Graduate Certificate in
Strength & Conditioning

Unlock opportunities in high-performance sport

Post-grad qualifications X Industry Experience

Step inside the world of elite sport with the Graduate Certificate in Strength & Conditioning

Delivered in partnership between Victoria University and the Western Bulldogs, this unique program combines advanced postgraduate coursework with direct experience inside a professional high-performance environment.

Across one semester students complete four units of academic study, gain over 40 hours embedded in the Bulldogs high-performance department, and learn directly from leading academics and practitioners.

At the completion of the course, students will be equipped with the technical expertise, experience, and connections to make an immediate impact in elite sport and accelerate their careers.

UPCOMING INFO SESSION

Join us at Whitten Oval to find out more about how this innovative post-graduate program can catapult your career in Strength & Conditioning.

 

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2026 Course brochure

Download the course guide for more detailed information.

Learn more about intake dates, units of study and career outcomes.

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immerse youself in the action

  • Exclusive access inside the Western Bulldogs high-performance department
  • Over 40 hours of hands-on industry experience
  • Delivered in partnership with Victoria University — a global leader in sport science
  • Pathway into a Master’s qualification with credit transfer
  • Learn from both leading academics and elite practitioners

Study Advanced S&C Principles

Postgraduate Coursework

The course consists of four units from the Victoria University Masters of Exercise Science designed specifically to give graduates advanced S&C knowledge that applies across all sport.

Coursework is delivered using the award winning VU Block Model.

Industry Experience

Students will spend over 40 hours embedded in the high-performance department of the Western Bulldogs, gaining unparalleled understanding of elite athlete training across all four football programs (AFL, AFLW, VFLW and VFL).

Masterclasses

Practical learning is complimented by a series of Masterclasses from key Western Bulldogs high-performance staff. The program also provides students networking opportunities to further develop industry understanding and future employment prospects.

KEY Course details

Location & Delivery

  • Classes are delivered both at Victoria University, Footscray Park Campus & Online
  • Industry Experience Shifts & Masterclasses are hosted at Mission Whitten Oval, Footscray

Course Duration & Timetable

  • The course is delivered across one semester (16 Weeks, Full Time) and consists of four units of study
  • There is approximately 9 academic contact hours per week (Online & In-person)
  • Club based experiences and learnign opportunities are in addition to academic classes.

Intake & Enrollment

Entry Requirements & Eligibility

To be considered for postgraduate study, you will need to have specific academic qualifications, as outlined below. We also consider non-academic research and work experience for as credit for prior learning.

Admission criteria

Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a similar discipline.

OR

Applicants with a minimum five (5) years approved work experience in roles such as strength and conditioning/rehabilitation coach, sports scientist, personal trainer or something similar will be considered for admission to this course.

OR

Applicants who have completed an award accredited Australian Osteopathic Accreditation Council, are eligible for registration as an osteopath with the Osteopathy Board of Australia, and with approved work experience.

For questions on eligibility and please email institute@westernbulldogs.com.au or complete out pre-application eligibility form – You can complete the form here.

Course Fees

Places in this course are approved for FEE-HELP, enabling students to defer the program fees.

More information can be found on the Victoria University course page.

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Register Your Interest
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COURSE OUTCOMES & PATHWAYS

Outcomes

Become an expert in Strength & Conditioning with this recognised post-graduate qualification that will see you gain;

  • A direct pathway into Masters of Sport and Exercise Science (Strength & Conditioning) – credit towards 4 units
  • Invaluable industry experience & understanding
  • Opportunities to strengthen network and industry connections
  • Credits towards Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

Pathways

Upon completion, participants will have acquired critical postgraduate qualifications typically required to work in high performance sport. This
will prepare you for a range of careers, including:

  • Strength and Conditioning Coach
  • Athletic Performance Coach
  • High Performance Manager
  • Sport Scientist
  • Rehabilitation Coach

Academic outcomes and gained experience can be submitted for credit towards Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points, additional accreditation and Extended Titling with a range of governing bodies and membership organisations within the sport, exercise and allied health industries.

Further things to know

For further detail regarding the Graduate Certificate in Strength & Conditioning, you can visit the Victoria University course page here.

Victoria University, CRICOS No. 00124K (Melbourne), 02475D (Sydney and Brisbane), RTO 3113, TEQSA No. PRV12152

 

Keen To Know More?
Check Your Eligibility

There is consideration given to credit for prior learning and work experience. If you’d like your industry experience (minimum 5 years) to be considered for your application you can complete the pre-enrolment elibibility form and staff will be in touch to discuss your eligbility. Relevant experience in related fields such as strength and conditioning/rehabilitation coach, sports scientist, personal trainer or something similar will be considered for admission to this course.

You can complete the form here.

This will be shared with VU Course Chair for assessment.

MISSION WHITTEN OVAL, FOOTSCRAY

VU FOOTSCRAY PARK, FOOTSCRAY

COURSE DURATION –

ONE SEMESTER

(FULL TIME)

 

DELIVERY MODES –

IN-PERSON &

ONLINE LEARNING