Enter OTP
James Cook University (JCU) offers a comprehensive six-year undergraduate program leading to the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. This program is designed to prepare students for medical practice with a strong emphasis on rural, remote, tropical, and Indigenous health.
Program Duration and Focus:
6 years, full-time
Delivered across Townsville and Cairns campuses
Intake starts in February each year
The program is accredited by the Australian Medical Council (AMC)
Graduates are eligible for professional registration with the Medical Board of Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Curriculum Structure:
Years 1–3:
Focus on foundational medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, integrated with early clinical exposure and community placements.
Years 4–6:
Emphasis on clinical practice through rotations in various medical specialties including internal medicine, surgery, psychiatry, and general practice.
Students undertake extended placements in diverse settings, particularly in rural and remote communities.
Clinical Experience:
Students gain over 4,000 hours of clinical training throughout the program, starting from the first year. JCU’s strong ties with regional and rural hospitals ensure wide-ranging exposure to real-world clinical environments.
Yes, James Cook University's (JCU) Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program offers extensive experiential learning opportunities, including clinical placements, research projects, and internships.
Clinical Placements:
JCU's MBBS curriculum integrates hands-on clinical experience throughout the six-year program. Students engage in clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including rural and remote communities, to gain practical skills and understand diverse healthcare environments. These placements are designed to prepare students for real-world medical practice.
Research Opportunities:
JCU encourages medical students to participate in research activities. Students can undertake research projects in areas such as tropical medicine, Indigenous health, and rural healthcare. These projects may be part of coursework or pursued independently under faculty supervision, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
Internships and Industry Engagement:
While the MBBS program primarily focuses on clinical training, JCU also offers opportunities for students to engage with industry partners through research internships and collaborative projects. These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in practical settings, enhancing their professional development and employability.
Overall, JCU's MBBS program emphasizes experiential learning to equip students with the necessary skills and experiences for a successful medical career.
Immediate Post-Graduation Steps (Internship Year)
Internship (PGY1 – Postgraduate Year 1)
All graduates must complete a 1-year supervised internship at an accredited hospital in Australia.
This is required for full registration with the Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA).
It is also the stepping stone for specialty training programs.
International students can apply for internships via the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and state health departments, but competition is strong as domestic applicants are prioritized.
Residency and Further Clinical Training
Residency (PGY2 and PGY3)
After the internship, graduates work as resident medical officers (RMOs).
This phase allows doctors to rotate through various specialties to gain broad experience.
It also serves as preparation for entry into postgraduate specialty training programs.
Postgraduate Specialty Training
Specialist Training Programs
Entry into specialist training is through one of Australia’s recognized medical colleges.
Examples of specialty pathways include:
General Practice (RACGP)
Surgery (RACS)
Internal Medicine (RACP)
Emergency Medicine (ACEM)
Psychiatry (RANZCP)
Training duration varies between 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty.
Admission is competitive, typically requiring clinical experience, references, exams, and interviews.
A Levels - Biology and Chemistry is Mandatory.IBDP - 666 in HL is needed, with Biology and Chemistry is mandatory at HLIndian - Biology and Chemistry is mandatory with a third science. Year 12 transcripts & certificates (or equivalent), including results in English, Chemistry, and Mathematical Methods (minimum grade C/band 3 for NSW equivalents) Certified true copies of all academic documents—certified by a JP, notary, solicitor, QTAC, police sergeant, or approved agent English translations (certified) if originals are in another language Year 12 students must provide a PAA form filled by a school official, covering Year 11/12 terms, to predict final ATAR/grades Up to three letters of support from non-family referees (e.g., employer, teacher), including contact details. Typed letters addressed “to whom it may concern” are acceptable Passport copy, visa documentation, and proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS ≥ 7) PhysicianSurgeonFamily Medicine DoctorEmergency Medicine PhysicianMedical ResearcherClinical Trials CoordinatorEpidemiologistPublic Health AdministratorMedical EducatorHospital AdministratorMedical Science LiaisonHealthcare ConsultantTelehealth PhysicianHealth AdvocateForensic PathologistOccupational Health PhysicianSports PhysicianMedical WriterHealth Informatics Specialist
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
James Cook University
