Back to Find Courses page

Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology

Masters by Coursework

Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Course abbreviation

    MCEP

  • Course code

    1207247

  • Credit points

    144

  • Equivalent units

    12

  • Indicative Fee

    Commonwealth supported

Overview

We all understand the benefits of better health and wellbeing. In enhancing your qualifications and increasing your understanding of how our bodies work, this program takes your career prospects to a higher and even healthier level.

The Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology is a professional-entry-level degree that produces graduates who are eligible to register as an accredited exercise physiologist (AEP). You'll explore health and exercise from cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, metabolic, neuromuscular and even psychological perspectives.

At Southern Cross University's Health Clinic, you'll receive theoretical grounding towards being able to prescribe rehabilitation exercise for people with injury, disability or chronic disease.

Accredited exercise physiologists can provide exercise testing, preventative exercise programs and specialist rehabilitation exercise interventions for people living with chronic diseases, disability or injury with career options existing in private practice, hospitals, aged care facilities and rehabilitation centres. 

Course Learning Outcome

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

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

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

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

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

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

Demonstrate professional behaviours

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. A proportion of these clinical placement hours occurs in the on-campus Southern Cross University Health Clinics at Lismore and the Gold Coast, 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
Gold Coast Session 1, Session 2 N/A N/A
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).

Please note: In order to apply to be an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, ESSA’s requirements for English language must be met.

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 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
  • at least 140 hours of practicum experience in an “Apparently Healthy” population in accordance with the ESSA requirements for Accreditation as an Exercise Physiologist; and
  • a current Senior First Aid Certificate and CPR update (as required); and
  • the full range of immunizations required prior to working in a NSW and Queensland Public Health Facility; and
  • a Criminal Record Check (CRC).

Course requirements

To be eligible to receive the Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology, students must complete 144 credit points, comprising all core units.

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:

Double-weighted unit

Unit Code Unit Title Level of learning Notes
Core Units
MNG00306 Small Business and Entrepreneurship for Allied Health, Fitness and Sport Introductory
PSY81001 Advanced Sport and Exercise Psychology Introductory
HMV81001 Exercise Physiology for Specific Populations Introductory
HLT81001 Metabolic Health Introductory
CEP92002 Cardiovascular Health Intermediate
CEP91001 Clinical Exercise Physiology for Chronic Conditions Introductory
CEP92003 Advanced Professional Practice I Intermediate Note 1
CEP92001 Musculoskeletal Health Intermediate
CEP93001 Clinical Exercise Physiology for Neurological Conditions Advanced
CEP93002 Advanced Professional Practice II Advanced Note 1