Introduction to Design Thinking

Edith Cowan University (ECU) provides the ideal learning environment for people who want to graduate world ready.

Located in Western Australia, our industry-relevant teaching and research, supportive study environment and award-winning facilities enable ECU students to do more than just survive in this world – they thrive in it.

Established in 1991, ECU took the opportunity to reshape the way higher education is delivered in a distinctive and inspiring campus environment.

ECU courses are developed in consultation with industry, and teaching staff have extensive industry experience and networks. It's why ECU students can expect work integrated learning placement opportunities, fieldwork, practicums and networking events as part of their studies.

This approach has been rewarded with five-star ratings for undergraduate teaching quality over the past 17 years, along with consistently high ratings for overall education experience, skills development, student support and learning resources, as reported in the Good Universities Guide .

ECU's world-class research strives to make a difference to the community in Western Australia and beyond. ECU focuses on working with our communities, business and government organizations to solve real-world problems.

The University was named after Edith Dircksey Cowan, the first woman to be elected to an Australian Parliament. Her life was dedicated to 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 the communities in which they live and work.

At a glance

ECU has more than 30,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, including international students from 100 countries.

Our eight schools collectively deliver a diverse range of courses across arts and humanities, business and law, education, engineering, medical and health sciences, nursing and midwifery, science and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.

Courses are offered on our three campuses – ECU Joondalup and ECU Mount Lawley in metropolitan Perth and ECU South West in Bunbury, 200km south of the capital city. ECU also offers a comprehensive suite of online study options.

ECU incorporates the world-renowned Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, the oldest and most popular School of Education in Western Australia, the largest Nursing program in the State, and Kurongkurl Katitjin, our Center for Australian Indigenous Education and Research.

ECU is guided by its purpose, vision, commitments and values

Our purpose

• ECU’s purpose is to transform lives and enrich society.

Our vision

To lead the sector in educational experience, research with impact, and in positive contributions to industry and communities.

Our commitments

To achieve our vision, ECU will:

• be dedicated to every student’s success

• provide real-world research solutions

• create partnerships for economic and social well-being

• empower our staff to lead in a diverse and values-based organisation

• secure our future through innovation and leadership

ECU’s values

Students, staff and Council members will always conduct their study, work and service to the University in ways that embrace the following values:

• Integrity: we are ethical, honest and fair and demonstrate trust and personal responsibility

• Respect: we treat everyone within our diverse community with dignity and respect

• Rational Inquiry: our decision-making is driven by evidence, sound reasoning, and creative thinking

• Personal Excellence: we demonstrate the highest personal and professional standards

• Courage: we are bold and resolute in our thinking and actions in pursuit of our goals