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Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology

Masters by Coursework

Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Start Date

    View in availability

  • Duration

    1.5 years full-time; 3 years part-time
    Students need to study in all three sessions to complete this course within the specified duration.

  • Location

    View in availability
    Students who start in Session 2 can only study part-time (due to unit availability). Sessions 1 and 3 the following year may be completed full time.

  • Placements

    NA

  • Course abbreviation

    MClinExPhysiol

  • Course code

    1207247

  • Credit points

    144

  • Equivalent units

    12

  • Indicative Fee

    Commonwealth supported

Overview

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.

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 SCU 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 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.

Location Teaching period UAC code QTAC code
Lismore Session 1, Session 2 N/A N/A

Career Outcomes

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).

Requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.

Entry requirements

Applicants seeking admission to the Masters of Clinical Exercise Physiology will normally:

  1. Have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Sport and Exercise Science (or related degree) that is accredited or would satisfy the current requirements for course accreditation with the ESSA at the level of Exercise Scientist and have a level of achievement acceptable to the School Board.
  2. In addition to satisfying condition 1 above, candidates are required to have:
    1. Completed at least 140 hours of practicum experience in an “Apparently Healthy” population in accordance with the ESSA requirements for Accreditation as an Exercise Physiologist;
    2. A current Senior First Aid Certificate and CPR update (as required);
    3. Completed the full range of immunizations required, prior to working in a NSW and Queensland Public Health Facility;
    4. A Criminal Record Check (CRC) completed on their behalf.

Course requirements

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 structure

Your course progression is in the recommended order you should complete your course in. It is important that you follow this to ensure you meet the course requirements. For further assistance see How to Enrol in Units using My Enrolment.

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


Note 1:

Quadruple-weighted unit

Unit Code Unit Title Level of learning Notes

Part A
CEP03361 Professional Practice in Clinical Exercise Physiology I Introductory
CEP03362 Exercise and Cardiopulmonary Health Introductory
CEP03363 Exercise and Musculoskeletal Health Introductory
CEP03365 Professional Practice in Clinical Exercise Physiology II Advanced
CEP03366 Exercise and Metabolic and Psychological Health Advanced
CEP03367 Exercise and Neurological, Neuromuscular and Immunological Health Intermediate
CEP03364 Applied Clinical Exercise Physiology I Introductory
CEP03368 Applied Clinical Exercise Physiology II Intermediate
CEP03369 Applied Clinical Exercise Physiology III Advanced Note 1