Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program integrates exercise science and foundational business disciplines. In the exercise science stream you study human anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport and exercise nutrition, assessment and prescription, motor control, and research methods. Practical laboratory classes, fitness testing, and supervised practical placements develop applied skills in exercise assessment, program design and client communication.

The business administration component covers accounting principles, marketing, organisational behaviour, management and leadership, economics, business law and ethics, finance fundamentals and entrepreneurship. Core subjects emphasise strategic thinking, operations and applied business communication, preparing you to manage programs, teams or enterprises in health and sport settings.

The degree typically includes work-integrated learning such as industry placements, internships or capstone projects that combine exercise science practice with business planning — for example running a community health program, developing a commercial fitness offering, or conducting applied research for a sports organisation.

Entry requirements

Entry generally requires successful completion of senior secondary qualifications or an equivalent recognised qualification. Applicants are expected to have competent English communication skills; background studies in biology, physical education or mathematics are advantageous but not always mandatory. ACU assesses applications holistically, taking into account academic results, personal statements, and any relevant work or volunteer experience.

Domestic applicants should consult ACU for details of guaranteed entry pathways and alternative admission schemes. International applicants need to demonstrate equivalent school completion and meet English language requirements through approved tests or prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for a range of roles across health, sport and business. Exercise science graduates can work as exercise professionals in community health, fitness centres, sport performance teams, and corporate wellness programs. With further accredited study and supervised practice, graduates may progress towards clinical exercise physiology or allied health registrations where available.

The business administration component enables careers in management, marketing, operations, human resources and small-business ownership. Typical roles include strength and conditioning coach, wellness coordinator, program manager for community health initiatives, sport administrator, fitness centre manager, business development officer or entrepreneur in the health and fitness sector.

The dual qualification is also a strong foundation for postgraduate study in areas such as clinical exercise physiology, public health, business leadership, sport science or physiotherapy (where prerequisites are met).

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers this combined degree with a focus on applied, work-integrated learning and strong industry links to sports organisations, clinics and community health providers. Students benefit from practical laboratory facilities, simulation suites and opportunities for supervised placements that build employable skills.

ACU campuses provide a supportive learning environment with smaller class sizes, personalised academic support and career services. The university’s emphasis on ethical practice and community engagement complements training for roles that combine health promotion with business leadership.

Graduates leave with both practical exercise science capabilities and business acumen, enabling flexible career pathways across the commercial, community and clinical sectors of health and sport.