Top 2%

Best universities worldwide

(2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings)

No.1

Australia for full-time employment

(2019-2021 Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching Graduate Outcomes Survey, International UG study area)

No.1

Queensland for Starting Salary

(2024 Good Universities Guide)

Top 10

Australia for Ecology

(2023 Shanghai Ranking, Global Ranking of Academic Subjects)

No.1

Australia for sustainable education

(2023 QS Sustainability Rankings)

No.1

Australia for learner engagement

(2024 Good Universities Guide, UG Pharmacy)

James Cook University Overview

Welcome to James Cook University (JCU), ranked in the top 2% universities in the world, and offering career-focused courses and renowned research excellence.

JCU graduates emerge well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for success in the global workforce. Students at JCU can seize the opportunity to explore, discover, and thrive in some of the world’s most spectacular and iconic locations, from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforests of the Wet Tropics to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and the bustling cityscape of Singapore with its multicultural tapestry, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant business hub.

We provide a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including Higher Degree by Research options, along with a variety of pathway programs. Explore our course offerings and become part of our vibrant community of students and researchers who are actively making a difference and shaping the future.

What is James Cook University known for?

James Cook University (JCU) is known for several key strengths and areas of specialization:

  • Tropical Research: JCU is globally recognized for its research and teaching related to the tropics. This includes studies on tropical ecosystems, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable management of tropical environments.
  • Marine Sciences: The university has a strong reputation in marine biology and marine sciences, particularly research related to the Great Barrier Reef, which is located close to its campuses.
  • Environmental Sciences: JCU is renowned for its focus on environmental science and management, offering comprehensive courses and research opportunities in this field.
  • Public Health and Tropical Medicine: JCU has significant expertise in public health, particularly in relation to tropical health issues. It conducts important research in areas such as infectious diseases, rural and remote health, and Indigenous health.
  • Indigenous Studies: The university is committed to Indigenous education and research, with programs focused on Indigenous Australian studies, Indigenous health, and supporting Indigenous students.
  • Sustainability: JCU is known for its emphasis on sustainability and conservation, including sustainable practices in tourism and agriculture, especially in tropical contexts.
  • International Education: With campuses in Australia and Singapore, JCU offers a diverse and international learning environment, attracting students from all over the world.

James Cook University Study Area

  • Allied Health and Pharmacy
  • Biomedical Science
  • Business, Law and Finance
  • Marine Science
  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Nursing and Midwifery
  • Development and the Environment
  • Public Health and Tropical Medicine
  • Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths
  • Society and Culture
  • Sport and Exercise Science
  • Teaching and Education
  • Tourism
  • Veterinary and Animal Science
  • Pathways and Preparation

James Cook University Entry Requirement

  • English Requirement: To be eligible for a higher education course at JCU, international students must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band score below 5.5. However, programs related to Teaching, Social Work and Nursing demand a higher level of English proficiency, requiring minimum IELTS scores of 7.0 depending on each course.
  • Academic Requirement: Normally, applicants are required to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. The minimum academic record varies, depending on each course.
  • Other Requirement: If you want to study Medicine or Dentistry at James Cook University, you must also meet the course prerequisite. Your Year 12 studies must include the following subjects: English, Mathematical Methods and Chemistry.

James Cook University Tuition fee

Tuition fees vary depending on the specific course. However, as of 2024, the average annual tuition cost typically can range from $26,000 to $38,000.

James Cook University Scholarships for international students

JCU International Excellence Scholarship

The JCU International Excellence Scholarship offers a 25% reduction in tuition fees for the entirety of approved full-degree study programs. To be qualified for this scholarship, a minimum ATAR of 65 (or its equivalent) is required. For those enrolling in a Postgraduate degree, they must have achieved at least 65%, assuming 50% is the pass mark, in their relevant qualifications. To maintain this scholarship, recipients must keep a high GPA each semester. For more information, visit https://www.jcu.edu.au/scholarships/search/international-excellence-scholarship

JCU International Merit Stipend

The JCU International Merit Stipend offers international students fortnightly payments of A$400 to help cover expenses during their studies at JCU, conditional upon maintaining a strong GPA. Eligibility for this stipend requires that you are an international student initiating your studies at JCU for the first time and enrolling as a full-time student in either an undergraduate or postgraduate program. Applicants for undergraduate programs must have an ATAR of 65 or its equivalent. For postgraduate programs, applicants must have achieved at least 65%, with 50% being the minimum pass mark, in their relevant previous qualifications. For more information, visit
https://www.jcu.edu.au/scholarships/search/international-merit-stipend.