Restructuring the Bachelor of Exercise Science degree to meet industry needs

Abstract

This presentation will examine the restructuring of the Bachelor of Exercise Science at Griffith University on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. There are several motivations behind the restructuring of undergraduate degree programs. Perhaps the most common is to improve the education experience of the students. Changes in the curriculum also allow students more flexibility to select courses to meet their educational objectives. Thirdly, the restructured program will hopefully produce highly qualified graduates who are competitive in the job market. The Bachelor of Exercise Science was introduced in 1995 to prepare graduates to meet emerging employment needs for specialist practitioners in Exercise Science. Crucial to the development of the program was its importance in the proposed graduate entry Physiotherapy program, which commenced in 1999. The program was constructed to also meet the needs of the wider community in the areas of ageing and specialist sporting initiatives. The first graduates completed their studies in 1997. Changes were made to the program based on the results of a graduate survey and focus group discussions. The courses offered in the program have changed significantly since its introduction. By 2003 the program structure was well established with perceived high levels of satisfaction among students and employers. The number of commencing students has increased considerably with the degree being incorporated into a number of double/combined degree programs offered by the School. In 2010 significant changes in the curriculum will be introduced to provide third year students with more electives to assist in creating opportunities for employment.