Master of Marine Biology (CRICOS course code 107243C) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by James Cook University over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 program is designed for graduates seeking advanced knowledge in marine science, with a focus on Australia’s unique marine ecosystems. Located in Townsville, Queensland – home to the Great Barrier Reef – James Cook University is a government-funded, CRICOS-registered provider (00117J) with world-class marine research facilities. The course includes a work-integrated learning component and prepares students for careers in research, conservation, and marine management. All information on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – free, no referral fees, and over 26,000 courses covered.
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Master of Marine Biology (CRICOS 107243C) is a postgraduate coursework degree at Masters level (AQF 9) offered by James Cook University. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. With a duration of 104 weeks (2 years), the program is taught in English and leads to a single qualification (no dual award). The field of education is Natural and Physical Sciences (01), specifically Biological Sciences (0109) with a specialisation in Marine Science (010907). This degree equips students with advanced skills in marine biology, ecology, and resource management, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical field and laboratory work. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
As a Marine Science program at Masters level, the curriculum covers advanced topics in marine biology, including oceanography, marine ecology, conservation biology, and quantitative methods. Students typically undertake core subjects in research design and data analysis, followed by specialised electives such as coral reef ecology, fisheries science, or marine policy. The course often includes a research project or thesis component, allowing students to investigate a marine science question under expert supervision. Practical skills are developed through fieldwork in diverse marine environments – from mangroves to the Great Barrier Reef. James Cook University is renowned for its marine science expertise, and graduates emerge with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities applicable to government, industry, and academia.
The Master of Marine Biology is a full-time course lasting 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification – no dual or joint degrees. The study mode is face-to-face at the Townsville campus, with potential fieldwork components. Part-time options may be available for domestic students but international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must generally maintain full-time enrolment. The structured timeline includes a work-integrated learning placement of 1 week, providing real-world exposure. HeadStart Academy advises that course duration is set by the provider; always confirm current delivery schedules with James Cook University.
Tuition fees for the Master of Marine Biology are A$98,924 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, field trip costs) are estimated at A$1,000, bringing the indicative total to A$99,924. Please note: these fees are set by James Cook University and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For current fees and a detailed fee schedule, visit James Cook University’s official website (www.jcu.edu.au). HeadStart Academy provides fee information as a guide only; always confirm directly with the institution.
International applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant science field (e.g., marine biology, biology, environmental science) with a minimum GPA as determined by James Cook University. English language proficiency is required – an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.0) is commonly accepted. Equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE may also be recognised. Some applicants may need to complete a Graduate Diploma or bridging program if their prior study is not directly related. Foundation or pathway options are available through James Cook University’s pathway programs; consult the provider for specific requirements. Note that entry requirements are set by the institution and may change. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility – contact the university or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning (WIL) component of 1 week, with approximately 20 total hours (hours per week not specified on CRICOS). The placement is typically an industry internship, research project in a marine setting, or a placement with an environmental agency. WIL provides practical experience, networking opportunities, and application of academic knowledge to real-world challenges. Students should budget for any associated travel or accommodation costs. The exact nature of the work component is determined by James Cook University; contact the faculty for details. This component enhances employability and is a valuable part of the degree.
The course is delivered at James Cook University’s Townsville campus in Townsville, Queensland. Townsville is a vibrant coastal city with a population of over 180,000 and is a hub for marine research thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. The city hosts several CRICOS-registered providers and has a student population of around 20,000. Living costs are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$40. Bus services connect the city to the university campus. Townsville offers a warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and strong support services for international students. Prospective students should consider whether the city’s size and climate suit their preferences.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, with unlimited work during scheduled breaks. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, acceptance into a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). OSHC is mandatory – policies from providers like Medibank or Allianz cost around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. The Department of Home Affairs processes visa applications; processing times vary. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for the latest rules. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, including tuition fee protection and refund policies.
Applying for the Master of Marine Biology at James Cook University is straightforward: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, location, and field. Confirm that James Cook University (CRICOS 00117J) and this course (107243C) meet your goals. 2. Apply directly to the institution – Visit www.jcu.edu.au, check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts, English test scores, and any required documents. Observe application deadlines (typically semester-based). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, you’ll get a CoE, which you need for the Subclass 500 visa application. Prepare evidence of finances, OSHC, and GTE statements. Lodge your application online via ImmiAccount.
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Master of Marine Biology 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.