Education Facilities

The Education sector of North Queensland contributes significantly to the local, state and national economies as well as the world stage in research and development.

The region has an extensive network of both public and privately funded primary and secondary schools with many tertiary education options offered through the Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE (BRIT) and James Cook University (JCU).

With over 16 high schools and 41 primary schools in the Townsville-Thuringowa area alone, the immediate region offers an extensive range of schooling opportunities. There are also boarding school facilities in the nearby towns of Charters Towers and Ingham.

BRIT is the major vocational training facility in the region. Approximately 13000 students enrol in BRIT each year. The students undertake studies in vocational areas such as hospitality and tourism, community services, nursing, business, information technology, sport and recreation, health, art, engineering and construction. BRIT courses articulate to degree programs in Australian universities including JCU, providing improved access and reduced course time.

JCU is Australia's leading tropical research university, enjoying an international reputation promoted and maintained through strong linkages with universities and research institutions world wide.

Offering more than 170 undergraduate and 120 postgraduate courses spanning Arts, Business, the Creative Arts, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Health Services, Social Sciences and Science, JCU is well placed to provide graduates with the qualifications and skills for entry into the global workforce. All degree programs emphasise the skills of critical thinking and problem solving, effective communication and familiarity with information technologies. JCU works extensively with local industries and professionals to ensure that the courses offered relate to employer need.

Numerous research organisations are also situated throughout the region and are well placed to lead and assist in research and development projects. These organisations include the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Water and the Australian Institute of Tropical Agriculture.

Tailored for more industrial research are the Advanced Analytical Centre and the Economic Geology Unit, both at JCU and the Industrial Supplies Office. Together, all of the above agencies are set to see the knowledge intensive industries rapidly expand in future years.