The Faculty emphasises multi-disciplinary teaching and research innovations, and the development of courses which are responsive to industry demands. Faculty staff are involved in collaborative activities with government bodies, public and private organisations, hospitals and other universities. Key research areas include body image, sexuality, sports nutrition, exercise physiology, quality of life, health psychology and the role of diet and exercise in disease prevention. Class sizes vary, with lectures for up to 400 students, and practical and tutorial classes of approximately 20. Flexible and innovative teaching techniques include applications of information technology, such as 'virtual laboratories', video conferencing and an electronic warehouse.
Many units are available off campus.
The course aims to produce graduates who are adaptable and broadly educated, yet with advanced knowledge and expertise in specific areas of service application. Students will have the opportunity to focus on a particular area of service provision by undertaking specialised elective units, such as employment and disability, family services and early intervention, residential and day services, psychology of disability and rehabilitation counselling. They also learn about residential, community-based and vocational programs for the provision of services to people with disabilities, rehabilitation counselling, and the area of psychological aspects of disability. Practicum placements enable students to observe and gain experience in settings such as residential care facilities, adult training centres, rehabilitation centres, leisure programs and aged care services. Non-Year 12 applicants may be required to sit a STAT test or to submit supplementary information.