Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) (CRICOS course code 094679G) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by James Cook University over 4 years. This program is designed to prepare you for a rewarding career as a speech pathologist, helping individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider JCU, CRICOS 00117J), it meets Australian standards for international students. Located in Townsville, Queensland, the course combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical placements, ensuring you graduate with real-world experience. Whether you're a domestic or international student, this degree opens doors to professional practice in Australia and globally.
This program falls under the field of Rehabilitation Therapies, specifically Speech Pathology (field of education 061707). You'll explore anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, linguistics, communication disorders, and evidence-based intervention strategies. The honours component includes a research project, developing your analytical and critical thinking skills. Graduates are equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, voice, fluency, and swallowing difficulties across all ages.
The course is 4 years (208 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is expected; part-time options may be available but could affect visa conditions. The program includes a significant work-integrated learning component.
Indicative tuition fee: A$195,809. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total cost: A$195,809. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with James Cook University at www.jcu.edu.au. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For guidance on budgeting, refer to the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements.
General entry requires completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent with prerequisites in English, biology, and chemistry or physics. English language proficiency: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0 (specific requirements vary; check with JCU). Other pathway options may be available through foundation programs. Always verify entry requirements directly with James Cook University.
Yes, the course includes a mandatory work component: 62 weeks of clinical placement (approximately 748 total hours). This is an industry placement where you apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings under supervision. It's a crucial part of developing clinical competencies required for registration as a speech pathologist.
This course is delivered at James Cook University's Townsville campus in Queensland. Townsville is a vibrant regional city with a population of about 180,000, offering affordable living costs compared to major cities. Indicative weekly rent: A$150-250, groceries A$70-100, and public transport accessible via bus. The campus is within reach of the city centre. Over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers exist in Australia, with many in Queensland; Townsville has several universities and colleges.
Consider your preference for a smaller city with a tropical climate and strong community feel. Townsville offers a lower cost of living and access to outdoor activities like the Great Barrier Reef. However, job opportunities for student work may be more limited compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The university provides support services for international students, including academic and career advice.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Financial capacity should cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) at James Cook University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm your chosen course is CRICOS-registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and other documents. Check entry requirements and application deadlines on the James Cook University website.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you receive your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of financial capacity, OSHC, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your journey? Explore James Cook University on HeadStart Academy and take the first step towards becoming a speech pathologist.
Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) 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.