Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Exercise Physiology
Allied Health
A course by
UC Online
A 1-year part-time online postgraduate certificate providing the academic expertise required to become an accredited Clinical Exercise Physiologist, focusing on exercise-based interventions for chronic and complex health conditions. Includes up to 10 days onsite in Christchurch.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Christchurch (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury), Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 18 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Develop advanced knowledge in clinical exercise physiology
Understand the pathophysiological basis of chronic, complex, and cardiac conditions; evaluate evidence for exercise as a treatment modality.
Apply exercise prescription for high-risk populations
Design and deliver safe, effective exercise interventions for individuals with musculoskeletal injuries, chronic disease, or post-surgical needs.
Conduct physiological assessments and interpret test results
What You're Signing Up For
The Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Exercise Physiology equips graduates with specialist knowledge and skills to design, deliver, and supervise evidence-based exercise programmes for individuals with chronic, complex, or musculoskeletal health conditions. Delivered primarily online, with brief in-person intensives required in Christchurch, this qualification supports those with a relevant health or sport science degree and clinical experience to pursue accreditation as a clinical exercise physiologist. The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skill development in clinical exercise prescription and rehabilitation. Graduates assist in managing and preventing illness, injury, or disability by using progressive exercise and health education strategies.
Course Content
- Exercise Rehabilitation in Cardiac, Complex and Chronic Conditions (SSCI411)
- Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation (SSCI410)
- Cardiac disease and chronic condition pathophysiology
- Exercise prescription safety, interpretation and risk assessment
- Design and supervision of exercise programmes
- Functional anatomy of the spine and joints
- Rehabilitation prescription for injury, disease, or post-surgery
- Evidence-based exercise interventions and outcome evaluation
What you need to know first
A completed degree in a relevant field (e.g. health or sport/sport science) with a B average or higher
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health
Exercise science
Rehabilitation
Allied health
Future employment opportunities might be
Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Rehabilitation Specialist