Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, Bachelor of Nutrition and Food Sciences

This four-year double degree at Adelaide University brings together exercise and sport science with nutrition and food sciences. You'll study how the human body responds to exercise, how food affects health and performance, and how the two fields overlap in practice. The first years build a base in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and human nutrition. Later years move into exercise prescription, sports nutrition, food chemistry, and public health nutrition. You'll learn to assess fitness, design training and eating plans, and understand food from production to plate.

How the degree is structured

Australian bachelor degrees are normally three years full-time, but double degrees like this one take four because you complete the core units of both programs. The academic year runs across two semesters, with a mid-year break. Each unit carries a credit point value, and you need to pass a set number of units to graduate. The exact unit list and credit points are on the official course page. In the final year, you'll usually complete a capstone project or research thesis that pulls your learning together. Many students also do work-integrated learning through placements in sports clubs, community health organisations, or food companies, depending on the stream.

What you'll actually study

Expect subjects like exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, nutrition science, food microbiology, and diet and disease. You'll spend time in labs measuring things like oxygen uptake, muscle function, and food composition. You'll also learn how to talk to people about behaviour change, because both exercise and nutrition work depends on real-world coaching and counselling. The double degree means you graduate with two qualifications, so you can work in either field or in roles that combine them, such as sports dietetics or community health promotion.

Who this suits

This degree suits someone who wants to work with people, food, and movement. Maybe you've played sport and want to understand the science behind performance. Or you're interested in public health and want to help communities eat better and move more. The course is also a pathway to further study in dietetics, physiotherapy, or research. English requirements for international applicants are IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall for undergraduate entry, with higher scores for some other fields. The Student visa has its own English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register, and you should confirm all details on the official Adelaide University page.

• Exercise scientist or sports scientist in professional sports teams, community sport, or fitness centres
• Nutrition assistant or food technologist in food manufacturing, product development, or quality assurance
• Health promotion officer in local government, non-profits, or community health organisations
• Wellness coordinator in corporate health, aged care, or disability services
• Further study to become an accredited dietitian, physiotherapist, or researcher