Veteran Entry Pathway
This is a dedicated entry pathway for current and former Australian Defence Force full-time or reserve personnel, supporting a transition to university study.
Western Australia is home to more than 62,000 veterans, many with highly transferable skills but no clear entry point to university study.
Defence experience often aligns closely with a range of ECU's undergraduate degrees.
And with our strong partnerships with Defence, TAFE and WA industry, we're committed to being a veteran-supportive university of choice.
The pathway
This pathway recognises the skills, experience and qualifications gained through military service and provides tailored support to help veterans step confidently into tertiary study.
Whether you are currently serving, transitioning from the ADF, or have been out of uniform for several years, ECU offers flexible study options, academic credit for prior learning, and a strong community of support to help you succeed.
The pathway is designed for:
- ADF veterans who've completed their service and are seeking a new career direction
- Current full-time serving members preparing for transition over the next 12-18 months
- Reservists who are balancing civilian and Defence careers
- Defence family members – eligible partners or immediate family
What the pathway offers
- Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning for military qualifications and experience – meaning potentially reduced time to course completion
- Bridging and enabling programs for those without recent academic study
- Flexible study options, i.e. on-campus, online, part-time or hybrid
- Dedicated Veteran Student Advisor for enrolment, support and referral
- Access to counselling and wellbeing support, including via Open Arms
- Clear links to Defence Industry and other employment in WA
How the pathway works
From Army service to university life
After 15 years in the Australian Army, including service with the Special Air Service Regiment, Luke saw first-hand the hardships many soldiers face during and after service. That experience shaped a clear purpose: to support veterans' wellbeing beyond the uniform.
Now studying at ECU, Luke plans to use his psychology training to become a psychologist specialising in veteran mental health and post-service support.
"Going back to university at 46, I thought the transition would be quite difficult - but ECU's range of student services assisted me. ECU is starting to build a network for veterans, helping us support each other as we adjust to study and civilian life."
Luke: Former Australian Army - Special Air Service Regiment
ECU Psychology Student
Useful links
Do you have any questions about the Veteran Entry Pathway?
The Important Things
Things you should know about if you're thinking about studying here.
Course Entry
There's more than one admission pathway into an ECU course. It depends on what you've studied already, or your work or life experience.
Fees & Scholarships
Course tuition fees can change, but we can give you an estimate of your costs. If you're eligible, a scholarship or student loan can help too.
Applying
Applying for a course is a fairly simple process, especially if you have scanned copies of qualifications, your resume or other paperwork, ready to upload.
ECU Experience
Starting a course is an exciting and sometimes daunting time, so we make a massive effort to ensure you get all the support you need to have a positive experience.