Master of Exercise Physiology

Program Overview

The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing graduates for careers as exercise physiologists in healthcare and fitness settings. With a focus on research and interprofessional learning, the program provides students with a comprehensive education and prepares them for successful careers in the field.

Program Outline

The program combines a strong theoretical foundation in exercise science with practical experience in supervised clinical practice.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to assess, design and implement exercise programs for individuals with a range of health needs.
• Develop graduates with a strong understanding of the scientific principles underlying exercise physiology and chronic disease management.
• Prepare graduates for professional practice as exercise physiologists, working in various healthcare and fitness settings.

Program Outline:

• Program Duration:
• Bachelor: 3 years (full-time) or equivalent (part-time)
• Master: 1.5 years (full-time) or 1 year (accelerated)
• Bachelor/Master Combined: 4-4.5 years (full-time)
• Program structure:
• The Bachelor component focuses on foundational knowledge in anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and health sciences.
• The Master component builds upon this foundation, with specialized courses in clinical exercise physiology, exercise rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and research methods.
• The program involves both theoretical learning and practical experience through laboratory exercises, clinical placements, and research projects.
• Modules:
• Key Modules:
• Exercise Physiology Principles and Practice
• Exercise Testing and Prescription
• Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Exercise Rehabilitation
• Chronic Disease Management
• Research Methods in Exercise Science
• Additional modules:
• Anatomy & Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Nutrition & Metabolism
• Psychology of Exercise & Health
• Public health
• Professional Practice & Ethics
• Course Schedule: The course schedule is available online and can vary depending on the chosen specialization and campus.

Assessment:

Assessments in the program include a combination of:

• Written assignments: essays, reports, case studies
• Practical assessments: laboratory work, clinical skills demonstrations, presentations
• Examinations: multiple choice, short answer, and essay-based
• Research project
The program employs various assessment methods to evaluate students' knowledge, understanding, skills, and critical thinking abilities.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes various teaching methods, including:
• Interactive lectures
• Small-group tutorials and workshops
• Laboratory work and practical sessions
• Case-based learning
• Clinical placements
• Research projects
• Faculty: The program faculty comprises experienced academics and researchers with expertise in exercise physiology, health sciences, and related fields.
• Faculty members have strong industry connections, ensuring students receive up-to-date information and insights into the professional world.
• Students benefit from personalized attention and guidance throughout the program.
• Unique Approaches:
• The program integrates research into the curriculum, offering opportunities for students to participate in research projects and gain hands-on experience.
• The program emphasizes interprofessional learning, encouraging collaboration with students from other health disciplines.
• The strong focus on clinical placements provides students with valuable real-world experience and prepares them for successful careers.

Careers:

• Career Opportunities:
Graduates can pursue careers in various settings, such as:
• Hospitals and rehabilitation clinics
• Private practice
• Community health
• Fitness and sports centers
• Research institutions
• Government and public health organizations
• Specific career pathways:
• Exercise Physiologist
• Accredited Exercise Scientist
• Clinical Exercise Specialist
• Exercise Rehabilitation Specialist
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Sports scientist
• Career Outcomes: La Trobe University graduates in exercise physiology are highly employable and enjoy successful careers in various fields.
Many alumni secure positions in leading healthcare and fitness organizations, while some pursue further research or postgraduate studies.

Other:

• Overseas study opportunities: Students may have opportunities for student exchanges and international placements, enriching their learning experience.
• Exercise physiology placements: Students undertake clinical placements in various settings throughout the course.
These placements can be in metropolitan or rural locations, interstate, or even overseas.
• La Trobe University received world leading ranking for its research in Human Movement and Sports Science in 2010 and 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Conclusion:

The Exercise Physiology program at La Trobe University is a comprehensive and well-regarded program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for a successful career in the field. With its strong academic foundation, practical application, and focus on research and professional practice, the program prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.