Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (CRICOS course code 060254C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 3 years. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to work in the sport and exercise industry, focusing on human movement, health, and performance. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00300K), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. Located at CDU's Casuarina Campus in Darwin, Northern Territory, this degree offers a unique opportunity to study in a tropical environment with a diverse student community. Graduates can pursue careers in exercise science, sports coaching, health promotion, or further study in physiotherapy or other allied health fields. At AQF Level 7, this bachelor degree provides a comprehensive foundation in human movement, anatomy, physiology, and exercise prescription. With no mandatory work component, the course focuses on theoretical and practical learning within the university setting. Charles Darwin University is a government institution known for its strong ties to industry and research in tropical health. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and access to student support services. The indicative total cost is A$98,160, including tuition and non-tuition fees, but excluding OSHC and living expenses. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is part of that rich educational landscape.
This course falls under the field of education code 069903 - Human Movement, within the broader Health field. Students explore the science behind human movement, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, and sport psychology. The curriculum is designed to develop analytical and research skills, enabling graduates to assess movement patterns, design evidence-based exercise programs, and promote health in diverse populations. At this level, students gain a deep understanding of how the body responds to exercise and training, preparing them for roles in sports science laboratories, fitness centres, community health organisations, or further postgraduate study. The program typically includes units in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and professional practice. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates are equipped with competencies aligned with industry standards. This degree is ideal for those passionate about health and physical activity, and who wish to make a difference in preventing chronic disease and enhancing athletic performance.
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science has a duration of 3 years (156 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Students are expected to study full-time to maintain their student visa conditions. While part-time enrollment may be possible in certain circumstances, international students generally need to enroll in a full-time load to satisfy visa requirements. The course is campus-based at the Casuarina Campus, with no distance or online delivery for international students. This structure allows for face-to-face interaction with lecturers and peers, practical laboratory sessions, and access to university facilities. The duration is standard for a bachelor degree in Australia, providing sufficient time to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
The indicative total cost for the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at Charles Darwin University is A$98,160, broken down into tuition fees of A$97,056 and non-tuition fees of A$1,104. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. The following costs are not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders; living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport; and the visa application charge for the Student visa (Subclass 500). International students should budget for these additional costs. For the most current fee information, always refer to Charles Darwin University’s official website. Compared to other bachelor degrees in health, this course offers competitive pricing, especially considering the unique tropical environment and small class sizes at CDU.
To be considered for admission, international students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (specific requirements vary by provider). Additionally, applicants must have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent from their home country. CDU may also consider prior study at a tertiary level or relevant work experience. For students who do not meet direct entry requirements, foundation or pathway programs are available through CDU’s Access and Bridging courses. It is important to check the specific entry criteria on CDU’s website, as requirements can change. HeadStart Academy provides this as general guidance only; always confirm with the institution or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course has no mandatory work component, meaning it does not include a required placement or internship as part of the curriculum. However, students are encouraged to seek voluntary work or part-time employment in the sport and exercise field to gain practical experience and build professional networks. During term, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This flexibility allows students to complement their studies with real-world exposure. While not compulsory, gaining hands-on experience can enhance employability upon graduation. For those seeking courses with embedded placements, other health-related programs at different institutions may offer work-integrated learning components.
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science is delivered at CDU’s Casuarina Campus in Casuarina, a suburb of Darwin, Northern Territory. Darwin is the capital city of the NT, with a population of approximately 150,000. The city has a tropical climate, offering a unique lifestyle with access to stunning national parks and a multicultural community. There are several CRICOS-registered providers in Darwin, with CDU being the largest university. The student population in Darwin includes about 5,000 international students from various countries. Living costs in Darwin are generally higher than in other Australian cities due to its remote location. Indicative weekly expenses include: rent for a shared apartment A$300–450, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. The Casuarina Campus is accessible by bus, and many students cycle or use ride-share services. Studying in Darwin provides an immersive experience in a small but vibrant city, with opportunities to engage with Indigenous cultures and tropical research.
International students enrolled in this course will need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. From 1 July 2025, the minimum cost of living in Australia for visa purposes is set at approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student. Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to comply with visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and achieving satisfactory course progress. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition fee safeguards and access to support services. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for this course involves three key steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy to ensure the institution and course are accredited. You can filter by course level, field, and city to find the right fit. Second, apply directly to Charles Darwin University by submitting an application through their online portal. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Pay attention to application deadlines, which may vary by intake (typically February and July). Third, once you receive a Letter of Offer and acceptance, CDU will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this CoE to apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for your departure. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you through this process with up-to-date information.
Choosing to study in the Northern Territory offers a distinct Australian experience. Darwin’s tropical climate means warm weather year-round, with a wet season from November to April. The city has a laid-back lifestyle, a strong multicultural community, and close proximity to natural wonders like Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. For students interested in health and human movement, the NT has a high need for health professionals due to remote and Indigenous communities, offering potential volunteering and research opportunities. However, living costs are higher than in major cities like Melbourne or Sydney, and the small size means fewer job options for dependents. Student support services at CDU are robust, with dedicated international student advisors. If you value a close-knit campus, outdoor lifestyle, and the chance to explore unique ecosystems, studying in the NT could be an excellent choice. Consider your personal preferences and career goals when making this decision.
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Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.