Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) (CRICOS course code 113584J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by James Cook University over 3 years. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become competent pharmacists, meeting the healthcare needs of communities in Australia and beyond. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00117J), it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. James Cook University offers this program at its campuses in Cairns and Townsville, Queensland, providing a unique learning environment focused on tropical health and regional communities. The course combines theoretical study with practical work-integrated learning, including a 49-week work component. With an indicative total fee of A$182,321, this degree prepares graduates for registration as pharmacists in Australia. The field of education is Pharmacy (0605), covering pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, and pharmacy practice. Graduates will be eligible to apply for registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia after completing required internship and examinations. Read on to learn about the curriculum, entry requirements, and how to apply.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) (CRICOS course code 113584J) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) delivered by James Cook University (CRICOS 00117J), a government-owned institution. The program has a CRICOS-registered duration of 3 years (156 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards for international education. Data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which lists 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses to international students. The ESOS Act protects the rights of international students studying CRICOS-registered courses.
This Bachelor Honours Degree falls under the field of Health (06) and specifically Pharmacy (060501). The curriculum covers advanced topics including pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, pharmacotherapy, and pharmacy practice. Students develop skills in medication management, patient counselling, and healthcare collaboration. The honours component involves a research project, enabling students to contribute to evidence-based practice. The program aligns with the standards set by the Pharmacy Board of Australia, preparing graduates for professional practice. Learning outcomes include the ability to apply scientific knowledge to clinical decision-making, communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals, and demonstrate ethical and legal responsibilities in pharmacy practice.
The program has a CRICOS-registered duration of 3 years (156 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. It is a full-time course designed for international students. The course structure includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and a significant work-integrated learning component. Students are expected to commit to full-time study, with additional hours for self-directed learning and placement.
Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) are indicative only and set by James Cook University. As per the CRICOS register, the tuition fee is A$182,321, with no non-tuition fees specified. The estimated total fee is A$182,321. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and visa application charges. These are not included in the CRICOS fee. Always confirm current fees directly with James Cook University via their website (www.jcu.edu.au).
International students must meet academic and English language requirements. Indicative English requirement: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications should be equivalent to Australian Year 12 or completion of a recognized foundation program. Applicants may need to demonstrate prerequisites in science subjects (e.g., chemistry, biology). For specific entry requirements, refer to James Cook University's website. Foundation or pathway options may be available — consult the provider. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 49 weeks, totaling approximately 676 hours (hours per week not specified on CRICOS). This involves professional placement in pharmacy settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, or other healthcare facilities. The work component allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, develop clinical skills, and build professional networks. It is a requirement for graduation and may contribute to internship hours needed for pharmacist registration. Students are typically supported by the university to find suitable placements.
The course is delivered at two locations: - James Cook University - Cairns (Smithfield, QLD) - James Cook University - Townsville (TOWNSVILLE, QLD)
Both cities are in tropical North Queensland. Cairns has a population of over 150,000 and is a major tourist hub, with a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Townsville is larger (population ~180,000) and serves as a regional centre. JCU's campuses offer modern facilities, including pharmacy simulation labs and libraries. International students can access public transport and campus services. Queensland has over 600 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa - Financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel
Work rights: Up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not offer immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to secure your place: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Honours Degree), field (Health), and location (Queensland). Compare providers and courses. 2. Apply directly to James Cook University: Meet entry requirements, provide English test scores (e.g., IELTS), submit academic transcripts, and comply with application deadlines. Apply via the university's application portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE from JCU. Use this to apply for your visa, paying the visa application charge and arranging OSHC. Allow ample processing time.
Studying pharmacy in Australia offers excellent career prospects, but it's important to consider factors such as: - Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Australian Pharmacy Council and leads to registration. - Work component: The 49-week placement is intensive; you'll need to balance study and work. - Location: Cairns and Townsville have a slower pace of life compared to big cities. Consider climate, cost of living, and access to healthcare facilities. - Career outcomes: Pharmacists are in demand, especially in regional areas. Graduates may work in community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, or research. - English proficiency: High level required for patient communication. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you make an informed decision. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Start your application journey today by following the steps above. Explore James Cook University's profile on HeadStart Academy for more details.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (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.