Health science on the NSW Mid North Coast will take a leap forward this week as Charles Sturt University (CSU) begins two new programs in Port Macquarie.

CSU will welcome 54 Bachelor of Physiotherapy and 20 Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science students to the coastal campus.

Head of the School of Community Health, Associate Professor Megan Smith said, "This intake of physiotherapy students will be a first for Charles Sturt University in Port Macquarie and add to the growing profile of the University in delivering education opportunities for students of the region.

"We also hope our graduates will help meet the growing need for allied health professionals in rural and regional Australia."

Head of CSU's School of Exercise Science, Sport and Health, Professor Frank Marino is also pleased to welcome a new group of students to the region.

"Exercise and sports science is a rapidly growing industry which continues to require high level skills and knowledge," Professor Marino said.

"Our recent graduates are employed in a variety of settings including corporate health and fitness, government-based sport and recreation offices, strength and conditioning coaches for sporting teams, and in retirement communities.

"Charles Sturt University's degree prepares graduates to enter the many facets of the global sports industry as experts. 

"In years to come it will enhance the knowledge base of the local community and attract high level industry partners. We are excited about building this opportunity for the Port Macquarie community."

CSU will invest $500 0000 over the next three years fitting out new laboratories at Port Macquarie to allow students to practice the hands-on skills and techniques they'll use in their careers.

The investment in both physiotherapy and exercise science will include specialist laboratories, anatomy and physiology laboratory and resistance training facility.

CSU offers its Bachelor of Physiotherapy in Albury-Wodonga, Orange and in Port Macquarie. The University's Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science is offered in Bathurst, Port Macquarie and through CSU online.