Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This combined degree blends core exercise science subjects with psychological science, giving you grounding in human movement, physiology and biomechanics alongside cognitive, developmental and clinical psychology. Typical study areas include anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control and exercise prescription, together with biological psychology, developmental and social psychology, cognitive psychology and research methods.

• Foundations: anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and principles of training.
• Psychological science: introduction to psychological theory, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology and lifespan approaches.
• Research and statistics: quantitative and qualitative research methods, experimental design and data analysis.
• Applied practice: practical laboratory classes, exercise testing and prescription, behaviour-change techniques and psychological assessment methods.
• Professional practice: supervised placements, workplace projects or community-based practicums to develop professional skills.

Units are usually sequenced to build practical skills progressively, with laboratory work and field placements integrated across the degree. Many students undertake a capstone or research project that combines exercise and psychological perspectives.

Entry requirements

Entry to the bachelor programme typically requires completion of secondary school (or equivalent) with a competitive admission score as set by the university, or successful completion of a recognised alternative pathway such as a vocational qualification or mature-age entry. Applicants are generally expected to have studied science, maths or related subjects at secondary level — subjects such as biology, chemistry or mathematics are recommended but not always compulsory.

Other accepted entry pathways include university foundation programs, recognised vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, and formal recognition of prior learning or work experience. International applicants must meet Southern Cross University’s English language and academic entry standards.

Career prospects

Graduates combine knowledge of human movement and psychological science to pursue roles across health, sport, community and corporate settings. Typical career paths include:

• Accredited exercise scientist roles and allied health support positions in community health, sport clubs and fitness services (subject to meeting industry accreditation requirements).
• Work in health promotion, wellbeing coordination, workplace health and rehabilitation programs.
• Support roles in mental health services, community services, disability and aged care.
• Entry-level roles in research, health education and program evaluation, or as a pathway to postgraduate study in exercise physiology, clinical psychology, counselling or public health.
• Careers in sports coaching, performance support, corporate wellness and human resources where understanding behaviour-change and physical performance is valued.

Many graduates choose to continue their studies to achieve professional registration or specialist accreditation (for example postgraduate professional training in psychology or accredited exercise physiology streams), depending on their chosen career.

Why study at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers a regional, practice-focused learning environment with access to practical teaching facilities, including exercise science laboratories and clinical-style teaching spaces. The university emphasises applied learning through hands-on labs, community placements and industry partnerships that help connect study to real-world practice.

Small class sizes and supportive campus communities across Southern Cross’s regional campuses give students close contact with academic staff and opportunities for personalised supervision during practical placements and research projects. The programme also benefits from the university’s links with local health services, sporting organisations and community providers, which can assist with work-integrated learning and career networking.