Study Engineering
Design the future, today
Choose from 6 majors
Including Maritime Engineering
Save up to 81% on course fees
with a Commonwealth Supported Place1
High earning potential
Majors with average salaries ranging $115 – $135k2
- Gain real-world experience through twelve weeks of accredited industry placements, ensuring you are work-ready by the time you graduate.
- Learn in high-tech laboratories and a dedicated makerspace, and apply your skills in the field across North Queensland’s unique environments.
- Tailor your degree with majors in Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Electronic, Electronic Systems and Internet of Things, Maritime Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
- Study in small classes and receive guidance from lecturers and mentors who are experienced engineers with global project experience.
- Graduate with an Engineers Australia-accredited qualification recognised in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa.
Fast facts
Location: Cairns, Townsville
Starts: January, September
Entry requirements:* ATAR: 70
Recommended knowledge: English (Units 3/4,C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4,C)
*This web page is intended as a general guide for domestic students commencing 2026 or later. Prospective domestic students and all international applicants should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and the availability of courses. Information is correct at the time of publishing. James Cook University reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirement without prior notice.
Professional accreditation
JCU’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) is accredited by Engineers Australia, except for the Electrical and Electronic Engineering major in Cairns, which holds provisional accreditation.
Majors
- Chemical Engineering – Townsville
- Civil Engineering – Townsville
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering – Cairns and Townsville
- Electronic Systems and Internet of Things (IoT) Engineering – Cairns
- Maritime Engineering (Pathway to the University of Tasmania) – Cairns (Years 1 and 2 only)
- Mechanical Engineering – Townsville
What career possibilities are there?
JCU Engineering graduates work across diverse industries, with each major opening up different pathways. Chemical Engineering can lead to roles in environmental science, water treatment, manufacturing and materials development. Civil Engineering prepares you for infrastructure projects such as buildings, transport networks, dams and mines. Electrical and Electronic Engineering offers opportunities in energy, communications, mining, agriculture and medical technology. If you specialise in Electronic Systems and IoT, you’ll be equipped to design integrated technologies for smart cities, healthcare, automation and environmental monitoring. Maritime Engineering can lead to roles in vessel and marine infrastructure design, defence, offshore energy, ocean research and specialist sectors such as reef tourism and commercial fishing. Mechanical Engineering graduates often work with complex machinery across industries like aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, and advanced manufacturing.
"The classroom sizes are quite small, so you have amazing one-on-one contact with your lecturers, teachers and tutors. I’ve also met many like-minded people already, and getting to problem-solve with them in my degree is fantastic."
Bridgette Layman
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Student
"It is very important to me to have a backup option to rugby league. Not only a backup option, but something I can invest my time into away from footy. It helps me take my mind off the pressures of the season."
Tom Duffy
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Student
"Studying engineering has been amazing. I get so excited and passionate about this course that it reminds me why I’ve done it. I’ve met amazing people and had heaps of opportunities. Working on projects, problem-solving and doing it all for yourself are the best things about the course. You won’t get that anywhere else."
Aliesha Smith
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) – Alumni
Confirm that you meet the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and note the QTAC code.
To apply for entry into the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) please submit your application via QTAC.
Ready today for tomorrow
- We acknowledge Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People as the first inhabitants of the nation, and acknowledge Traditional Custodians of the Australian lands where our staff and students live, learn and work. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this site may contain names, images or voices of people who have passed away.
- © James Cook University 1995 to 2026
- TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12077
- CRICOS Provider Code 00117
- ABN 46253211955