Townsville and Cairns, Northern Queensland

With its two main campuses located in tropical North Queensland, James Cook University (JCU) is a unique and diverse setting for a university. No other university in the world is located beside two World Heritage listed natural wonders - the Great Barrier Reef and the world heritage listed rainforests of the Wet Tropics. Named after the eighteenth century British navigator and explorer Captain James Cook, the University was established in 1970, two hundred years after Cook charted the eastern seaboard of Australia.

The main JCU campuses are located in the northern Queensland cities of Townsville and Cairns. With a combined 14,000 students, including more than 1,400 international students from 105 countries worldwide, JCU is known for its good staff-student ratios, effective support services and friendly campuses. Additionally, JCU students enjoy first class facilities, highly qualified teaching staff, and courses that are informed by discovery.

JCU's wide range of courses allows students to select from over 170 undergraduate and over 120 postgraduate programs, many of which lead to professional qualifications. As well, a growing range of joint degree programs is offered and the University works with employers and industry to ensure that its degrees are relevant to current and emerging needs.

JCU is a high-ranking research university. The University makes the most of its tropical location and has an international reputation for its expertise in matters relating to the tropics. JCU's specialist research facilities are outstanding - from island and rainforest field stations and the latest technologies for computing and scientific research to archives, museums and historical collections. JCU ranks in the top third of all Australian universities in terms of competitive Australian Research Council funding.

With northern Queensland's emphasis on outdoor activities, the region offers many activities to students, including water sports, scuba diving, fishing, visiting islands or exploring the rainforests, tablelands and the outback. Additionally, the warm climate makes winter clothing unnecessary.

James Cook University website: www.jcu.edu.au and www.isc.jcu.edu.au

To learn about the opportunities available to you and to receive more information about James Cook University, contact OzTREKK today!