From China to Cybersecurity Success: Yang Xiaohan’s Journey at Edith Cowan College and University

Are you considering studying abroad in Australia and wondering how it could pave the way to a successful career and permanent residency? Meet Yang Xiaohan, a driven Chinese student whose inspiring journey from Edith Cowan College (ECC) to Edith Cowan University (ECU) showcases the power of determination, quality education, and strategic planning. Completing ECC’s Diploma of Information Technology and transitioning to ECU’s Bachelor of Cybersecurity, Yang has not only built a thriving career in Australia but is also preparing to apply for permanent residency through the subclass 190 visa. Here’s his story, packed with insights for international students eyeing a future in Australia’s booming IT and cybersecurity sectors.

Starting Strong at Edith Cowan College

Yang Xiaohan arrived in Perth, Western Australia, from China with a dream of breaking into the tech industry. Like many international students, he faced the challenge of adapting to a new education system and culture. After researching his options, Yang chose Edith Cowan College’s Diploma of Information Technology as his entry point in 2021. Located in the vibrant Joondalup area, ECC offered a supportive environment with small class sizes, personalized tutoring, and a curriculum tailored to prepare students for university-level studies.

The Diploma of IT at ECC was a game-changer for Yang. Spanning just eight months, the program covered foundational skills like programming, networking, and systems analysis—key areas that ignited his interest in cybersecurity. “ECC gave me the confidence to pursue my goals,” Yang recalls. “The teachers were approachable, and the coursework was practical, which made the transition to university seamless.” For students searching for “fast-track IT courses in Australia” or “pathways to ECU,” ECC’s diploma stands out as an efficient and affordable option.

Stepping Up to ECU’s Bachelor of Cybersecurity

After excelling in his diploma, Yang earned direct entry into the second year of Edith Cowan University’s Bachelor of Cybersecurity in 2022. ECU, renowned for its cutting-edge programs in technology and security, was the perfect fit for Yang’s ambitions. The Bachelor of Cybersecurity equipped him with advanced skills in ethical hacking, digital forensics, and network security—fields in high demand across Australia and globally.

Yang thrived at ECU, thanks to its industry-aligned curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities, including the Security Operations Centre (SOC). “The hands-on projects, like simulating cyberattacks and designing secure systems, prepared me for real-world challenges,” he says. For those Googling “best cybersecurity courses in Australia” or “ECU cybersecurity degree reviews,” Yang’s experience highlights why ECU consistently ranks among the top choices for tech-savvy students.

From Student to Professional: Landing a Job in Australia

Graduating in 2023, Yang leveraged Australia’s Graduate visa (subclass 485) to stay and work in the country. Armed with his ECU degree and practical experience, he secured a position as aJunior Cybersecurity Analyst at a Perth-based tech firm within three months. “The skills I gained at ECU, like penetration testing and risk assessment, made me stand out to employers,” Yang explains. His role involves protecting company networks from threats, a critical task in today’s digital landscape.

Australia’s tech industry is booming, with cybersecurity jobs listed among the nation’s most in-demand occupations. For international graduates, this opens doors to not just employment but also pathways to permanent residency. Yang’s story is a testament to how completing a Diploma of IT at ECC and a Bachelor of Cybersecurity at ECU can lead to tangible career success.

Preparing for Permanent Residency with the 190 Visa

Now, in 2025, Yang is taking the next step: applying for the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), which offers a direct route to Australian permanent residency. With his occupation on Western Australia’s skilled migration list and points accumulated from his education, work experience, and English proficiency, Yang is optimistic. “Staying in Australia long-term has always been my goal,” he says. “The 190 visa feels like the reward for all my hard work.”

For students researching “how to get PR in Australia after study” or “skilled migration visas for IT graduates,” Yang’s case offers a blueprint. Starting with a diploma at ECC, progressing to a bachelor’s at ECU, and securing a job in a high-demand field can significantly boost your chances of calling Australia home.

Why Yang’s Story Matters

Yang Xiaohan’s journey from a Chinese international student to a cybersecurity professional preparing for permanent residency is more than just a success story—it’s a roadmap. Edith Cowan College and Edith Cowan University provided the foundation, while his dedication and Australia’s immigration policies opened the doors. Whether you’re exploring “study options in Australia for international students,” “cybersecurity career paths,” or “PR pathways after graduation,” Yang’s experience underscores the value of strategic education choices.

Ready to follow in Yang’s footsteps? Start by exploring ECC’s Diploma of Information Technology and ECU’s Bachelor of Cybersecurity. With the right plan, your Australian dream could be closer than you think!