Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a large, multi‐campus institution with two Perth metropolitan campuses at Mount Lawley and Joondalup, and serves Western Australia’s South West Region from a campus at Bunbury.

Granted university status in 1991, Edith Cowan University is a university that offers innovative and practical courses. The university has a vibrant research culture with high quality researchers and research partners, and a strong emphasis on collaboration.

ECU focuses on working within the community and business and government organizations to solve real-world problems.  Courses are developed in consultation with industry, and teaching staff have extensive industry experience. ECU students can expect placement opportunities, field work, practicums and networking events.

ECU offers more than 300 courses across a broad range of disciplines including: Business; Communications and Arts; Education; Engineering; Environmental Science; Health; Law and Justice; Nursing; and Sports Science. Many courses are offered online.

ECU’s research excellence is based on collaboration and engagement with a range of local, national and international partners, including state and federal governments, industry and other universities.  The school’s focus is on research that will extend knowledge and improve the quality of life for Australians and people across the globe. The university’s research priorities focus on solving social, economic, environmental and cultural issues, through high impact research in areas of national strategic importance.

Background

The university was named after Edith Dircksey Cowan (1861-1932), the first woman to be elected to an Australian Parliament.  Her life was dedicated to social reform and the belief that education was the key to growth, change and improvement in society. Her example informs ECU’s values as we pride ourselves in developing capable graduates who lead engaged and productive lives in their communities.

    Purpose: To further develop valued citizens for the benefit of Western Australia and beyond, through teaching and research inspired by engagement and partnerships.
    Vision: For students, staff and graduates to be highly regarded internationally as ethical and engaged contributors to more inclusive, sustainable and prosperous communities.
    University values:
    Integrity – behaving ethically and pursuing rigorous intellectual positions. Respect – valuing individual differences and diversity. Rational inquiry – motivated by evidence and reasoning. Personal excellence – striving to realize potential.

Strategic Priorities:

To create positive outcomes in communities through mutually beneficial engagement. To deliver accessible world-class education and an enriching student experience. To enhance the personal and professional outcomes of graduates. To strengthen research capability, capacity, translation and impact. To enhance organizational resilience, sustainability and reputation.