. Graduates will be able to articulate the role and clinical importance of physical activity in the local and wider community. Communication Skills Graduates will be able to communicate scientific results, health information, or arguments, to a range of audiences, and for a range of purposes. Problem Solving Graduates will be able to investigate and solve problems by using recognised principles of exercise and sports science. Also, by formulating hypotheses, collecting valid and reliable data, and incorporating quantitative evidence into arguments. Information Literacy Graduates will be able to synthesise and evaluate information from a range of sources, using a range of technologies. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Graduates will be able to demonstrate social responsibility by recognising the relevant ethical frameworks within Exercise Physiologists practise. Students will also show a capacity for working responsibly and safely in both individual and team environments. Lifelong Learning Graduates will be able to take personal responsibility for lifelong learning by demonstrating a capacity for self-directed, evidence based learning. Independence and Collaboration Graduates will have an awareness of the need to function effectively as members or leaders of scientific or multidisciplinary health teams. They will also be able to articulate the role and clinical importance of physical activity, as well as exercise and sports science, in the local and global community.