Exercise Physiology
Not sure where you want to work after graduation? A rural placement lets you try out the wide variety of different options that exist within the field of Exercise Physiology. Going rural gives you a competitive edge on your CV. Explore some of NSW’s most beautiful communities while gaining interprofessional skills and networks, and a wide variety of clinical experience.
I was initially worried about the costs required for a rural or remote placement, so the UONDRH rural accommodation was a great help! The facilities were very clean, and included a large kitchen with appliances, big fridges, enough cupboard space for everyone, two shared bathrooms, a laundry with multiple washing machines and dryers, a lounge room, a big backyard, and available car park spaces. Each student got their own room with a desk and cupboard. I enjoyed my stay and was able to meet lots of other UON placement students staying in the accommodation too!"
Grace McKeown – Final Year Master of Exercise Physiology student
When selecting preferences for placement opportunities, the thought of having to complete a Rural placement always came with the burden of money, housing and time away from home life.
I thought of this initially when selecting Port Macquarie, for my first placement. I had a quick change of mind after I was told about UONDRH. When I reached out to UONDRH in relation to accommodation, I first contacted the number and they informed me to complete the short application process, and only waited a short period for a response. I had my approval and was sent through the simple information that I required before my stay, very efficiently, so minimal stress waiting for confirmation was experienced.
The house was exactly what you need for both a long and short stay. The rooms were a great size, with a desk and storage space. It is a very comfortable living space that has great facilities to use. The online security system for locking/unlocking rooms is effective and convenient.
All in all, I really enjoyed my stay and recommend students to utilise UONDRH for their rural placements."
Elizabeth McCarthy – Final Year Master of Exercise Physiology student
Top reasons Master of Exercise Physiology students choose rural:
- World-class learning facilities
- Greater patient access and small-group learning
- Interdisciplinary learning and exposure
- Subsidised student accommodation*
- Opportunities to engage with the local community and to study and socialise with students from a variety of health professions
*Students can access free accommodation in Moree or apply for subsidised accommodation at one of our other main locations. Read more about student accommodation in our Student Orientation Manual.
Placements Information
Throughout your Exercise Physiology program, you will complete 360 placement hours across multiple placements. We offer flexibility to ensure the best placement experience. You can complete your hours (120 hours per placement) either in a block or over a longer period if required. During your rural placement you may have the opportunity to be involved in interprofessional activities that will strengthen your understanding of patient centred approaches to health care and build connections with other allied health students.
Competitive study advantage and learn from the best
Exercise Physiology is one of the fastest growing industries. There is continual demand for exercise treatment and delivery services in a wide range of areas across a broad range of locations. The need for Exercise Physiologists in rural and remote communities provides an excellent prospect for students to learn and develop their clinical skills and to look at providing high quality services in client care. Providers are looking to expand their clinical practice therefore new graduates who recently completed a rural placement would have an increased chance of employment. A placement in a rural based EP clinic is a fantastic experience to understand the importance of Exercise Physiology in a growing need for healthcare in remote communities.
Funding support
You may be entitled to a scholarship or grant to assist your studies, such as Health Education and Training scholarships.
How to apply
Contact your placement coordinator exphysplacement@newcastle.edu.au. Once you have your rural placement confirmed, you must register with us via our placement portal to access community and accommodation support.
More information
Master of Exercise Physiology – Practicum Coordinator
Email: exphysplacement@newcastle.edu.au
CHMW Professional Experience Unit:
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.