Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
Qualification Level
Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
An Exercise Physiologist is a degree-qualified allied health professional who prescribes exercise to prevent, manage, and rehabilitate chronic conditions. They work with clients who have cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, or mental health conditions. Exercise Physiologists apply evidence-based methods to design safe, effective programs tailored to each client.
In Australia, practising as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) requires accreditation from ESSA. ESSA is Exercise & Sports Science Australia, the national body for the profession. There are three pathways to AEP status, including a 4-year bachelor’s degree in clinical exercise physiology. A 3-year exercise science degree plus an accredited master’s degree also qualifies. AEP accreditation is recognised by Medicare and the NDIS, opening a range of referral and funding streams.
Exercise Physiologists work across hospitals, private clinics, community health, sports organisations, and corporate wellness programs. They partner with GPs, physiotherapists, and other allied health professionals to deliver integrated care. This breadth of settings makes exercise physiology one of the more flexible allied health careers in Australia.
The average yearly salary is around $107,000 (source: Your Career, Australian Government, 2025). About 5,100 Exercise Physiologists are employed nationally, with strong projected growth. The accredited workforce grew from about 5,100 in 2018 to more than 7,800 by 2024. That is a 50% rise in six years (source: ESSA, 2024).
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
