James Cook University

Townsville or Cairns, Queensland

Details

University Location Townsville or Cairns, Queensland
Address 1 James Cook Drive, Douglas QLD 4814, Australia
Main Campus Townsville
City Population 201,000
Student Population 13,000
Int'l Student Population 2,000
Semester 1 Start January
Semester 2 Start May
Semester 3 Start September

Overview

Born for the Tropics
One of the world’s leading institutions focusing on the tropics, James Cook University is surrounded by the spectacular ecosystems of the rainforests of the wet tropics, the dry savannahs, and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. JCU’s unique location enables students to study in a diverse physical environment unparalleled by any university in the world.

The 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings and 2024 ShanghaiRanking Academic Ranking of World Universities place James Cook University in the top 2% of universities worldwide. JCU is focused on addressing the critical challenges facing the tropics, in areas as diverse as medicine, dentistry, marine science, nursing, arts and society.

With the JCU’s commitment to be relevant to their own region, they have forged close links into the economy and social fabric of the northern Queensland. The university is dedicated to ensuring that teaching, learning, and research is not only of high quality, but also delivers practical benefits to the peoples and industries of the region.

 

Why Study Here?

Canadian students at JCU love the fact that they can study exceptional professional degrees in a beautiful, natural environment. JCU programs are hands-on and academics work closely with industry leaders to ensure degrees prepare you for “real world” careers, especially those focused on rural and remote health.

Some of the most popular study areas among Canadian students include medicine, dentistry, law, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physiotherapy, public health, sciences, teaching, undergraduate STEM, and graduate STEM.

Location Details

Townsville
JCU’s main campus is in Townsville, which is a thriving coastal city and port, and a stepping-off point for visiting the Great Barrier Reef. The resort regions of the Whitsunday Islands and Mission Beach are within easy reach.

JCU is in a tropical area, which has a regional setting as opposed to a big city setting. The population of the area reflects many university towns in Canada, and OzTREKK students enjoy the gorgeous, hot weather and the friendliness of Northern Queenslanders. The City of Townsville provides you with the feeling of a small-town atmosphere, yet there is plenty to see and do in and around the city. The campus is set in the bush and provides students the ability to relax while at school. As a smaller university, JCU staff members are approachable and friendly, and students enjoy the attention they receive upon arrival and throughout their program.

Cairns
With more than 2 million visitors annually, Cairns is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, and this is where JCU’s second largest campus is located. Attractions include two World Heritage natural environments—the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Wet Tropics ancient rainforests. Nearby resort regions include Port Douglas and Mission Beach, and the picturesque Atherton Tablelands and outback Queensland are within easy reach.

Weather
North Queensland is well known for embracing a safe and relaxed tropical lifestyle. Established Indigenous, European and Asian communities add to the cultural diversity of the region not usually found outside of the capital cities. Both Townsville and Cairns enjoy excellent tropical climates for most of the academic year including autumn, winter, and spring, and an average winter temperature of around 25°C. Yes, we said winter.

1/30

“…great opportunities for placements”

JCU is an amazing campus. People here are amazing and I have made many friends. I wish the school was better at communicating. JCU nursing has so many amazing professors, and great opportunities for placements. I wish more of my classes were in person instead of prerecorded lectures online. Be prepared for the cost of placement. I was unaware that I could be placed anywhere in Australia for placement. While it provides you with great opportunities, it is also costly to travel to them.

JCU Australia Isabella R
Bachelor of Nursing Science (Preregistration)
James Cook University, 2024

“JCU is an amazing university where students come first.”

MBBS is probably the best and quickest route that a student could take to become a doctor. It's also not as known in Canada so even knowing that this program exists is niche and special as a Canadian. Knowledge is genuinely power. Instructors, as mentioned in the previous question put students first. They want us to succeed. There are soo many clubs offered here and I am involved in almost every single one about medicine because there are Balls, Events, and Tips and Tricks nigh... Read More

JCU Australia Anna H
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“I couldn’t be happier with my choice to study MBBS at JCU.”

As a current student in the MBBS program at James Cook University, I can say that this journey has been both rewarding and transformative. Here's my personal take on what makes JCU stand out: Curriculum and Learning Experience From day one, the program integrates basic sciences with clinical practice, which I found incredibly beneficial. Instead of waiting years to see patients, we're in clinical settings early on. This hands-on experience really helps us a... Read More

JCU Australia Nayan C
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“…very extensive dentistry building”

A small but cosy campus with a very extensive dentistry building. Lots of hands on training which is great and lots of great professors always willing to help.

JCU Australia Isabelle M
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“The buildings are quite new and everything is well kept”

James Cook University is a very welcoming university. They are a smaller university with smaller classes that provide students with the opportunity to get to know their professors. The buildings are quite new and everything is well kept. They have a free lunch every Wednesday which is pretty cool. The on campus gym is not great, and isn't very clean so I recommend getting a membership elsewhere. I'm in nursing so the simulation rooms allow further learning. The instructors are ... Read More

JCU Australia Ameris W
Bachelor of Nursing Science (Preregistration)
James Cook University, 2024

“The clinical skills training I think is the most valuable and exciting!”

The instructors for my first year have been pretty good! They are easy to approach and are each very enthusiastic and passionate about the module they teach. The clinical skills training I think is the most valuable and exciting! Communication skills, Vital signs, Basic life support are just some of the things we covered in our first year as a medical student for the Clinical aspects. I also underwent my first placement at a sports clinic which was pretty exciting and great way... Read More

JCU Australia Hashim S
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“You start placement in 1st year which is amazing”

JCU is a great university. The course is run over six years so it's more relaxed than condensed 4 year courses. You start placement in 1st year which is amazing getting that clinical experience early. Most universities don't start placement till second or third year medicine. I love the early clinical exposure, especially in rural and tropical health settings. Instructors are experienced and approachable, though some could be more accessible. The course structure is intense but well-organized, blending theory and practice from the start.

JCU Australia Clara E
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“Instructors are super involved in your learning”

James Cook University provides students with a community like atmosphere, there's many ongoing events to make the student experience a valuable one. Instructors are super involved in your learning, they are always willing to answer questions and guide you throughout and make sure their students are on track. Make sure to put yourself out there, don't keep to yourself and it'll make the experience a lot easier, more enjoyable and a lighter adjustment.

JCU Australia Kavleen G
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2024

“I enjoy the people and community”

I enjoy the people and community but the activities and leisure is not very appealing nor is there much to do. I love the learning but i feel that there is not enough time to rest. I would recommend being prepared to be organized. Ask for help everyone is super friendly.

JCU Australia Dhaiya B
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“I love how we get exposed to placements and clinical skills in first year”

I love how we get exposed to placements and clinical skills in first year. Not much to dislike! [I recommend you] start practicing a good work ethic because once you fall behind it's difficult to catch up again. But also remember it's okay to have some fun. You just need to find a good balance.

JCU Australia Abigail H
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“I like the simulation clinic and the professors”

I like the simulation clinic and the professors, but the university is a little disorganized and it's difficult to find accommodation for next year. The program is comprehensive but the assessments are sometimes unclear. Make sure you do your research into the program; you can never be too prepared. But also remember that you're entering a new and exciting chapter of your life and celebrate your achievement and enjoy yourself. Everyone here is really nice. Not sure about clubs,... Read More

JCU Australia Parshast S
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“Teaching methods based very much on practical application and very helpful”

Small campus, very individualized services and strong consideration for feedback, well kept campus and beautiful secluded campus in the rainforest. Dentistry students (especially international students) are very well supported! According to mature aged students, clinical experience is unlike any other uni in Australia! Any dislikes would be some scheduling errors as it's a small uni and some professors can be bad at communicating between one another/doing their own thing (wh... Read More

JCU Australia Clara S
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“I like the amount of support students get”

I like the amount of support students get, I dislike how terrible their budgeting is. I like the hands on nature, but I dislike the other younger kids that clearly shouldn't have been admitted. Get ready to study outside all day, it's hot. Don't worry about making friends, you're now the exotic one!

JCU Australia Maximilian W
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“…hands on work and patient management”

James cook university is in a beautiful location. Great campus and it's very easy to find classes. They don't put on any sporting activities on a weekly basis. The thing I like most about dentistry is the hands on work and patient management. I dislike some of the chemistry we have to do sometimes.

JCU Australia Nate M
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“Love every aspect of it. ”

Really enjoy the practical aspects of the program. The fact that we have already had some lab experience and drilling has been great. Love every aspect of it. Prepare to be on your own. Not only are you responsible for studies, but cooking, cleaning, shopping, etc. Additionally, be prepared to 'lose' your home support, so I encourage you to leverage any and all support systems to adapt.

JCU Australia Evangelos W
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“I love JCU”

Facilities are good, services are good as well. In terms of organized activities the student body is tight knit. More opportunities are given in later years, which I can understand. It is nice to have the home group structure at JCU, it really connects the students. The rural aspect isn't as jarring as it sounded on paper and overall I love JCU. Class sizes are perfect. They are not too large nor small. Teaching methods are fair yet tough, though this is expected given it is me... Read More

JCU Australia Pravnoor Singh M
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“…it’s easy to make friends”

like: small campus and most people come from different parts of Australia so it's easy to make friends; simulation clinics starting in first year.  Everything is combined in one subject, small campus - really little people doesn't feel like a university. Be ready for simulation clinics!

JCU Australia Kathryn W
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2023

“Much of the material is relevant to Canadian Law”

The instructor are great, very down to earth, knowledgeable and approachable. The teaching methods are excellent; all lectures/tutorials are recorded, which make it much better to study and learn, especially when it is exam time. For future Canadian students, the law program at James Cook University is world class. Much of the material is relevant to Canadian Law. There is a dedicated law section and law librarian at the university library. Also, the year round sunny and nice weather are a huge plus!

JCU Australia Lovepreet
Bachelor of Laws
James Cook University, 2023

“Hands-on simulation clinic from day 1”

Small campus that's not too busy (what I like) It can get really hot :) Hands-on simulation clinic from day 1

JCU Australia Dominique K
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2022

“… feeling challenged and fulfilled by the rigorous curriculum”

I ultimately chose to attend James Cook University, in their Bachelor of Advanced Science program majoring in Marine Biology, having been awarded a 100% Vice Chancellor's International Scholarship. I am now settled into JCU, feeling challenged and fulfilled by the rigorous curriculum, inspiring professors, experiential labs and having the Great Barrier Reef as my classroom! I am loving residential life at Burralga Yumba, going on adventures with the JCU Dive Club, and enjoying fun with new international friends in Townsville!

JCU Australia Justice B
Bachelor of Advanced Science (Marine Biology)
James Cook University, 2022

“I’ve already attended 2 clinical skills sessions and I just can’t believe I’ve begun my med journey”

I’m glad I accepted my JCU offer and I’m loving it here—the people are super friendly and welcoming. There are lots of Canadians here and the culture is amazing. The material is super fun too. I’ve already attended 2 clinical skills sessions and I just can’t believe I’ve begun my med journey which used to be a dream at one point.

JCU Australia Robin S
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2022

“I enjoy studying dentistry because it is something that I have always wanted to do”

I like university simply because I am taking a degree that I always wanted to take. Being able to go and learn new things every day is what I really enjoy about university. I am enjoying my program. I enjoy studying dentistry because it is something that I have always wanted to do. I also find the course material quite interesting.

JCU Australia Brandon K
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2019

“Dentistry students get access to home groups inside the dental building 24/7”

Yes, there's many fun events going on all the time to enjoy and also quiet areas to study! Dentistry students get access to home groups inside the dental building 24/7 and we can study there whenever, also there's a fridge and microwave available which is very helpful!! Overall, amazing facilities as well. [The program is] very hands on and I am learning heaps!

JCU Australia Ibadat S
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
James Cook University, 2019

“The program allows for a lot more clinical experience…”

The people are very kind and interesting. The program allows for a lot more clinical experience than other programs.

JCU Australia Gradon F.
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
James Cook University, 2018

“The Bachelor of Pharmacy program is really unique as it offers teaching to smaller classes and the teaching quality is amazing!”

I really love how James Cook University create event especially for international students, mainly the weekly Cafe International where everyone can have a chat and play board games while having free coffee! The Bachelor of Pharmacy program is really unique as it offers teaching to smaller classes and the teaching quality is amazing!

JCU Australia John Max M.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
James Cook University, 2018

“I love my program.”

I love my program. The clinical skills part is the most intriguing aspect. Do not underestimate the workload, but also don’t let it swallow up your whole life. Balance is key. Also get to know others outside of the program. Being surrounded only by medical peers sometimes can be draining.

JCU Australia Cassandra C
Medicine
James Cook University, 2018

“I like everything about the program”

I like everything about the program and the university. The only downside I have found is that it was different than getting education in North America and the standards are much higher. It is going well, I took to it fairly quickly though I still adapt to new things every day.

JCU Australia Daniel D
Medicine
James Cook University, 2018

“…really prepares you for the field.”

I like the amount of clinical work they make you do which really prepares you for the field. The transitioning process is easier than expected and as long as one stays on top of the school work, it is also manageable.

JCU Australia Rama M
Medicine
James Cook University, 2018

“Wish I did this sooner. ”

Excellent amount of clinical time! It is great! Wish I did this sooner.

JCU Australia Brock M
Dentistry
James Cook University, 2018

“You get to know all the staff on a first-name basis and are able to get lots of one-on-one help if needed”

The JCU pharmacy program is great and I really think it properly prepares you for the registration exams (both written and the oral OSCE).  It’s a fairly small program so you get to know all the staff on a first-name basis and are able to get lots of one-on-one help if needed. JCU always emphasized the importance of being both prepa... Read More

JCU Australia Jeremy W
Bachelor of Pharmacy
James Cook University, 2014