Bachelor of Arts (Honours) [End-on] (CRICOS course code 085456J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by James Cook University over 1 year. This course, classified under Society and Culture, is designed for students who have already completed a Bachelor degree in arts or a related field and wish to deepen their knowledge through advanced coursework and a research thesis. James Cook University (JCU), a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 00117J, offers this degree at its campuses in Cairns and Townsville, Queensland. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it provides a pathway to higher research degrees or enhanced career opportunities. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide accurate, up-to-date information. With over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses listed across Australia, this course stands out for its focus on research skills and critical analysis. Prospective students should note that fees and entry requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed with the provider.
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) [End-on] (CRICOS course code 085456J) is a 1-year Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) offered by James Cook University. It falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (Field of Education 099999). This end-on honours program is designed for graduates of a Bachelor of Arts or equivalent who want to advance their knowledge and research skills. The course is delivered in English and does not include a mandatory work component. As a single qualification, it is not a dual degree or foundation studies program. James Cook University is a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00117J, ensuring compliance with Australian standards for international education. All data on HeadStart Academy comes from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, which lists 1,556 registered providers offering 26,433 courses. International students are protected by the ESOS Act, which guarantees quality assurance and consumer protection. The course is available at two Queensland locations: Cairns (Smithfield) and Townsville. For the most accurate and current information, always refer to the provider's website.
As a Bachelor Honours Degree, this course focuses on advanced study and research within the Society and Culture field. Students typically undertake a research thesis or project alongside coursework that develops critical analysis, research methodologies, and advanced disciplinary knowledge. While the exact syllabus is determined by James Cook University, honours graduates in this field often gain skills in academic writing, data analysis, and research design. This level of study is ideal for those considering a PhD or research career, or for enhancing employability in sectors such as policy, education, arts management, and community development. The Society and Culture field encompasses diverse subjects including history, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies, allowing students to specialise based on their interests and prior studies. Honours programs are designed to build on undergraduate knowledge and produce graduates capable of independent research. Students should consult the provider for specific subject offerings and learning outcomes.
This course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time and in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The single qualification structure means students focus entirely on the honours program without additional layers. Study mode is typically on-campus at the delivery locations, with classes and supervision held during standard academic semesters. International students must maintain a full-time enrolment load to comply with student visa conditions. The 52-week duration includes both teaching and examination periods, but students should confirm the exact academic calendar with James Cook University. As an honours program, the course may require greater self-directed study and research compared to undergraduate degrees. Students are expected to engage in regular supervision meetings and meet thesis deadlines.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$34,649 per year, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$34,649. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by James Cook University. Please note that this total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international student visa holders, nor does it cover living costs or the student visa application charge. For example, living costs in Cairns and Townsville range from approximately A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with James Cook University via their website (www.jcu.edu.au). HeadStart Academy provides indicative fee data as a guide only and is not responsible for fee changes. International students should budget for additional expenses including flights, textbooks, and personal costs.
Entry into this honours program typically requires completion of a Bachelor degree in a relevant field, with a competitive grade point average. The English language requirement is IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5-6.0 (exact bands depend on the specific pathway). James Cook University may also accept equivalent English test scores such as TOEFL or PTE. Applicants must check the specific prerequisites and credit transfer policies on the provider's website. As an end-on honours, it usually follows a three-year Bachelor degree. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable for this course; students should contact JCU's admissions office for details on recognised prior learning. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their visa. Meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent for visa advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Honours programs are research-intensive, focusing on coursework and a thesis rather than practical placements. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Many honours students engage in part-time work or research assistantships alongside their studies. While the course itself does not require work, students may benefit from volunteer or casual roles related to their field. The absence of a work component allows students to dedicate full attention to their research project. For career development, students can access JCU's career services.
This course is delivered at two James Cook University campuses in Queensland: Cairns (Smithfield) and Townsville. Cairns, known for its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, has a student population of about 5,000 international students across around 20 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Cairns: weekly rent A$300–A$400 for a one-bedroom unit, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. Townsville, a major regional city, has a similar student community with approximately 4,000 international students and 15 providers. Typical weekly rent is A$250–A$350, with comparable living expenses. Both campuses are accessible by public bus services, and JCU offers free inter-campus shuttle buses. The Cairns campus is located in Smithfield, about 20 minutes from the city centre, while the Townsville campus is in the suburb of Douglas. These locations offer a unique study environment with access to diverse ecosystems and a vibrant cultural scene.
International students must obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include providing a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered course, meeting English language proficiency, demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, and having sufficient financial capacity for tuition fees, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel. OSHC is mandatory for the visa duration and can cost between A$450 and A$600 per year for single cover. Student visa holders are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, provided the work does not interfere with study. Australia's ESOS Act and the National Code safeguard international students' rights, including complaints procedures and refund policies. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for Bachelor of Arts (Honours) [End-on] at James Cook University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers using HeadStart Academy to find courses that match your interests, level, and budget. Filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Society and Culture), and location (Queensland). 2. Apply directly to James Cook University through their online admissions portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), a supporting statement, and any other required documents. Note application deadlines; honours programs often have early closing dates. 3. If accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from JCU. Use this CoE to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have valid OSHC and meet all visa requirements before travelling. For detailed guidance, contact JCU's international admissions team.
Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact James Cook University directly for the most current information.
Bachelor of Arts (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.