Flexibility to get your career moving

Life is busy, and adult responsibilities can make your goals seem out of reach.

Edith Cowan University's (ECU) world-class courses provide flexible study options such as full-time or part-time, on campus or online, double degrees, double majors and more.

So, whether you're looking for a change or want to give your current career a boost, you can study at ECU in a way that suits you.

Do it your way

In 2020, Busselton teacher Cole Van-Overdijk was looking for a career change which would allow him to indulge his passion for the outdoors.

ECU South West offers a Bachelor of Science (Conservation Biology and Environmental Management), allowing Mr Van-Overdijk to reach his goal without having to relocate to Perth.

"So, I took the plunge and went back to university," he said.

"It was one of the best decisions I have ever made."

Getting started

For his first degree, Mr Van-Overdijk applied to university through TISC as a school leaver. But this time he applied as a mature-aged student directly to ECU.

"The short timeframe between application and acceptance meant I could plan work and other commitments properly without having to wait too long," he said.

Mr Van-Overdijk was also able to commence with ECU mid-year, allowing him to get a head start on his new career path as quickly as possible.

He admitted needing help in transitioning back to university study – and received abundant support at ECU.

Cole Van-Overdijk was able to start his degree mid-year, while still living and working in South West WA.

"I didn't know anyone who was taking this pathway and a lot had changed over the years," he said.

"But the Student Hub staff were very helpful and went above and beyond in helping me."

Learn from the best

ECU students gain on-the-job training as part of their studies, which saw Mr Van-Overdijk spend several months with the Parks and Wildlife Service.

"I got to build relationships and it helped me navigate where I'd like to go with my career," he said.

Mr Van-Overdijk said the positive influence of his ECU teachers extended way beyond the classroom.

"Their experience outside of academia has also helped us navigate the workplace," he said.

"They pay close attention to how we are going; I know and trust they have my best interests at heart."

It's an approach that has seen ECU receive a five-star Good Universities Guide rating for teaching quality for 15 years in a row.

In 2022, the university also received five-stars and was ranked the top WA university for undergraduate overall experience, skills development, student support, learning resources and learner engagement.

A new journey begins

Mr Van-Overdijk is excited to get started in his new career.

ECU courses are designed in consultation with industry, meaning he will enter the workforce with the skills to have an impact from day one on the job.

"As my final weeks of my course approach, I think about how my path has changed," he said.

"I have grown into someone who takes chances, dives headfirst into challenges, and takes care of those around me.

"I don't know where my next chapter will lead… but that's the most exciting part."

Apply now for Mid-Year Entry at ecuworldready.com.au