Study with Purpose

Flexibility, Support, and Real Outcomes

#1

in QLD for full-time employment1

#1

in QLD for student support1

#1

in QLD for median graduate salary2

Whether you want to accelerate your career, switch professions, study for the first time, or have a passion for learning, you can find your future at JCU as a mature student.
You can benefit from flexible learning by studying online and on campus, and receive support from dedicated staff who will help you achieve your study and career goals. Our community is designed to make you feel comfortable as you embark on your learning journey.

Also, if you don’t have the required prerequisites to enter your chosen course, don’t stress! There are multiple pathways into uni. For example, JCU has a fee-free program – JCU Prep – that can help you develop the skills and subject knowledge you need to enrol in a bachelor’s degree.
Why study as a Mature Student at JCU?
  • Study part-time, online or on-campus, so that you can manage work and life commitments around your uni schedule.
  • You can still study a bachelor’s degree, even if you don’t have an ATAR, didn’t complete the right subject prerequisites, or left high school some time ago. Pathways are available for you to study at JCU.
  • Credit is available for previous study, or informal learning such as work experience. This means you may be able to complete your course in a shorter timeframe and save on overall course fees.
  • JCU has a variety of different support services available so that no matter what issues you may encounter during your learning journey, someone is always there to help.
  • JCU has many different undergraduate and postgraduate study areas, from Engineering and Information Technology to Law and Social Work, so that you can discover your ideal course and make your career dreams a reality. 
1. 2025 Good Universities Guide, PG study area l 2. 2025 Good Universities Guide, UG study area
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Flexible study options

Choose to study full-time or part-time, on-campus or online.

Build connections

Learn from experienced professionals and connect with local industry leaders.

Finish sooner

Graduate sooner with credit for previous work or study.

Whatever your motivation, we’re here to support your journey
Looking to get ahead?
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Take the next step in your career through flexible learning at JCU. With online and part-time study options available, you can make your uni experience fit around your work commitments, and receive the support and education you need to get ahead.
Changing industries?
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Turn your dream career into a reality by studying at JCU. Our world-class educators and facilities will enrich your passions and interests, and give you the skills to not only enter your dream career, but also make a real difference.
Studying for the first time?
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At JCU, we will guide and support you every step of the way in your learning journey. We understand your decision to study at university is a brave one, and our students and staff foster a welcoming community that will propel you towards your career goals.
Simply love learning?
Photo: Stephen
If you have a burning passion for knowledge and discovery, JCU is the place to be. Surround yourself with academics who are leaders in their fields, join a community of students who want to expand their horizons, and benefit from flexible learning and world-class facilities.
Discover pathway options
If you do not meet the entry requirements of your chosen degree, there are pathways and bridging courses you can take to help you gain entry.

Enrolling in JCU Prep can help you meet entry requirements. Introductory academic subjects are also available to prepare you for taking the leap into tertiary study.
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FAQs

If you’re a mature student who has never studied before, you can explore your options within undergraduate study. This level of study includes diplomas and bachelor’s degrees.

If you have previously completed an undergraduate degree, you may be eligible for postgraduate study. Depending on the level of depth you want, you may choose either a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or master's degree.

You also have the option to apply for an undergraduate degree in a different field than your existing one.

Many JCU courses are available for online and/or part-time study.

Online learning gives you the flexibility to study around your existing commitments. You will benefit from immersive and dynamic e-learning environments. Engage and connect with your peers, lecturers and fellow industry professionals virtually. Course content is available 24/7, so that you can choose where and when you study.

Part-time study means you won’t need to dedicate as much time to study each week, as you’ll be completing fewer subjects. Focus on one or two knowledge areas at a time and build your capabilities on the timeline that works for you.

JCU can provide you with a range of different assistance, depending on your needs. Academic support is available through our Learning Advisors and peer-to-peer learning. A range of health and wellness resources are available on our campuses and online, such as AccessAbility for those with a disability, neurodivergence or permanent health condition; counselling services; and safety and wellbeing information. Financial support, such as advice on fees, scholarships and government assistance, is also available.

Yes, you may be able to shave time off your degree through our Credit for Previous Study process. Credit is often available for formal learning such as courses or degrees and informal/non-formal learning such as work experience, which can help you complete your course in a shorter timeframe.

Fee subsidies are available through a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which is essentially a student place on a select university or higher education course which is heavily subsidised by the Australian Government. The majority of undergraduate courses are Commonwealth supported as are a growing number of postgraduate courses. If your course is not listed as Commonwealth supported, you will be required to pay full tuition fees, however you may be eligible for other financial assistance.

Eligibility: To be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place on an available course you must be an Australian citizen and complete at least one unit of study contributing to your course of study whilst residing in Australia. Permanent visa holders (including those on humanitarian visas) and New Zealand citizens are also eligible for Commonwealth Supported Places and again, must reside in Australia, but for the entire duration of their studies.

To learn more about Commonwealth Supported Places please visit the Australian Government’s Study Assist website.

How to apply
Apply today via the link below using the QTAC or course code on the relevant course page.
1
Explore your options

Chose your JCU course, confirm that you meet the entry requirements, and note the QTAC code or course code.

2
Check the application dates

Refer to the application due dates on the QTAC or JCU websites to ensure you apply before the deadline. 

3
Apply online via QTAC or JCU

If applying for entry into a bachelor's degree please submit your application via QTAC. For all other applications please apply via the JCU Application Portal.

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