Academy Course Entry Diplomas

Course Entry Diplomas

JCU offers a range of course entry diplomas for students interested in pursing a career in Business, Engineering, Health or Information Technology (IT). These one-year full-time (two-years part-time) courses* combine introductory academic subjects and first-year degree subjects which enable students to build a strong foundational knowledge in their chosen field. Upon successful completion, students will achieve a diploma qualification and the key subject knowledge and study skills they have gained can be used to gain entry into specific JCU undergraduate courses.

Course entry pathways:

Receive a hands-on introduction to the business world. This targeted pathway can prepare students to explore JCU’s Bachelor degrees in Business, Commerce or Tourism.

Explore the business realm.

Take the first step towards a diverse and innovative career in Engineering. Successful completion provides a pathway into JCU's Bachelor of Engineering (Honours).

  • For: Domestic and International students at JCU Townsville
  • Duration: 12 months full-time or part-time equivalent
  • Outcome: Upon successful completion you will obtain a diploma qualification and can transition into year two of the JCU Bachelor of Engineering (Honours).

Be ready to develop innovative engineering solutions.

Students in Mackay and Mount Isa can build the foundational academic skills and content knowledge required for JCU’s Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration]. Commence or return to university through this supportive, hands-on pathway.

  • For: Domestic students in Mackay and Mount Isa
  • Duration: 12 months full-time
  • Outcome: Upon successful completion you will obtain a diploma qualification and can transition into JCU's Bachelor of Nursing Science [Pre-Registration], should you decide to continue your studies.

Begin a career in nursing with JCU.

Be equipped to develop technical service skills that are in-demand across a range of industries. Benefit from personalised learning that can assist you to transition into JCU’s Bachelor of Information Technology.

  • For: International students at JCU Brisbane
  • Duration: 12 months full-time
  • Outcome: Upon successful completion you will obtain a diploma qualification and and can transition into year two of the JCU Bachelor of Information Technology.

Discover where an IT career can take you.

You might also be interested in:

Start your university journey with our fee-free^, flexible JCU Prep pathway. You’ll study only what you need by selecting the introductory subjects required to meet a specific course pre-requisite, develop academic skills, or both.

  • For: Domestic students
  • Duration: 3-12 months full-time, depending on your study load
  • Outcome: Entry requirements of your chosen degree+

Prepare for a degree with JCU

Gain a solid foundation for university study as you build academic skills, confidence and knowledge through this one-year (or part-time equivalent) course. You will study a range of core subjects and choose a major related to your future Bachelor's degree. Upon completion you will have a recognised qualification and the potential to transition into some JCU Bachelor degrees.+

  • For: International students
  • Duration: 12 months full-time or part-time equivalent
  • Outcome: A recognised Diploma and entry requirements of your chosen degree+

Start your university studies with support

*Part-time study only available for students studying the Diploma of Engineering [pathway].

^ Students in JCU Prep pay no course fees and are only required to pay a Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSA Fee).

+Successful completion of a Pathway program can enable students to meet the entry requirements for study areas such as Arts, Business, Law, Engineering, Nursing, Science, Information Technology, Pharmacy, and Sport and Exercise Science. For students wishing to apply to the Bachelor of Dental Surgery; Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery; Bachelor of Physiotherapy; or Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours), JCU Prep can only be used to fulfil subject pre-requisites, not ATAR entry requirements. Please contact the University to learn more.


James Cook University partners with Russo Higher Education Pty Ltd to deliver the programs available at our Brisbane campus.