The impact of their life histories on the ways women who have experienced domestic violence decide on and engage with university study

Domestic violence is a widespread, gendered problem. Within Australia, the publication of statistical information points to increases in the incidence of this form of violence. Domestic violence literature focuses on prevention and understanding. There is a growing interest in the challenges and opportunities for women who choose to leave a violent relationship. There has been little attention, however, given to women who embark upon university study in the aftermath of domestic violence. This study comes at a time of heightened acknowledgement of violence against women, particularly the issue of domestic violence within Australia addressing a clear gap in the current literature.