JCU is a world top 500 university, which is a normal ranking by Australian standards.
James Cook University is ranked #429 in the world, based on a composite of QS, Times, ARWU, and Webometrics rankings. In Australia, JCU is ranked #23 out of 42 universities.
James Cook University (JCU) is a multi-campus "tropical" university. JCU is located in the warm and humid north-east of Australia and specialises in tropical research. The university also has strong health and medical programs.
Website: jcu.edu.au | Campuses: Townsville, Brisbane, Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa [QLD], Singapore
JCU World Ranking
Global Ranking: 429
James Cook University is ranked #429th in the world. It ranks 301-400 with Shanghai ARWU but as low as 469 with Webometrics, indicating limited online publishing.
QS ranking: 445
Times Higher Education: 450
ARWU: 350
Webometrics: 469
Australia Ranking
Australia Rank: 23
JCU is the 23rd-ranked university in Australia, behind the University of South Australia and Flinders University. It's ahead of institutions such as Swinburne, Murdoch University and CQUniversity.
Above: Western Sydney University (20), Flinders University (21), UniSA (22)
Below: Swinburne (24), Murdoch University (25), Edith Cowan University (26)
Is James Cook University Good?
James Cook University (JCU) is ideal for students interested in studying in Northern Queensland, with campuses in Townsville and Cairns. This region offers a unique tropical setting, giving students a lifestyle that blends learning with easy access to rainforests, reefs, and outdoor adventures.
Serving northern Queensland
Tropical living
Specialist facilities
James Cook University (JCU) offers specialised research facilities focused on tropical, marine, and environmental sciences. These include the Australian Institute of Tropical Health, Daintree Rainforest Observatory, and Orpheus Island marine station.
Satisfaction: 74.8%
James Cook University reviews show a satisfaction level of 69.1% for bachelor degrees and 80.4% for postgraduate students. Uni Reviews provides individual ratings and comments.
How Many Students?
Students: 20,360
James Cook University had a total of 20,360 students in 2023, making it the 32nd largest university in Australia. JCU is the 6th biggest uni in Queensland.
- International students: 7,857 (39%)
- Postgraduate students: 6,397 (31%)
- Gender ratio: 61% Female : 39% Male
- On-campus students: 16,277 (80%)
Acceptance Rate
Acceptance Rate: 93%
The James Cook University acceptance rate is 93%. Among students with an ATAR that qualifies for university, only 7% are unable to be admitted into their preferred degree.
Required ATAR: 54
It is very easy to get into James Cook University, with a minimum ATAR of 54 on average. At the time of publishing, the ATAR threshold was 51 for Arts and Bachelor of Business, and 59 for Science degrees.
Is James Cook University Online?
Yes, James Cook University (JCU) offers online courses. With 1,106 bachelor and 2,632 postgraduate students studying online, about 20% of its student population is enrolled in online programs. Popular fields of study at JCU Online include Health, and Society and Culture. JCU provides options for students who prefer or require remote study.