Sport scientist
What does a sport scientist do?
A sport scientist applies the science of human movement, such as physiology, biomechanics and strength and conditioning, to test, train and improve physical performance, fitness and health. They assess athletes and everyday people, design exercise and conditioning programs, and use data to help people move better, perform better and stay healthy. Some focus on athletic performance, while others use exercise to support health and prevent injury or chronic disease.
Sport scientists work across professional and community sporting clubs, high-performance and institute-of-sport settings, gyms and fitness centres, and health, corporate and community wellbeing programs. Some work in university or research laboratories. The work mixes hands-on testing and coaching with data analysis.
Is sport science right for me?
A career in sport science may suit you if you are interested in sport, health and the human body, and you enjoy helping people improve. You need a strong grounding in science, good people skills, and an interest in movement and performance.
Other skills and attributes that suit this career include:
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become a sport scientist
Every career journey is individual, and the usual path into sport science is a dedicated degree. Most people start with a bachelor degree in sport and exercise science, which includes professional placement and leads towards accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia. Clinical and high-performance roles usually call for the four-year honours degree.
Here are some steps you can take to become a sport scientist:
- Complete a bachelor degree in sport and exercise science, such as UniSQ's Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science.
- Complete the professional placement built into the degree.
- Apply for accreditation with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
- For clinical exercise physiology roles, study the four-year Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours).
- Keep building your experience and specialist skills over time.
Accreditation and qualifications
You will typically need to complete a three or four-year bachelor degree in sport and exercise science, exercise science, human movement, or a related field. Professional recognition runs through Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), which accredits university programs and then accredits individual graduates.
How long does it take to become a sport scientist?
UniSQ's Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science takes three years of full-time study, or longer if you study part-time.
If you want to become a registered clinical exercise physiologist, UniSQ also offers a Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours) which is a four-year degree.
Building experience in a particular setting, such as elite sport or clinical practice, then takes further time on the job.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Build the science and practical skills for a sport science career with a UniSQ sport and exercise science degree, developing the knowledge and hands-on experience needed for professional practice.
Responsibilities and work settings
Screening and assessing fitness, movement and performance.
Designing and delivering exercise and conditioning programs.
Testing and analysing strength, physiology and biomechanics data.
Supporting goal-setting and behaviour change.
Advising coaches, athletes and teams on performance.
Sport and recreation organisations
Community health organisations
Defence forces and defence contractors
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Research institutes and research centres
Universities and higher education providers
Sport scientist FAQs
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