Bachelor of Science (Honours) [End-on] (CRICOS course code 085388E) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by James Cook University over 1 year. This end-on honours program is designed for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in a related science field and wish to deepen their knowledge and research skills. Located in Queensland, James Cook University offers this course at its Cairns and Townsville campuses, providing access to unique tropical environments for scientific study. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00117J), international students can enrol and are protected by the ESOS Act. This page provides detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and the student visa process to help you plan your studies in Australia.
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This honours program falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (code 019999). Students typically undertake advanced coursework and a substantial research project, developing skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and academic writing. Graduates gain the ability to design and execute independent research, critically evaluate scientific literature, and communicate findings effectively. This level of study (AQF Level 8) prepares students for higher research degrees or roles in research institutions, government agencies, and industry. While the specific syllabus is set by James Cook University, honours programs generally require a thesis or research component that demonstrates mastery of a specialised area.
The course is registered on CRICOS for 1 year (52 weeks). It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and is delivered in English. Study modes may include full-time on-campus attendance, with some components possibly available online depending on the provider. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The course is not a VET program (no VET national code) and does not include a foundation studies component. Check with James Cook University for specific teaching arrangements and session dates.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$42,477 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, giving an estimated total of A$42,477. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check James Cook University's official website. Living costs in Cairns or Townsville are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent between A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50. Use the Australian Government's cost of living calculator for personalised estimates.
Typical English language requirements are IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall with no band below 5.5–6.0. For this honours level, applicants usually need a completed bachelor's degree in a relevant science discipline with a specified grade point average (e.g., credit average or higher). Specific prerequisites and application criteria are set by James Cook University. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, foundation or pathway programs may be available—consult the provider for options. Always verify entry requirements directly with the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs but should not be relied upon to cover tuition fees.
This course is delivered at James Cook University's campuses in Cairns (Smithfield, QLD) and Townsville (Townsville, QLD). Both cities are in tropical North Queensland and offer a unique environment for science studies, with access to the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests. Cairns has a population of about 150,000, while Townsville is larger with around 180,000 residents. Each city has multiple CRICOS-registered providers—over 10 in Cairns and over 15 in Townsville—offering a range of courses. Public transport is available via buses, and both campuses are accessible from the city centres. Living costs are moderate compared to southern capitals.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding OSHC for the duration of stay. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, OSHC, and living costs. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (subject to change). For detailed guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare James Cook University with other providers offering similar honours programs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on James Cook University's website. Submit your academic transcripts and supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once JCU issues a CoE, lodge your visa application online, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Remember to apply well before the course start date to allow processing time.
Studying in Cairns or Townsville offers access to world-class natural environments ideal for science investigations. Both cities have a relaxed lifestyle, lower living costs than capital cities, and a multicultural student community. Cairns is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, while Townsville has Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. However, consider the tropical climate—hot and humid in summer, with a wet season from November to April. Public transport is limited compared to big cities, so many students choose to live near campus. With over 26,000 CRICOS-registered courses across Australia, it's important to weigh location-specific factors. HeadStart Academy helps you explore all options to find the best fit.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy to find more CRICOS-registered courses or visit James Cook University's website to start your application.
Bachelor of Science (Honours) [End-on] is a CRICOS-registered programme at James Cook University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.