Undergraduate Certificate in Exercise & Sport Science

School of Health Sciences

Discover how exercise and physical activity can improve health, performance and overall wellbeing. This program introduces prospective students to key concepts in exercise science, including health assessment, basic exercise delivery, and the positive effects of physical activity on human physiology. Designed as a pathway to further study in exercise and sport science at the University of Notre Dame Australia, the program also helps students build the academic and tertiary skills needed for future university success. Students who successfully complete the certificate and gain entry into the Bachelor of Exercise & Sport Science (3161) may receive advanced standing for four courses – HLTH1150 Academic Research and Writing in Health Sciences, HLTH1000 Human Structure and Function, HLTH1001 Physical Activity and Health, and HLTH1007 Human Growth and Development – providing a streamlined pathway into the second semester of the first year of the bachelor's degree.

• Why study this degree?

  The Undergraduate Certificate Exercise & Sport Science program introduces students to key areas of exercise science, including human physiology, physical activity, and health promotion across the lifespan. Students explore human structure and function, learning how body systems respond and adapt to exercise, movement, and performance, alongside principles of fitness assessment and training for healthy populations.

  The program builds essential academic and research skills for evidence-based practice, including how to locate and evaluate scientific information, interpret data, and communicate findings effectively. Students also develop an understanding of ethical practice, including responsible use of digital and AI tools in exercise science contexts.

  With a focus on improving health and wellbeing in Australian communities, the program explores physical activity and health promotion strategies across diverse populations. It is designed as a pathway to further study at the University of Notre Dame Australia, supporting students to develop confidence and skills needed for future study and careers in exercise and sport science and related health fields.

• Program summary

  Improving health and well-being through exercise and physical activity is increasingly important in today’s sedentary world. This program aims to introduce students to methods used in exercise science to assess health status, provide basic exercise delivery, and understand the beneficial effects on human physiology. It is a pathway to university study in the field of exercise and sports science at the University of Notre Dame, Australia and develops the necessary tertiary skills to succeed.

  HLTH1012  Research and Academic Writing in Exercise Science
  HLTH1013  Human Structure and Functional Anatomy in Exercise
  HLTH1014  Human Growth and Exercise Performance
  HLTH1020  Exercise, Physical Activity and Health

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions pages Fremantle Sydney.

  Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Entry requirements

  The minimum entry requirements of the University of Notre Dame Australia apply for the Undergraduate Certificate (Exercise & Sport Science).

  While minimum entry requirements need to be met, we also consider a student’s application more broadly – their non-academic achievements (professional work experience, leadership roles, volunteering, community and/or church involvement), as well as their personal qualities, aspirations, interests and capacity to successfully complete this program.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Undergraduate Certificate (Exercise & Sport Science) graduates will be able to:

  1. Interpret and apply knowledge across the sub disciplines of exercise and sport science.
  2. Assess health behaviours and conditions, human movement, and skills to evaluate and prescribe exercise programs in healthy populations across a range of exercise settings.
  3. Apply research skills for evidence-based practice that enhances professional knowledge, including the ability to compile, critically evaluate and communicate the scientific rationale for professional decision making and service delivery.
  4. Exemplify professional and ethical standards in practical, interpersonal, and theoretical contexts and conduct that is sensitive to client diversity and equity.

• Career opportunities

  The Undergraduate Certificate in Exercise & Sport Science is a pathway to further study of higher awards, such as a Bachelor of Exercise & Sport Science degree.

• Opportunities and experiences

  At the University of Notre Dame, we believe that gaining a global perspective is an important part of your university education.

  Students can immerse themselves in other cultures with Study abroad, through our international exchange programs, study tours, and professional placements. These experiences provide valuable academic and personal growth while earning credit toward your degree.

  You can also engage with the world through Global experiences, volunteer opportunities and cross-cultural initiatives designed to develop your global citizenship and broaden your understanding of international communities.

  Visit Opportunities and experiences to find out more.

• Scholarships

  Scholarships provide financial support to students while they are completing their studies. There are various scholarships available to prospective and current students, across all study levels and campuses.

  These can be funded by Notre Dame, industry, individuals and non-profit organisations, to provide financial assistance to students to support costs associated with study. This could include buying food, paying rent, transport, and household bills, raising children as single parents, being a single-income household, becoming unemployed or caring for a sick loved one.

  Please visit the Scholarships Finder to see which scholarships are available to Undergraduate students.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
  A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.

  In a Commonwealth Supported Place, your fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your fees will be split into two portions:

  The Commonwealth contribution, which is the portion paid by the Australian Government.

  The student contribution, which is the portion you pay. You may choose to pay upfront or defer your student contribution with a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

  Eligible students will be offered a CSP – you do not need to apply.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?
  Our advisers provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

  Fremantle and Broome
  Email: future@nd.edu.au
  Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

  Sydney and Melbourne
  Email: sydney@nd.edu.au
  Address: 128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008