Diploma in Exercise Science (CRICOS course code 106763J) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification belongs to the field of Human Movement (069903) within the Health category. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00004G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The program is designed to provide foundational knowledge in exercise science, preparing graduates for further study or entry-level roles in the health and fitness industry. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ registered providers, and this diploma is a pathway to understanding human movement, biomechanics, and exercise prescription. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you aim to pursue a bachelor's degree or start a career in exercise therapy, this diploma offers a solid start. ESOS Act protections apply, giving international students legal rights regarding course quality and refund policies.
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This diploma focuses on the scientific principles of human movement. Students typically learn about anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, and exercise programming. The curriculum is designed to develop an understanding of how the body moves and adapts to physical activity. Graduates may find employment as fitness instructors, exercise consultants, or rehabilitation assistants. Alternatively, they can use this diploma as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree in exercise science or related fields. The course is delivered in English, and no dual qualifications or foundation studies are included. As a single qualification, it requires full-time commitment. The learning outcomes align with AQF Level 5, emphasizing technical and theoretical knowledge in a specific area of health. Always refer to the provider's website for the detailed syllabus.
The Diploma in Exercise Science is a 1-year full-time program, totalling 52 weeks according to the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of four locations: Blacktown (NSW), Banyo (QLD), Fitzroy (VIC), or Strathfield (NSW). The course does not include a mandatory work component, though students may seek part-time work during their studies. Standard student visa conditions allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Living costs vary by city — for example, weekly rent in Sydney averages A$300–500, while Brisbane is A$250–400. These estimates are a guide only.
Indicative tuition for the entire program is A$28,344, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total A$28,344. Please note that these fees are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Living costs vary by location but are typically A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Always confirm the latest fees directly with Australian Catholic University Limited at www.acu.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy does not set or collect fees.
Entry requirements for this diploma typically include an IELTS score between 5.5 and 6.0 overall (or equivalent English language test). Applicants are normally expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent overseas qualification. Some providers may require prior study in science or health-related subjects. This course does not include a foundation studies program, so direct entry is likely if you meet the academic and English requirements. However, if you need additional preparation, consider pathway options available at the same institution. Always check the specific entry criteria on the ACU website, as requirements can change. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While some health-related diplomas incorporate practical placements, the CRICOS register indicates that this specific program has no work-integrated learning requirement. Students may still pursue voluntary work or internships independently to gain experience. The absence of a work component can be advantageous for those seeking a purely academic foundation before transitioning to higher study. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions — always verify on the Department of Home Affairs website.
This diploma is delivered at four campuses across three states: Australian Catholic University-Blacktown CBD Campus in Blacktown, NSW; Australian Catholic University-Brisbane Campus in Banyo, QLD; Australian Catholic University-Melbourne Campus in Fitzroy, VIC; and Strathfield Campus in Strathfield, NSW. Each campus offers access to public transport and student facilities. Blacktown and Strathfield are in Greater Sydney, with strong public transport links. Brisbane's Banyo campus is about 12 km north of the CBD, while Fitzroy is an inner suburb of Melbourne. Living costs differ: Sydney is typically more expensive (weekly rent A$300–500), while Brisbane and Melbourne are slightly lower (A$250–450). All campuses are CRICOS-registered and offer support services for international students.
To study this diploma full-time, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: proof of enrolment (CoE) from Australian Catholic University, sufficient English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2025, the student visa application charge is approximately A$710. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependent family members may have different work rights. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current conditions. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a MARA-registered agent for personal guidance.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy's search tools to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Human Movement), and location (NSW, QLD, or VIC). You can compare multiple institutions before deciding. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Visit ACU's website (www.acu.edu.au) to check specific entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once ACU issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Make sure to arrange OSHC and provide evidence of funds. Approved students can commence the 1-year program at one of the four campuses.
This diploma is ideal if you are passionate about health, fitness, and working with people. It offers a practical foundation in human movement without requiring a full three-year degree. Graduates can pursue roles in personal training, community health, or sports coordination. Alternatively, it can lead to a bachelor's degree in exercise science or physiotherapy. Consider your career goals: if you need hands-on clinical skills, a higher qualification may be necessary. Living costs in your chosen city should also factor into your decision — Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive than Brisbane. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, you have many options. HeadStart Academy helps you compare courses and make an informed choice.
All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Australian Catholic University Limited (CRICOS 00004G) is a government-recognised provider. The Diploma in Exercise Science (106763J) is a registered course, meaning it meets the high standards of the ESOS Act. International students receive legal protections, including tuition fee refund guarantees under certain conditions. HeadStart Academy is a free, unbiased resource — we do not charge referral fees or commission. With 26,433 courses available across Australia, our mission is to help you find the right study pathway. Always verify registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au before applying.
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Diploma in Exercise Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.