Understanding the science of human movement and performance.
The list of benefits of exercise and sport participation on health, well-being and quality of life is continually growing. Exercise and Sport Science is an internationally recognised scientific discipline consisting of four core sub-disciplines: Biomechanics, Motor control / learning development, Physiology, and Psychology.
Our curriculum is aligned with accrediting bodies in Exercise and Sport Science providing attractive career opportunities.
Why study Exercise and Sport Science?
Our curriculum is aligned with Sport and Exercise New Zealand, and Exercise and Sport Science Australia. After completing our major you will be prepared for their accreditation tests.
Our flexible approach means that you can combine with other major and minor subjects within the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, to provide multiple specialisations to align with your interests. The practical components of study provide opportunities for clinical, lab, or field experience.
Career opportunities
There are numerous opportunities for graduates in Exercise and Sport Science.
Our graduates build careers in roles such as:
- Sport scientist
- Exercise physiologist
- Mental skills trainer
- Performance analyst
- Technique analyst
- Strength and conditioning trainer
- Sport / health industry research and development
- Personal trainer
- Exercise prescription adviser
Background required
There are no specific Year 12 or 13 level NCEA subjects required for admission, however Biology and Physics are helpful. Basic numeracy skills are also recommended.
Qualifications
Explore your study options further. Refer to enrolment information found on the following qualification pages.
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
- Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
- Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad)
Programme requirements
Bachelor of Science (BSc) majoring in Exercise and Sport Science
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | SPEX 101 Sport, Science and Society SPEX 102 Principles of Exercise for Health and Performance ANAT 101 Anatomy for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192) PHSL 101 Physiology for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192) | 18 18 18 18 |
| 200-level | SPEX 201 Biomechanics SPEX 202 Motor Behaviour SPEX 203 Exercise Physiology SPEX 204 Psychology of Sport and Exercise | 18 18 18 18 |
| 300-level | Four of: | 72 |
| Plus | 144 further points (SPEX 206 Te Pū o te Ora Māori Physical Education and Health recommended); must include 36 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science. | 144 |
| Total | 360 |
*Further information will be available for this paper in early September.
Minor subject requirements
Exercise and Sport Science as a minor subject for a BA, MusB, BPA, BTheol, BSc, BAppSc, BCom, BHealSc, BACom, BASc or BComSc degree
Available as a minor subject for a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Music (MusB), Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA), Bachelor of Theology (BTheol), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Health Science (BHealSc), Bachelor of Arts and Commerce (BACom), Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) or Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc) degree
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | SPEX 102 Principles of Exercise for Health and Performance | 18 |
| 200-level | Three of: | 54 |
| 300-level | One of: | 18 |
Note: Students should check the prerequisites for 200- and 300-level papers when selecting papers. | ||
| Total | 90 |
*Further information will be available for this paper in early September.
Key information for future students
Contact us
School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences
Tel +64 3 479 8991
Email physical-education@otago.ac.nz
Web otago.ac.nz/sopeses
