Fast Facts
Location
Commencing
- Online: February, May, September
- Townsville: February, May, September
- Cairns: February, May, September
- Brisbane: February, May, September
Fees
$13,680.00+
+estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee
Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Duration
3 years full-time
or part-time equivalent
Entry Requirements
ATAR 59.4
English (Units 3/4,C)
Recommended Knowledge
Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C)
QTAC Codes
- 312029
- 312021
- 322021
- 372021
Course detail
From economics to financial management, the areas within commerce influence every industry. As you build your understanding of the foundational concepts of commerce, you’ll develop the ability to recognise financial patterns, trends in financial markets and the drivers of economic growth. With the option to specialise your studies in the area of your passion, you can graduate with confidence in your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to multiple industry contexts.
In the Bachelor of Commerce, you’ll study core subjects that will build your foundational knowledge of the concepts relevant to all areas of commerce. This commerce degree has five majors for you to choose from, with the option to select either a second major or elective subjects. Your selected major/s allow you to specialise in the areas that you want to pursue in your future career while electives allow you to broaden your knowledge and skills base.
No matter which major you choose, your studies in the Bachelor of Commerce will equip you to critically evaluate and communicate market insights. You’ll learn the importance of making data-driven decisions and develop skills in interpreting quantitative and qualitative data. As you study the key areas of commerce, you’ll develop an in-depth understanding of the factors that influence domestic and global economies and financial systems. Learn to effectively analyse market trends, the financial needs of professional and private clients, and ethical and sustainable methods of business.
Develop essential job-ready skills through the work integrated learning (WIL) capstone program. Within the program, you’ll work alongside leading commerce professionals and the network connections you’ll make have the potential to lead to further opportunities post-graduation.
Students in Townsville will have the opportunity to in the Townsville Chamber of Commerce — James Cook University Mentoring Program. In your final year, you can apply to join the program and be connected to an industry professional from the Townsville Chamber of Commerce (a JCU Alumni, where possible) who will mentor you through one-on-one sessions, virtual check-ins and mentoring events. You can look to your mentor for guidance relating to career planning, skill development, networking and job search techniques. You’ll build and strengthen your network and gain the skills and confidence necessary to excel.
Broaden your horizons and gain a global perspective by completing one semester at JCU Singapore or at one of our 52 partnering universities around the world.
Additional information
Study Bachelor of Commerce at JCU
One of the most popular programs at James Cook University is the Bachelor of Commerce. One aspect that sets this degree program apart from others is the designated Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, which allows students to gain industry experience and create a network of contacts within the commerce sector. This may prove invaluable when it comes to getting your first industry job, or later along in your career when networking can bring you employment opportunities you never thought possible.
JCU’s commerce degree in Queensland is available at three campuses and online. Choose to study at Townsville, Cairns, Brisbane or online, and there are three intakes for entry every year for each – February, May and September meaning you can accelerate your way through your Bachelor of Commerce degree without wasting time.
Taking JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce in Queensland is a time commitment of three years full time (with part-time options also available).
How is JCU’s Bachelor Degree in Commerce Structured?
JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce is a versatile choice for undergraduates who do not want to limit themselves by specialising too soon. Students will get a comprehensive foundation in the theory of commerce and through these and other core subjects, they will find their degree can be applied to a wide range of industry jobs. There are five majors to choose from, with electives to ensure students keep their breadth of knowledge relevant for multiple sectors within the finance industry.
The key skills undergraduates will learn are critical thinking and analytical skills, ensuring that graduates can accurately analyse patterns and make data-driven decisions. The course will look at assessing qualitative and quantitative data and give students an in-depth understanding of the markets and how local and global economies can be influenced.
Theory is only half the battle — practical experience is what many firms are looking for, which is why JCU has implemented Work Integrated Learning, so that along with a Bachelor of Commerce, graduates can show real industry work experience. It is also worth mentioning that JCU has launched a special mentoring programme for students in Townsville that links a student with an industry professional in the Townsville Chamber of Commerce.
For those who are hankering after some international experience, JCU has an exchange program, allowing Bachelor of Commerce undergraduates to study for one semester at JCU Singapore or at one of the 52 other universities partnered with James Cook University.
Career Opportunities with a Commerce Degree
Whether you aim to go into economics or whether international trade is much more your thing, your Bachelor's degree in Commerce will have you well-prepared for the workplace. Visit the main course page to discover more about the majors and electives that are offered as part of this degree.
On the main course page, you will also find information on the prerequisites for entry onto this course, whether you are a local student or an international student. For those who may not be automatically eligible, there is also information on alternative pathways that JCU can offer to bridge the gap between the qualifications you hold and those you need. Visit the main course page now.
Hide additional information
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment,and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Bachelor of Commerce.
Majors
You can choose from six majors. A major is your chosen area of specialisation. While all majors are available Online (or externally), not all majors are available face-to-face at all campuses. The handbook provides details about the subjects you can study within each major and the campus availability for each major.
Banking and Finance
Study funds management, financial markets, and risk management. You will learn the different approaches to managing financial institutions, including commercial banks, rural cooperatives, and microfinance institutions.
Develop the skills to help businesses develop and thrive, whether they're government, non-government, private, or not-for-profit organisations. With an understanding of international finance and sustainable economic growth, employers will value your theoretical and practical knowledge.
Economics
Develop the skills to predict the behaviour of market participants, including governments, competing businesses, and consumers.
Explore drivers of economic growth and government policy options to shape that growth, as well as decision-making tools for managers and how to conduct cost-benefit analysis. You will gain knowledge of economics at the individual level by exploring consumer decision-making and the behavioural foundations of those decisions.
Financial Advising
Expand your decision making and analytical skills with Financial Advising through the Bachelor of Commerce at JCU. You’ll be equipped to recognize financial information and assist people to achieve their financial goals. Learn to identify potential issues for a client, viable investment opportunities, and practical strategies ensure their financial stability.
You can choose from a variety of specialisations and focuses as a financial advisor, giving you flexibility in a career with job security.
Financial Management
Understand different approaches to managing the finances of businesses effectively and efficiently. You will learn business modelling, investment portfolio management, financial risk management and multinational business finance.
With financial management skills that are transferable to most industries, you can forge your own career path. Combine this major with Accounting, Economics, or Business Intelligence and Information Systems to strengthen your skill set.
International Trade
Gain a global perspective and develop analytical, communication and critical thinking skills to pursue a career that crosses borders.
Build a strong understanding of the fundamentals of finance and international trade law. Take your place in the global boardroom with skills to explain strategic, interpersonal and psychological aspects of business negotiation. Learn how to network and influence stakeholders with creative and innovative thinking in the communication of complex business analyses.
In an increasingly globalised world, your ability to evaluate and analyse opportunities in international trade will make you a valued employee around the world.
This major is only offered at the Singapore campus.
Honours
Honours is available in each discipline as additional 24 credit points of study. Please refer to the Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Handbook for eligibility information.
Gain an understanding of foundational concepts of commerce and pursue your passion in one or two key commerce areas. You can specialise in a range of areas, including economics, international trade and financial management.
Your skills are relevant to a large number of industries as a commerce graduate. Job opportunities depend on what major you decide to specialise in. You will have the ability to understand the importance of data-driven decision making - a quality highly valued by employers.
Depending on your chosen major(s), potential careers could include:
- Business manager
- Commercial and taxation law specialist
- Corporate financial manager
- Data analyst
- Economist
- Expert consultant
- Financial analyst
- Financial controller
- Foreign exchange trader
- Investment banker/manager
- Risk manager
- Stockbroker
Entry score threshold
These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2022. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in June each year. Meeting the threshold doesn't guarantee admission.
ATAR/Selection Rank: 59.40
Entry score range
This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the Bachelor of Commerce for Semester 1, 2022. The table includes offers deferred to Semester 1, 2022 which may have been assessed using the entry score threshold of an earlier year.
JCU Townsville
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | 90.65 | 96.65 |
Median | 77.7 | 79.7 |
Lowest | 59 | 61 |
JCU Cairns
Without adjustments | With adjustments* | |
|---|---|---|
Highest | <5 | <5 |
Median | <5 | <5 |
Lowest | <5 | <5 |
Notes:
<5 – indicates less than 5 OP/ATAR-based offers made.
* Refer to Adjustment Factors
Find out more about who you might study with by viewing this course’s student profile.
Adjustment factors
James Cook University applies bonus ranks under the Regional Preference Scheme and QTAC’s Educational Access Scheme (EAS). Learn more about JCU’s adjustment factors.
Handbook year | Information valid for students commencing in 2023 |
Course code | 20710 |
Course type | Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) |
Professional accreditation status | The Accounting Major for this course is jointly accredited by CPA Australia and the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ). Students who complete the accredited award may join either or both of the professional accounting bodies (CPA Australia, and/or the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand). To become full members of the accounting profession and practise as an accountant, they must then complete the professional programs of whichever body they join and undertake the required number of years of professional experience. The Financial Advising Major was approved on the 1st of July 2022 as noted in the Corporations (Relevant Providers Degrees, Qualifications and Courses Standard) Amendment Determination 2022 legislative document here: https://www.legislation.gov.au Students must pass the financial adviser exam to comply with the professional standards and complete a professional year before they are fully qualified. |
Owner | Academy |
College | Business, Law and Governance |
Award Requirements
Admission Requirements
Course pre-requisites | English (Units 3/4,C) Recommended: Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4) |
Minimum English language proficiency requirements | Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 1 – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy. |
Academic Requirements for Course Completion
Credit points | 72 credit points as per course structure |
Additional course rules | A maximum of 30 credit points may be taken at level 1 A minimum of 18 credit points must be taken at level 2 A minimum of 18 credit points must be taken at level 3 or higher |
Course learning outcomes | JCU graduates are committed to lifelong learning, intellectual development, and to the display of exemplary personal, professional and ethical standards. They have a sense of their place in the tropics and are charged with professional, community, and environmental responsibility. JCU graduates appreciate the need to embrace and be acquainted with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia. They are committed to reconciliation, diversity and sustainability. They exhibit a willingness to lead and to contribute to the intellectual, environmental, cultural, economic and social challenges of regional, national, and international communities of the tropics. On successful completion of the Bachelor of Commerce a graduate will be able to:
|
Inherent Requirements
Inherent Requirements | Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University's learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please visit: Bachelor of Commerce. |
Reasonable adjustments | All JCU students have the opportunity to demonstrate, with reasonable adjustments where applicable, the inherent requirements for their course. For more information please visit: Student Disability Policy and Procedure. |
Course Structure – All majors except Accounting
CORE SUBJECTS
Level 1
BU1002:03 Accounting for Decision Making
BU1003:03 Principles of Economics
BU1007:03 Principles of Data Analysis for Business
BU1104:03 Introduction to Management Concepts and Application
BU1105:03 Professional and Academic Skills for Business
BU1112:03 Business Law
Level 2
BX2014:03 Principles of Finance
Level 3
BU3101:03 Professional Internship or BU3102:03 Multi-Disciplinary Project or BU3103:03 Independent Project
OPTIONS
Select a Major from Table A
PLUS
Select one of the following options:
OPTION 1 (Second Major)
Select a second major. Please refer to Table A for possible double major combinations.
or
OPTION 2 (Electives)
Select 6 credit points of level 2 subjects
Plus
Select 6 credit points of any undergraduate subjects
Plus
Select either
Option A: (Electives)
Select 6 credit points of any undergraduate subjects
Plus
Select 6 credit points of Level 2 or 3 subjects (BU3104:03 Internship B is recommended for students interested in completing 250 hours of internship placement in one study period or over two consecutive study periods)
OR
Option B: (Pathway to Emerging Leaders Program [MBA 2-Year]) conditional on completion of 33 credit points with a minimum GPA 5.5 and approval of MBA Course Coordinator. (Not available to JCU Singapore students)
CO5124:03 Data Analysis and Decision Modelling
LB5203:03 Sustainable Enterprise
LB5233:03 Innovation and Entrepreneurship
LB5241:03 Leadership Futures
TABLE A (Majors)
Credit points in major | 24 credit points |
MAJOR | AVAILABLE AT | ALLOWABLE SECOND MAJORS *Not all second majors are available in all locations. Please check campus availability of second majors |
JCU Singapore External | International Trade (JCU Singapore only) | |
JCU Singapore JCU Townsville External | International Trade (JCU Singapore only) | |
JCU Townsville External | ||
JCU Singapore JCU Townsville External | International Trade (JCU Singapore only) | |
JCU Singapore |
Course Structure – Accounting major
CORE SUBJECTS
Level 1
BU1002:03 Accounting for Decision Making
BU1003:03 Principles of Economics
BU1007:03 Principles of Data Analysis for Business
BU1104:03 Introduction to Management Concepts and Application
BU1105:03 Professional and Academic Skills for Business
BU1112:03 Business Law
Level 2
BX2014:03 Principles of Finance
Level 3
BU3101:03 Professional Internship or BU3102:03 Multi-Disciplinary Project or BU3103:03 Independent Project
PLUS
Select Accounting Major (see Table B for details)
OPTIONS
Select one of the following options:
OPTION 1 (Second Major)
Select a second major. Please refer to Table B for possible double major combinations.
Note: there are no allowable second majors for students in JCU Brisbane
or
Option 2 (Electives)
Select 3 credit points of level 2 subjects
Plus
Select 6 credit points of any undergraduate subjects
Plus
Select either
Option A: (Electives)
Select 6 credit points of any undergraduate subjects
Plus
Select 6 credit points of Level 2 or 3 subjects (BU3104:03 Internship B is recommended for students interested in completing 250 hours of internship placement in one study period or over two consecutive study periods)
OR
Option B: (Pathway to Emerging Leaders Program [MBA 2-Year] conditional on completion of 33 credit points with a minimum GPA 5.5 and approval of MBA Course Coordinator. (Not available to JCU Singapore students)
CO5124:03 Data Analysis and Decision Modelling
LB5203:03 Sustainable Enterprise
LB5233:03 Innovation and Entrepreneurship
LB5241:03 Leadership Futures
TABLE B (Accounting and Accounting Second Majors)
Credit points in major | 27 credit points (second majors are 21 credit points) |
MAJOR | AVAILABLE AT | Notes*Not all second majors are available in all locations. |
JCU Brisbane JCU Cairns JCU Singapore JCU Townsville External | Business Law (JCU Townsville and External only) Economics (JCU Singapore, JCU Townsville and External only) Financial Advising (JCU Townsville and External only) Financial Management (JCU Singapore, JCU Townsville and External only) |
Location
COURSE AVAILABLE AT | NOTES |
JCU Brisbane | |
JCU Cairns | |
JCU Singapore | |
JCU Townsville | |
External |
Candidature
Expected time to complete | 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent |
Maximum time to complete | 8 years |
Maximum leave of absence | 1 year |
Progression
Course progression | Must successfully complete 12 credit points at level 1 before attempting any level 3 subject. This course has a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) program culminating in a third year core subject. Students must successfully complete the prescribed WIL preparation modules and quizzes to be eligible to apply for a WIL capstone subject. To meet eligibility for the Pathway to Emerging Leaders MBA [2-Year] option, students must complete 33 credit points of subjects with a minimum GPA of 5.5 and receive approval from the MBA Coordinator. |
Course includes mandatory professional placement(s) | No |
Special assessment | Nil |
Professional accreditation | The Accounting Major for this course is jointly accredited by CPA Australia and the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ). Students who complete the accredited award may join either or both of the professional accounting bodies (CPA Australia, and/or the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand). To become full members of the accounting profession and practise as an accountant, they must then complete the professional programs of whichever body they join and undertake the required number of years of professional experience. The Financial Advising major for this course was approved on the 1st of July 2022 as noted in the Corporations (Relevant Providers Degrees, Qualifications and Courses Standard) Amendment Determination 2022 legislative document here: https://www.legislation.gov.au To become a fully qualified financial adviser, students must pass the financial adviser exam to comply with the professional standards and complete a professional year. View the ASIC website for more information. |
Supplementary exam for | A student who has failed a single subject towards the award in their final teaching period and who gained 40% or more of the marks for that subject, may be granted a supplementary examination in that subject. However, if that subject is required for accreditation, then the criteria specified by that accreditation will apply. |
Credit
Eligibility | Students may apply for credit transfer for previous tertiary study in accordance with the Credit Transfer Procedure. |
Maximum allowed | 48 credit points |
Currency | Credit will be granted only for studies completed in the 10 years prior to the commencement of this course. |
Expiry | Credit gained for any subject shall be cancelled 18 years after the date of the examination upon which the credit is based if, by then, the student has not completed the course of study prescribed for the degree. |
Other restrictions | Nil |
Award Details
Award title | BACHELOR OF COMMERCE |
Approved abbreviation | BCom |
Inclusion of majors on | Majors will appear on the testamur |
Exit with lesser award | Students who have completed 24 credit points of their course award requirements, and withdraw from or fail to meet the requirements for progression in the later years, may be eligible for the award of Diploma of Tertiary Studies. |
Course articulation | Students who complete this course with Option 2 B (Pathway to Emerging Leaders Program MBA [2-Year]) are eligible for entry to the Master of Business Administration [2-Year] and may be granted 24 credit points of credit. |
Special awards | Students may receive an Award of Recognition in accordance with the Recognition of Academic Excellence Procedure |
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD13,680.00
A Student Services and Amenities fee is payable per subject up to a maximum amount per year.
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
An ATAR is the score required for entry into most undergraduate courses. If you are not a Year 12 school leaver or do not have an ATAR, you can be assigned an equivalent score. Scores are calculated from previous study that you might have completed, either secondary, tertiary or vocational, or previous paid employment experience.
JCU offers pathway courses to help you move into a degree. Pathway courses provide you with an individualised study plan and specialised support as you transition to university.
Contact us to find out more.
Note the course QTAC code for the location you've chosen. You'll need to enter it as part of your QTAC application.
Application dates vary between courses, whether they're delivered in semester, trimester or carousel study modes. View our Application due dates page for more information.
ATAR score is indicative only. Entry scores will be finalised in the major offer round.
Real stories
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Alumni
Siddarth Roche
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)
I gained real-world connections and deep financial knowledge in this course, which provided the right formula for success in my job search. The small classes provide an excellent opportunity for stimulating discussions on global economic trends but also for pioneering research in the Honours component.
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Alumni
Suhithri Paranamanage
Bachelor of Commerce
I chose a regional university rather than a major city because the help you receive is personal and tailor-made for you. The lecturers know you by name and introduce you to their professional networks. For me, the biggest strength of the course is the Work Integrated Learning modules paired with the internships.
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Alumni
Gresham Congoo
Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting
I work for PwC’s Indigenous Consulting, which is a majority-owned and staffed Indigenous consulting business. It has offices all over Australia. It is partly owned by PwC, which is one of the largest professional services firms in the world. I’ve been with PwC’s Indigenous Consulting for just over five years now.
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Lecturer
Jodie Maxfield
College of Business, Law and Governance
JCU’s Bachelor of Commerce offers practical, hands-on experience through work-integrated learning. We have amazing support mechanisms available, such as first year coordinators and mentors who will help students get started and succeed in their studies.
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Employer
Paul Sapelli
Director - Jessups (Audit and Assurance)
Thanks to JCU’s work-integrated learning program, we appreciate that students are work-ready by the time they graduate. And, being a local firm with offices in Cairns and Townsville, it makes perfect sense for us to source our audit graduates from JCU’s North Queensland campuses.