Bachelor of Science (Honours) (CRICOS course code 113432C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by James Cook University over 4 years. This program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in a related field and wish to deepen their knowledge through advanced coursework and a research project. Located in Cairns, Queensland, James Cook University is a government-owned institution with a strong focus on tropical sciences and sustainability. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00117J), JCU offers international students a high-quality education in a unique environmental setting. This page provides detailed information about fees, entry requirements, work components, and how to apply for this course.
Bachelor of Science (Honours) (CRICOS course code 113432C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) offered by James Cook University. The program falls under the field of Natural and Physical Sciences (broad field 01) and is classified under Other Natural and Physical Sciences (narrow field 0199). As an honours-level qualification, it provides students with advanced theoretical and practical skills in scientific research, critical analysis, and problem-solving. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, industry, or further postgraduate study. The course is delivered at the JCU Cairns campus in Smithfield, Queensland.
While specific syllabi are set by James Cook University, typical honours programs in Natural and Physical Sciences involve advanced coursework in specialized areas such as tropical biology, marine science, environmental management, or geosciences, followed by a substantial research project or thesis. Students develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, and independent research. The program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in research institutions, government agencies, or private sector R&D. Given JCU's location in Far North Queensland, the program often leverages the region's unique biodiversity and ecosystems.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Science (Honours) has a duration of 4 years (208 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time on campus. The program may involve both coursework and research components, with flexible scheduling to accommodate laboratory and field work.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$180,378, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$180,378. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. Fees are set by James Cook University and may change. Always confirm current fees on the JCU website before applying. For a breakdown of typical living costs in Cairns, refer to our city guides.
Entry into a Bachelor Honours Degree typically requires completion of a relevant bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) with a high grade point average. For international students, English language proficiency is required: an IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Specific prerequisites vary by discipline. James Cook University may also consider prior learning or work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — contact JCU for details.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (approximately 100 total hours). The exact number of hours per week is not specified on the CRICOS register, but it is structured as a work-integrated learning experience. This may involve an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement related to the student's field of study. Such components provide practical exposure and enhance employability. Students should confirm the nature and timing of the work component with James Cook University.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) is delivered at the James Cook University campus in Cairns — Smithfield, Queensland. Cairns is a major city in Far North Queensland with a tropical climate and a strong focus on tourism, agriculture, and marine research. The city is home to several CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population. Living costs in Cairns are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around A$150–A$250, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. The Smithfield campus is accessible by bus from the city centre.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. Financial capacity evidence is also required. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and cannot provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Science (Honours) at James Cook University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that James Cook University (CRICOS 00117J) is registered to deliver this program. 2. Apply directly to JCU: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on the JCU website. Submit your application and any required documents (transcripts, references, etc.). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, JCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
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Bachelor of Science (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.