O what a week!

More than 3000 students are set to start at JCU this semester, up six per cent on the previous year, with enrolments greater than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The University will welcome 2086 students this semester in Townsville alone, an increase of 13 per cent when compared to Semester Two last year.

New students will also begin their studies at JCU’s campuses in Cairns, Mackay and Mt Isa as well as online.

International student numbers have also been boosted, with more than 370 students starting their studies at JCU this semester - a more than four-fold increase when compared to same time last year.

JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs said he is delighted with the strong number of students choosing JCU.

“JCU continues to be a university of choice for students locally, nationally and internationally,” he said.

“The latest figures are a reflection of that, and our courses are in demand across a wide range of disciplines.”

Students will take part in several activities during O Week at JCU’s Bebegu Yumba campus in Douglas, Townsville, including Market Day, course presentations and workshops.

Hundreds of students are also set to attend a Welcome to Uni lunch at Central Plaza on Tuesday, with free food, entertainment and plenty of prizes to be won.

That will be followed by JCU’s ‘Uni Start’ course on Wednesday, which provides students with advice and tips on transitioning to university life prior to classes starting next week.

Prof Biggs said it is an exciting time for the campus, as students take the first step in their career journey.

“We are determined to help students reach their academic goals while studying and their professional goals once they graduate,” he said.

“There’s never been a better time to enrol at JCU.”