Course summary

The Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology is a professional-entry-level degree that aims to produce graduates who will be eligible to register as an accredited exercise physiologist (AEP). Accredited exercise physiologists can provide exercise testing, preventative exercise programs and specialist rehabilitation exercise interventions for people living with chronic diseases, disability or injury.

The course includes clinical placements at on-campus or off-campus locations, for students to gain practical experience in cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, metabolic, neuromuscular and immunological rehabilitation exercise.

Clinical exercise physiology is an allied health profession that is part of the Medicare and private health insurance systems.

The course provides an advanced understanding of the theoretical and practical components of clinical exercise physiology.

The course covers Exercise and Sport Science Australia target pathologies including cardiac disease, pulmonary conditions, cancer, metabolic diseases, renal disease, musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, neurological and immunological conditions and exercise for mental health. Graduates will be able to apply knowledge to specific population groups, including older people.

Graduate AttributeCourse Learning Outcome
Intellectual rigour

Demonstrate a level of critical analysis, problem solving and decision making appropriate for professional clinical exercise physiology practice

Exercise sound theoretical and practical judgement in dealing with the challenges and situations common to the work of a Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Creativity

Develop innovative and creative responses and solutions to health problems and chronic conditions encountered in clinical exercise physiology

Demonstrate flexibility in responding to exercise physiology challenges, developed using evidence-based practice

Ethical practice

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of ethical, legal and human right principles consistent with Clinical Exercise Physiology scope of practice and the ESSA Code of Ethics

Knowledge of a discipline

Demonstrate an understanding of the pathophysiological, physical, social, political and cultural influences on Clinical Exercise Physiology practice

Demonstrate competency to assess health and fitness status in population groups and develop management/treatment plans in consultation with clients and allied health professionals

Deliver safe, effective and evidence-based health care

Lifelong learning

Retrieve, critically evaluate and apply evidence in the performance of clinical exercise physiology and self-directed learning

Reflect on current skills, knowledge and attitudes and plan ongoing personal and professional development

Communication and social skills

Communicate concisely and appropriately in oral and written form in an academic, professional and allied health context

Demonstrate professional behaviours

Cultural competence

Demonstrate an understanding of social and cultural issues relating to the practice of clinical exercise physiology

Apply cultural and indigenous awareness and sensitivity in dealings with clients and stakeholders in Clinical Exercise Physiology

The course includes a minimum of 360 hours of clinical placement for students to put theory into practice. This occurs in the Southern Cross University Health Clinic on campus, seeing a wide range of clients with chronic conditions, as well as at external locations such as hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, sporting clubs, private practices and aged care facilities. Inter-professional development is also encouraged and exercise physiology students may gain experience working with other allied health students.

Professional experience placements require students to fulfil certain pre-requisites prior to attending any placements. Before applying for this course, it is important that you understand what these requirements are. 

Please note: External placements may continue after Session 3 if approved by the Course Coordinator.

The Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology is accredited by Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). Graduates will be eligible to apply for accreditation with ESSA as an accredited exercise physiologist (AEP).

Course overview

Course code

1207247

Course abbreviation

MClinExPhysiol

Credit points

144

Equivalent units

12

Domestic duration

1.5 years full-time; 3 years part-time

International duration

1.5 years full-time

Availability details

Domestic

Location Session UAC code QTAC code
Lismore 1 N/A N/A

Domestic fees

Commonwealth supported

International

Location Session Annual Fees CRICOS
Lismore 1 $26,800 ($3,350 per unit) 071787E

Course requirements

See the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, in conjunction with the Specific Award Rules listed below.

To be eligible for the award of Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology a candidate shall successfully complete the equivalent of twelve (12) units comprising:

  1. all units listed in the Schedule of Units attached to these Rules.

Exclusion

  1. A student can be excluded under Rule 2 Section 10.
  2. A candidate who has received a fail grade twice in Applied Clinical Exercise Physiology (1–3) may be excluded by the Head of School until they can demonstrate professional suitability to undertake the course.

Course progressions

Students should use course progression information to select units specific to their course and enrol in these units using My Enrolment

Notes

Note 1: Quadruple-weighted unit