Enrolments are up as students and staff return to campus for Semester 2 at James Cook University.
JCU domestic enrolments are up 37.6 per cent, compared to the same time last year.
Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Chris Cocklin said the sharpest increase was in online study.
“Our enrolment figures underline the continued importance of education during uncertain times, and show that people are seeing the advantages of studying remotely,” he said.
“Growth areas include our new short courses offered as part of the Federal Government’s call to upskill workers displaced by the COVID-19 crisis.
“We’re also seeing an increase in JCU’s market share in both Cairns and Townsville of QTAC applications.”
The most popular courses are the Diploma of Higher Education, Bachelor of Nursing Science, and Master of Nursing Science.
Classes requiring hands-on, practical components will be returning to campus in Semester 2, which starts this week, with lectures and some tutorials remaining online.
Prof Cocklin says he is looking forward to students returning to campus, albeit with social distancing in place.
“We’re being cautious,” he said. “We’re practicing social distancing, which includes strict number limits on room capacities and we’re avoiding big gatherings, including lectures.
“Orientation Week, which is usually a face-to-face experience, has also been conducted online this semester.”
Prof Cocklin thanked the staff who have kept the University’s services running throughout the online learning period.
“Although students weren’t attending classes on campus, they have still had access to various on-campus services including the library and IT support,” he said.
“I’d like to extend my thanks, on behalf of the University community, to those who delivered these essential services, including security and cleaning staff whose work is particularly important in keeping the campus safe and clean.”
