James Cook University

University Overview
QS World University Rankings
#415
Number of International students
#1,500
Number of courses
107
Campus
Townsville, Cairns, Brisbane, Mackay, Mount Isa, Thursday Island. Overseas campus: Singapore
Class start time
Every February, July & November
Popular departments
Environmental Protection, Earth Sciences, Marine Biology, Tropical Biology
University Introduction
James Cook University (JCU), the second oldest university in Queensland, is a public teaching and research institution located in North Queensland. Established in 1970 and named after the famous 18th-century British navigator Captain James Cook, JCU has main campuses in the tropical cities of Townsville and Cairns, and an international campus in Singapore, the first in Singapore to receive the Edutrust Star certification.
Additionally, JCU has study centres in Mount Isa, Mackay, Thursday Island, and Rockhampton, as well as a Brisbane campus operated by Russo Higher Education. JCU excels in marine biology, tropical research, and environmental sciences and is a member of the Innovative Research Universities Australia (IRUA), providing extensive research resources.
Popular Fields
- Marine Biology: Located near the Great Barrier Reef, JCU is ideally positioned for studying marine ecosystems. The Marine Biology program covers marine ecology, marine conservation, and biodiversity. Students have opportunities for hands-on marine research and fieldwork.
- Environmental Science:JCU's Environmental Science program focuses on tropical and subtropical environments, covering ecology, environmental management, and conservation biology. Students benefit from practical experiences in diverse natural habitats.
- Tropical Medicine and Public Health: JCU is a leader in tropical medicine and public health, addressing health challenges in tropical regions. The program includes epidemiology, tropical diseases, and health promotion, with a strong emphasis on research and practical application in tropical settings.
- Tourism and Hospitality Management:With its proximity to major tourist destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, JCU offers a robust Tourism and Hospitality Management program. The curriculum includes tourism management, sustainable tourism, and hospitality operations.
- Earth and Environmental Science:JCU excels in Earth and Environmental Sciences, offering courses in geology, geophysics, and environmental geoscience. The program focuses on the sustainable management of natural resources and environmental protection.
- Veterinary Science:JCU's Veterinary Science program is highly regarded, providing comprehensive training in animal health, surgery, and diagnostics. The program emphasizes practical skills and fieldwork, preparing students for careers in veterinary medicine.


