Western Australia is home to a diverse and dynamic higher education system, offering a wide range of academic opportunities across its five universities. The state is known for its mix of public and private institutions, with four major public universities based in Perth and one private university located in Fremantle.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) stands as the state's oldest and most prestigious university, consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia. Alongside UWA, Curtin University is another significant institution, renowned for its strong focus on research, innovation, and industry partnerships. Edith Cowan University (ECU) is known for its emphasis on practical education, and Murdoch University, which is also based in Perth, offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

In addition to these public universities, the University of Notre Dame Australia, a private Roman Catholic university located in Fremantle, adds a unique educational option to the state. It is one of only two private universities in Australia, alongside Bond University in Queensland, that operate as not-for-profit educational providers.

These universities collectively contribute to Western Australia's reputation for quality higher education, catering to students from across the nation and around the world. The state’s educational institutions continue to play a crucial role in shaping future leaders and innovators, with many offering a combination of strong academic programs, research initiatives, and industry connections.