Bachelor Honours Degree Science Full Time

Bachelor of Science (Honours) [End-on]

at James Cook University · Townsville, Queensland

CRICOS course code

085388E

CRICOS provider code

00117J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$42,477 total

Per year

A$42,477/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) [End-on] at James Cook University in Townsville is designed for students who have completed a Bachelor of Science or related undergraduate degree and wish to deepen their expertise through advanced study and research. This one-year AQF Level 8 qualification builds on undergraduate foundations, offering a blend of specialised coursework and an individual research thesis or project. The Honours programme fosters advanced knowledge in scientific theory, research methodology, and critical analysis, guiding students as they develop their own original scientific research.

Students enrol in a series of advanced units of study, with credit points distributed between research, discipline-specific electives, and sometimes professional skills workshops. A defining feature is the Honours thesis: an independent research project undertaken under academic supervision, allowing students to contribute new insights to their scientific field. Work-integrated learning or placements may be part of the experience, particularly for students whose research involves engagement with industry, government, or local communities in North Queensland and broader Australian scientific networks.

Graduates gain skills in analytical thinking, scientific communication, project management, and data interpretation. The programme particularly suits those who aspire toward research or technical roles, or wish to progress to higher degree research such as a Masters or PhD. The Townsville setting provides opportunities to interact with tropical science organisations, environmental research centres, and regional industries, supporting diverse options for project focus and professional networking.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or equivalent), and should review the official JCU page for details. Students have work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Refer to the official CRICOS register and the university website to confirm fee and unit details.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Research scientist or technician in Australian universities, CSIRO, and government agencies
Laboratory manager or technical officer in healthcare, environmental, or agricultural sectors
Scientific communicator or policy adviser in science advocacy or government bodies
Project coordinator in natural resources, environmental consultancies, or the private sector
Preparation for higher degree research, including Masters or Doctoral study in science disciplines

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Science (Honours) [End-on] at James Cook University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$42,477 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Research scientist or technician in Australian universities, CSIRO, and government agenciesLaboratory manager or technical officer in healthcare, environmental, or agricultural sectorsScientific communicator or policy adviser in science advocacy or government bodiesProject coordi...

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