We empower students to be independent, critical and analytical thinkers, and assist them to plan, set and achieve their goals.
At JCU, students have access to a wealth of professional development opportunities, mentor and peer-support programs, and learning support, as well as free learning, reading, writing and maths study sessions.
Students can also take advantage of our dedicated meeting spaces and computer labs to commune and provide and receive peer support.
Current Students
JCU students have free access to academic, personal and financial support services and advice
Read moreCommunity
We give voice to Indigenous students, their families and communities, and celebrate our collective achievements
Read moreTeaching and Learning
Our students gain knowledge and understanding of the importance of culture to Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and other Indigenous peoples living in the Tropics
Read moreOur Staff
Meet our dynamic team of academic and teaching staff, professional staff, academic support advisors, student support officers and researchers
Read moreWe pay our respects to our ancestors and Elders past, present and future
We acknowledge the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation and the traditional custodians of the lands on which our campuses are located and where we conduct our business.
JCU is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to JCU and society.
Hear from graduates and current students
Laura Jensen
Laura is studying the combined Bachelor of Nursing Science – Bachelor of Midwifery degree
"I'm from Cairns and my mother is from the Gungganyji tribe in Yarrabah. I only completed Year 10 and did not think university was an option for me.
Everyone at the Indigenous Education and Research Centre is helpful and I found out there were other pathways to university, so I completed the Diploma of Higher Education (Health) to help me get into my degree. I really like the Centre and knowing that I have somewhere to go, especially because I was shy when I started university. They are like a family, everyone supports and helps each other.
After I graduate, I want to head to a rural town and work in collaboration with other health professionals to help bring birthing back to rural and remote areas."
Explore JCU's Nursing and Midwifery Course OptionsAssan Sam
Assan is studying in the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science degree
"I'm of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent and my home community is Palm Island. I visit the Indigenous Education and Research Centre regularly. They are like my family. I head in to have a yarn most of the time and I occasionally use the other services provided. I like the space and the environment of the Centre.
My advice to others is to not hesitate to study. If this is something you really want to do, just dive straight into it. You'll have all the support you need and probably more. Making friends will help you get through the degree and will come in handy when you need to study and do assessment. When you come to university, try to participate as much as you can."
Explore JCU's Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science degree