Rugby league star Johnathan Thurston has been awarded an honorary doctorate for his work off the field.

James Cook University awarded Thurston a Doctor of Letters in a special ceremony today recognising his contribution to charity and communities in north Queensland.

The Cowboys co-captain, 32, has won a swag of awards this year including leading the club to its first NRL premiership and taking home the Dally M Medal for a record fourth time.

The university's chancellor John Grey said Thurston's sporting prowess is well known but his contributions extend far beyond rugby league.

"He's seen as a mentor to so many people in north Queensland and beyond, particularly in the Indigenous communities," he said.

"[The] qualities that he displays are humility, sportsmanship, leadership, mateship, and loyalty.

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"He demonstrates those both on the football field and off ... [and] that makes him not only a unique person but also, I think, a role model for Indigenous people and especially for Indigenous children.

"I also think he's a tremendous role model for all Australians, and that's what we're recognising."

Chancellor Grey said it was unusual to bestow such an honour on a person as young as Thurston.

"This one is particularly rare because most awards are given to people at the end of their careers," he said.

"I think what's important about Jonathan Thurston's award is the university is recognising a younger man."

The Chancellor said he doubts if Thurston will start using his new title.

"The individual concerned can choose to be called 'doctor' but most don't," he said.

"The custom is that when the university addresses the person we refer to him as doctor but external to the university it's seen as honorary and is not used."

Thurston said it is humbling to receive the award and it is an exciting way to finish the year.