Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology

The Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology at Curtin University is designed for those who have an undergraduate background in exercise science and want to become accredited exercise physiologists. Over 1.5 years, students develop skills to assess, prescribe, and monitor exercise programs for people with chronic and complex conditions, including cardiopulmonary, metabolic, musculoskeletal, neurological and mental health disorders.

This master’s qualification follows the Australian standard structure for coursework degrees, built around core units and supervised clinical placement. Students complete advanced studies in clinical assessment, exercise prescription for specific populations, and evidence-based practice. Practical skills are developed through more than 500 hours of clinical placement embedded across different healthcare and community settings within Western Australia. A capstone research project is often part of the curriculum, allowing students to engage in applied research relevant to clinical exercise physiology.

By studying at Curtin in Perth, students benefit from partnerships with hospitals, rehabilitation centres, GP clinics, and community health organisations. The curriculum reflects current Australian health needs and professional standards. International students are encouraged to check the official Curtin website for up-to-date English language requirements and admission details.

This master’s course suits graduates wanting to register as exercise physiologists in Australia and those interested in managing real clinical caseloads. Skills developed include patient screening, clinical reasoning, delivering tailored exercise interventions, and supporting multidisciplinary care teams. The degree prepares you to meet Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) accreditation requirements.

Career outcomes

• Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)
• Clinical rehabilitation specialist
• Chronic disease management practitioner
• Health and wellness consultant (community and hospital roles)
• Work in private practice, hospitals, aged care, sports medicine and occupational health

Australian industries include allied health, primary health care, rehabilitation, and chronic disease management. Graduates may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study.