Postgraduate Research Guide

The School of Health Sciences offers research programs that focus on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. The aim is to graduate professionals who can make a significant contribution to the progress of health sciences knowledge and practice. Acquiring in-depth knowledge and research skills in the exercise sciences equips graduates with the critical skills to improve their clients’ health and wellbeing through exercise or rehabilitation. The philosophical approach of the research programs at Notre Dame includes a strong commitment to developing best practice in promoting healthy lifestyles through physical activity across the lifespan. It also explores the importance of early intervention in avoiding costly medical treatment and rehabilitating those with chronic conditions and musculoskeletal injuries. In undertaking a research degree through Notre Dame’s School of Health Sciences, you will be part of a School that has close links to the University’s Institute for Health Research which fosters partnerships in research and innovation to improve community health and wellbeing. HIGHER DEGREES BY RESEARCH: › Master of Health Sciences › Master of Philosophy › Doctor of Health Science › Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) RESEARCH FOCUS Research within the School of Health Sciences focuses on the following: › adolescent motor coordination program ‘AMP It Up’; › building healthy children and youth of all abilities through exercise; › exercise rehabilitation science, particularly in breast and prostate cancer survivors; › Instagram and wellbeing of young female university students; › healthy ageing; and › musculoskeletal and clinical biomechanics. Researchers have identified physical inactivity as a critical risk factor contributing to ill health in Australia and confirmed that exercise and lifestyle behaviour modification play an important role in preventing, rehabilitating and managing both chronic diseases and injuries. Postgraduate degrees by coursework are offered in Clinical Exercise Physiology and Exercise Science. Please see the Postgraduate Coursework Guide for details. RESEARCH THAT MATTERS Research outcomes that have a real and lasting benefits to the community are key to all programs at Notre Dame. “The aspect I like most is our strong ethos in terms of community engagement,” said Associate Professor, Fleur McIntyre, Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences. “Our Adolescent Movement Program (AMPitup) is a perfect example. It’s designed specifically as a free training program for adolescents suffering the debilitating effects of Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). “Participants engage in regular exercise sessions, working with our students, on a cardio exercise, strength and resistance program. “The aim is to provide them with the skills, fitness and confidence to exercise in their local gym. “It’s very rewarding to hear parents talk about the confidence their kids have gained, to be able to do things or actually try new things. That’s the community and personal angle that is the most important out of everything.” 30 Notre Dame Research Guide