Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a dynamic public university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is recognized as one of the most modern and career-focused institutions in the country. Named after a pioneering social reformer, ECU has quickly earned a global reputation for its high-quality teaching, strong industry links, and flexible learning pathways. Today, we will get to know ECU through four key aspects: its history, top disciplines, student support, and scholarships.
History and Founding Background
Edith Cowan University was established in 1991, making it one of Australia's younger higher education institutions. However, its roots extend much deeper, tracing back to 1902 with the founding of the Claremont Teachers College, the first institution of higher education in Western Australia. The university was created through the amalgamation of several tertiary colleges and was named in honour of Edith Dircksey Cowan. She was the first woman elected to an Australian parliament and a tireless advocate for women and children. Her legacy of equity and inclusion continues to shape ECU's values to this day.diplomasproduct.com/edith-cowan…
Strong Disciplines and Rankings
Despite its youth, ECU has risen rapidly in global university rankings. In 2026, ECU is ranked #487 in the QS World University Rankings and placed in the 351–400 band in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. The university is particularly renowned for its specialised disciplines. It is consistently ranked as one of the world's best for Sports Science, placing 19th globally in the 2025 QS Subject Rankings. Nursing is also a major strength, ranking among the top 100 in the world. Furthermore, ECU's School of Business and Law has been ranked in the global top 201-250 for Business and Economics by THE 2026 by Subject. Edith Cowan University Diploma, Edith Cowan University Degree
Graduate Employment Prospects
A degree from ECU is a powerful asset in the job market. The university focuses heavily on producing graduates who are ready to contribute from day one, an approach reflected in outstanding employment rates. ECU has a graduate employment rate of approximately 88%, and a medium-term full-time employment rate of 93% for its graduates, figures that often surpass the national average. This success leads to strong salary outcomes; the median full-time salary for ECU graduates is $86,900, which is the highest among all Western Australian universities. The university has also been rated five stars for teaching quality and skills development by the Good Universities Guide for 17 consecutive years.
Scholarships and Financial Support
ECU is dedicated to making world-class education accessible for international students through a variety of generous scholarships. For students commencing undergraduate or postgraduate coursework, the International Undergraduate Scholarship and International Masters Scholarship can provide a 20% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of the course. Exceptional students can apply for the more competitive ECU International Excellence Scholarships. Additionally, those starting their studies at the new ECU City Campus may be eligible for the ECU City Campus Welcome Bursary, a one-off payment of $5,000 AUD. From conditional offers to merit-based achievements, ECU provides numerous pathways to help students fund their education in Australia.
