Why choose to study in Tropical North Queensland?
Living and studying in North Queensland is a truly unparalleled experience. Enjoy hands-on learning opportunities in unique and spectacular locations, including UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll explore, discover, grow and make unforgettable memories.
Discover the best of Australia
Our region is one of the world’s leading hubs for coastal and tropical science and environmental studies. So, if you’re interested in the future of the planet, there are few better places to study.
There is no place on Earth like the North and Far North regions of Queensland, which feature an extraordinary combination of reefs, rainforests, significant coastal, mountain and outback ecosystems, and Indigenous centres.
North Queensland offers a unique combination of:
- Tropical climate
- Sustainable environments
- Multicultural population.
In addition to the sunshine and picturesque natural wonders, North Queensland also has a significantly lower cost of living than many metropolitan centres. JCU is home to international students from more than 108 countries and we are passionate about giving students from all over the world opportunities for an exceptional education.
“It is very motivating that JCU has such a strong focus on environmental issues and sustainability.”
“It has been exciting to take subjects here as they focus on tropical and Australian conditions. The location is a highlight in terms of nature experiences, the coast, the rainforest, waterfalls, weather and temperature, housing prices, and travel opportunities.
If you have a passion for tropical biology, marine science or other environmental studies, I would definitely recommend JCU. Or if you are just adventurous and want to have an experience of a lifetime! JCU has an incredibly good learning environment, where everyone seems very engaged in what they are working with and learning about.”
Anne Roenningen
Study Abroad student – Norway
Maximise study-life balance
Australia's tropical North Queensland is ripe with lush environments, diverse communities and one-of-a-kind experiences. Students in Townsville and Cairns often spend their down time hiking on fun or challenging trails, snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef and enjoying a vibrant city life.
Enjoy our famous beaches, where white sand and crystal-clear waters await you. You may even see some of our unique native Australian animals! Have fun and get ready for an adventure — all at JCU.
Explore the region
North of Townsville is the Paluma Range National Park with Crystal Creek and to the south lies Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. Between Cairns and Townsville lies the ruggedly beautiful Hinchinbrook Island National Park.
Just west of Cairns lies the agriculturally rich Atherton Tablelands and to the northwest the Gulf Savannah region with its fringing mountain ranges and wide-open spaces. Cape York Peninsula occupies Queensland’s most northern corner and has enormous environmental diversity of great interest to scientists and visitors alike. Further north are the beautiful Torres Strait Islands, which have a unique history and rich Indigenous culture.