Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational science with practical, applied learning. Early years focus on core anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise prescription and research methods; later years allow specialisation, a major research or applied project, and workplace placements. Teaching mixes lectures, lab work, small-group tutorials and hands-on practicals in sport-performance and community settings.

• Core scientific subjects: human anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and learning.
• Health and behaviour: health promotion, exercise psychology, behaviour change and public health principles.
• Performance and practical skills: strength and conditioning principles, exercise testing and prescription, clinical and field-based assessment techniques.
• Research and analytics: introductory and advanced research methods, statistics for sport and health sciences, and a capstone research or applied project in the final year.
• Professional experience: supervised placements or internships with community organisations, sports clubs, gyms or health providers, and coursework on ethics, communication and professional practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants require completion of a recognised secondary school qualification for university entrance (for example New Zealand University Entrance via NCEA Level 3, or an equivalent international qualification). Admission is generally competitive and successful applicants typically have strong performance in science or health-related subjects.

• Recommended background: biology, physical education or chemistry and mathematics at senior secondary level to prepare for the scientific content.
• English language proficiency: applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to meet AUT's English-language requirements (e.g. an internationally recognised test or equivalent qualification).
• Non-standard entry: mature applicants or those with relevant work experience may be considered through AUT's alternative admission pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across sport, exercise and public health. Many go into applied positions; others move into further professional or research training.

• Exercise physiologist or exercise specialist in community health, rehabilitation or chronic disease management (subject to local registration or employer requirements).
• Strength and conditioning coach, performance analyst or support staff for sports teams and high-performance programmes.
• Health promotion officer or wellness coordinator in government, NGOs, corporate wellbeing or community organisations.
• Fitness industry roles such as programme design, personal training leadership and facility management.
• Research assistant roles and progression to postgraduate study (master’s and doctoral programmes) in exercise science, public health or allied health professions.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT emphasises applied, work-integrated learning supported by specialist facilities and industry connections. The university offers dedicated sport and exercise science laboratories, exercise testing equipment, biomechanics and strength-and-conditioning suites and opportunities for supervised placements with local sports organisations and health providers. Teaching staff include researchers and practitioners active in sport science and community health, which helps link theory to contemporary practice and graduate employability.