Transform your education with a world-class degree in Marine Biology, Zoology, Environmental Science, or Aquaculture at James Cook University!

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No. 2
in the world for collaborative partnerships1
No. 4
in the world for Marine and Freshwater Biology2
No. 5
in the world for Ecology3
5 Stars
for student teacher ratio, social equity4
Why choose JCU's 2+2 program?
✔ Automatic admission pathways to top programs in Marine Biology, Zoology, Aquaculture, and Environmental Science.
✔ FAFSA and GI Bill eligible to help fund your education.
✔ Only 2 years in Australia to complete your degree.
✔ World-class research facilities, hands-on learning, and career-building opportunities.
✔ 25% scholarship for qualifying students. 
Explore World-Class Programs at JCU
  • ✔ Marine Biology & Marine Science: Study at one of the world’s top 10 universities for marine science.
  • ✔ Hands-on research opportunities on the Great Barrier Reef.
  • ✔ State-of-the-art labs and facilities for cutting-edge discoveries. Zoology & Ecology, Aquaculture, and Environmental Science: Experience Australia’s unique ecosystems.
  • ✔ Work alongside renowned researchers in real-world settings. 
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Discover Orpheus Island Research Station
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Frequently asked questions

Yes! JCU accepts U.S. federal aid and GI Benefits. Please refer to further information on our website here or email us. You can also use GI Bill benefits.

Just two years! You’ll complete your first two years at OCC and your final two at JCU.

Yes, explore on-campus and off-campus housing in Townsville and Cairns. For more information about housing options, please visit our website here.

Please note that all students have single rooms. There is no shared dorms at JCU. There is 1 catered option for students, George Roberts Hall with 3 meals a day and many other options that have nice kitchens students can cook for themselves.

Applications for the September 2025 start are due by March 15th, 2025. Applications for the January 2026 start are due by October 15th, 2025.

Applying to study at JCU is free! Submit your application here, upload your OCC transcript, and provide a scanned copy of your passport.

Get ready for your new home in Australia
Housing Options: Explore a variety of student housing options in Townsville and Cairns, from on-campus dormitories to affordable off-campus rentals. 
Important dates to remember
For September 2025 start, the application deadline is March 15th, 2025.
For January 2026 start, the application deadline is October 15th, 2025.
How to apply
Start your journey at JCU with our straightforward application process. Best of all, you can apply with no application fee!
Ready to take the first step toward your future?
Need help?
Our dedicated team at OCC and JCU is here to help you navigate this exciting opportunity.
Whether you have questions about the program, application process, or student life,
we're committed to supporting your academic journey every step of the way.
1 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024.   2 2024 US News Best Global Universities Rankings.  3 2024 ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.  4 2025 Good Universities Guide.  Photo credit: Harriet Spark Grumpy Turtle Creative

About JCU

Campuses and Locations

JCU Courses

  • We acknowledge Australian Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People as the first inhabitants of the nation, and acknowledge Traditional Owners of the lands where our staff and students live, learn and work.
  • Aboriginal Flag Torres Strait flag