International Graduate - Volume 11 Issue 6

Page 1

Volume 11 Issue 6

International Graduate news MBAs in the UK The UK packs political punch Border control USA

Discover down under Sydney welcomes students

w w w . i n t e r n a t i o n a l g r a d u a t e . n e t


YOUR SUCCESSFUL CAREER BEGINS HERE SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT, SYDNEY Internationally recognised Diplomas, Associate Degrees and Macquarie University Bachelor of Business and Masters programs. Sport Management Hospitality Management Property Services Management Retail Services Management

Event Management International Tourism Business Management

Master’s degrees available in International Business and Commerce. All courses include paid work placement opportunities. Accommodation available on campus.

For more information email info@icms.edu.au or visit

www.icms.edu.au CRICOS 01484M, 00002J


Volume 11 Issue 6

Volume 11 Issue 6

Contents

International Graduate news MBAs in the UK The UK packs political punch Border control USA

Discover down under Sydney welcomes students

w w w . i n t e r n a t i o n a l g r a d u a t e . n e t

06/12/2010 12:22:28

IG ED 11.6.indd 1

STUDENT RECRUITMENT MEDIA LTD. 101 Southwark Street London SE1 0JF, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 207 401 7333 Fax: +44 (0) 207 401 7233 Website: www.internationalgraduate.net

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER S. Naik EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR L. Turnell ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR H. Nagel henryn@srmedia.net HEAD OF GLOBAL SALES Sebastian Courage sebastianc@srmedia.net EDITORIAL MANAGER E. Crane emilyc@srmedia.net EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS L. Proto, B. Pryor DESIGNER S. Foley designer@srmedia.net

International Graduate UK

International Graduate Europe

02

International Graduate news

22

Hidden gems of Finland

04

MBAs in the UK

24

Helsinki living, Helsinki style

06

tudying economics at S postgraduate level

26

uild your competences in B Jyväskylä, Central Finland

09

Kingston Business School

28

10

Packing political punch Consider the UK for politics

Sweden changes tuition fees How will this effect international students?

12

Economic demand

14

F ulfil your ambitions Postgraduate course in statistics, mathematics or actuarial science

WEB & E-MAGAZINE N. Lakhoo naz@srmedia.net ADVERTISEMENT SALES G. Sanna, J. Coopman, S. Clarke, D. Phillips, S.Pandya FINANCIAL SERVICES N. Vijayarajah, A. Elahi ADMINISTRATOR & RESPONSE MANAGER F. Stanley

International Graduate Worldwide 34

Border control USA

16

Studying Geomatics

37

State snapshot: California

18

ick-start your career in K biomedicine

42

Discovering down under Sydney: A city guide

20

reative opportunities C at Brunel University

44

limbing the corporate ladder at C ICMS Student profile: Ryan Lo

46

The Sino-British College

PRINTED BY Emirates Printing Press LLC, Dubai © Sandringham Publishing Ltd. 2010 All material appearing in this magazine is the copyright of Sandringham Publishing Ltd. and cannot be copied, electronically stored or reproduced, except for the sole purpose of individual study and careers advice. S R Media Ltd. disclaim any responsibility for opinions expressed, which are those of the authors. The publishers receive all contributions and materials with gratitude, but cannot be held responsible for any damage, loss or failure to return, whether by ourselves or our agents.

Looking for an MBA course? www.mba-courses.com


News

International Graduate UK

International Graduate news BYU beats Harvard, Stanford and Yale to the top spot

NYU to open a campus in Australia Students from New York University will have the chance to study down under, as it has been revealed a campus is to be built in Australia.

Brigham Young University has been named the most popular national university in America, based on an analysis of yield; the percentage of students accepted to a school who choose to attend. BYU has beaten Harvard, Stanford and Yale to the top spot this year, but came in second place last year and tied in first place with Harvard two years ago. The yield ranking is the percentage of students accepted to a school who go on to enrol and attend classes. BYU obtained a 78 per cent yield, followed by Harvard at 76 per cent, Stanford at 71 per cent and Yale at 68 per cent. The rankings are based on a measurement called yield, which is the percentage of accepted students who go on to enrol. BYU topped the rest of the schools with a 78 per cent yield, followed by Harvard at 76 per cent and Stanford at 71 per cent. Surprisingly, BYU was only ranked at number 71 on U.S. News’ university league table.

02

Predominately, three groups of the national universities produced the highest yield: 1. Ivy League and selective private schools, due to their high academic standing. Of the top 10 most popular universities, seven are also within the top 10 national universities: Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University and Princeton University. 2. Large state schools renowned for their popular destinations and size and the prominence of their athletic programmes, such as The University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Florida. 3. Schools with religious ties such as Yeshiva University, a predominantly Jewish institution.

NYU President John Sexton announced details of plans to build the newest addition to the ever-expanding list of NYU study abroad sites. The Australian NYU site will focus on aboriginal art, culture and history along with environmental studies. Sexton revealed that an existing site could be gifted to NYU by the Australian government. It would be a large building which would just need to be renovated to become a university centre, and the new campus would be open for the start of the 2012 academic year. The building under speculation is reportedly large and would host “amazing ocean views”. It has also been reported that an Australian family may fund the NYU campus in Australia, but details will be made definitive in early 2011. The Australian campus will strengthen NYU’s ties to the region further, as already several NYU faculty and deans

have conducted research in Australia and many call the country home. American and Australian university staff and students alike think the new NYU site will be of great benefit. Some believe it will offer students a memorable studying abroad experience without the difficulties of culture shock, whilst others believe Australia may offer opportunities to students that other study abroad destinations cannot. An exact location in Australia has not been selected, but an NYU spokesman said: “NYU is in the logistical planning stages of establishing a study abroad site in Sydney”. It has also been reported that the NYU Australia campus will partner with the University of Sydney.


www.internationalgraduate.net

International Graduate’s Laura Proto brings you the latest information on issues affecting graduates who want to study and work abroad.

European Students’ Union makes university financing main priority for 2011 The European Students’ Union (ESU) has stated they will work hard to reverse the severe cuts in higher education budgets across Europe in 2011. The ESU is an organisation made up of 44 national unions of students from 37 countries with members of the ESU representing over 11 million students across Europe. The aim of ESU is to,

“Promote the educational, social, economic and cultural interests of students at a European level towards relevant bodies including the European Union, Bologna Follow-Up Group, Council of Europe and UNESCO”. ESU Chairperson Bert Vandenkendelaere said, “The first ten years of this century have seen the amount of funding per student decrease in many countries, often for the first time in decades. This decrease has often been replaced by the introduction or increase of tuition fees. These fees have not filled the funding gap, but

they have made it more difficult for people to participate in and complete higher education.” A survey conducted by the ESU in autumn 2009 found that national student unions from 12 counties reported that budget cuts had produced an added financial strain on students and their families. This led the ESU to start a project in October this year, “Financing the students’ future’, to compare European funding systems to share the most successful methods. The ESU’s financing plan has gone into action at the right time, as

over the last year there has been an increase in student protests again funding cuts in Austria, Italy, Ireland and most recently in the United Kingdom. At the ESU’s board meeting in early November, the national unions of students in Europe adopted ESU’s financing plan for 2011. The plan outlines financing as well as other priorities, such as developing a student quality concept for higher education and promoting a European student mobility treaty. To see the ESU’s whole plan for 2011, visit http://esu-online.org/ index.php/home

03


UK MBAs

International Graduate UK

MBAs in the UK Why study an MBA? As Mike Jones, Director General of the Association of MBAs says “The MBA is focussed on themes and techniques applicable to the business world and demands that students bring to it some business theory and experience. What distinguishes it from other business-led Master’s degrees is that it is both a postgraduate and post-experience qualification,” so apart from a minimum of two years work experience, what qualifications do you need to be accepted by a UK business school?

How to start The Association’s Salary and Careers survey reveals that around 80 per cent of MBA students studying part-time or full-time held a first degree and had achieved a first or upper second. So a good first degree can be said to be the norm. Applicants are also usually required to take a common entrance exam, and one criterion of how selective the different schools are is the GMAT score they require applicants to achieve. GMAT comprises tests in numeracy, literacy, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Non-Englishspeaking applicants are also required to take an English language test.

04


www.internationalgraduate.net

In the case of most postgraduate qualifications, you can move straight on from a first degree to a postgraduate course. While it is not absolutely impossible to take an MBA in this way, it is certainly inadvisable.

Most, but not all, business school academic years run from September or October. Although the deadline for applications is generally April/May it is advisable to get your application in at the beginning of the calendar year in which you wish to begin studying. Part-time and distance learning MBAs tend to begin in January so you should think about applying for these about six months prior to that. Many prospective MBAs see the qualification as a passport to change jobs or move between companies, business functions and industries. MBAs can also look forward to a big leap in salary once they have graduated. In fact, our latest Salary survey shows that average starting salaries for graduates have risen by 72 per cent. However, an MBA is a huge investment in both time and money and there are many factors to consider before taking the plunge.

Types of MBA course The first step is to decide which type of the multitude of courses available is most suitable for you. The MBA programmes can be full-time, part-time, and modular or use distant learning. Full-time programme usually last a year, while part-time programmes, which offer students the chance to integrate studies with employment, average two or three years.

More than 10,000 students opt for distance learning, which is the fastest growing method of MBA study. Distance learning provides a viable alternative for students who are unable to fit in part-time attendance, or who do not have access to a school of suitable standing. The course takes an average of three to five years to complete. Additionally, a prospective student needs to consider a range of factors including the size and culture of the school, programme content, quality of faculty and student body, facilities and location.

The MBA programme Whatever type of MBA you opt for, the core programme will consist of basic business skills (about one-third of the

methods, human resource management, operations management, information systems and business strategy. Increasingly schools are offering specialist MBAs but these core subjects still form the meat of the programme.

Selecting a business school in the UK Competition among business schools to attract prospective students is fierce and choosing a provider is not an easy task as there are now hundreds in the UK. The reputation of the institution from which the MBA is gained is crucial. Employers do not simply ask whether an applicant has an MBA, they also want to know where it came from.

“Our Salary Survey shows that 50 per cent of MBA students have all fees paid by their employers, and only 16 per cent report no financial assistance.” course) and electives (which you choose.) As a general rule, core courses should cover managerial economics, financial and management accounting, marketing, quantitative

Although Europe is beginning to establish league tables of business schools, the process of accreditation that has been carried out by the Association of MBAs for more than 25

years offers clearer, more specific guidance and gives an indication of the quality of a schools programmes that is rather better than that given by the school itself. Accreditation by the Association gives an indication of the standing of the business school involved and also means that students are eligible for the Association’s loan scheme, which is designed to help individuals paying their own fees. Since the loan programme started in the 1970’s £130 million has been made available to students.

The rewards Company sponsorship is the most popular method of taking an MBA. Our Salary Survey shows that 50 per cent of MBA students have all fees paid by their employers, and only 16 per cent report no financial assistance. The decision to take an MBA cannot be taken lightly – but, as our survey demonstrates, for those who graduate the prospects, both in terms of personal development and career progression, are bright.

By: Robert Owen, Association of MBAs

05


Economics

International Graduate UK

Studying economics at postgraduate level Economists are in demand, but typically an undergraduate qualification is not sufficient. Employers want people with advanced skills and training, while for postgraduate research in economics you must have a high quality MSc. Could economics be the career for you? If so, you should consider a Master’s degree in economics, and there are many opportunities in Britain. Economics is a challenging subject to study at Master’s level because the subject matter is inherently trying to make sense of a complex world. Can economic analysis contribute to understanding the causes of the financial crisis? (Yes, as the pitfalls of over-borrowing and excess leverage have been recognised). Why is it that people in some countries have such high standards of living yet in other countries there are millions of extremely poor people? Do international economic relations, such as trade and capital flows, make the situation better or worse? The study of economics helps to find answers to these questions because it involves the analysis of how markets, firms, governments and individuals behave in the economic sphere. Fields in economics address these issues at the national and global level; international economics looks at behaviour and interactions at the global level, between governments, firms and even individuals, while development economics tends to focus on the poorer countries.

Choosing a Master’s course Any student planning to take a taught graduate course in economics has first to make two crucial and related decisions. Why do you want the degree, and to which universities should you apply? A general MSc

06

in Economics is solid training that opens many career opportunities, but if you have a particular career in mind you may wish to specialise. Different courses allow you to specialise in public sector, international, labour or development economics for example. A Master’s in Economics essentially offers training in analytical skills, typically including quantitative analysis, and knowledge of theory and evidence in chosen fields. Some students will be interested in a career as an academic economist, or further training through a research degree (MPhil/PhD). Most British universities, and certainly all the better ones, will require a Master’s as a condition for entry to their research degree programme. So how do you know which are the better universities for economics? One useful source of information is the economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which evaluates graduate training in economics: does the Master’s course you are thinking of doing have ESRC recognition? If it does, the course has been examined and approved by the ESRC.

Which university? You’ve decided you want a Master’s in Economics, but how do you choose from the many universities

offering courses? In addition to any personal reasons you may have, there are three crucial factors to consider. First, how good is the Department? For graduate study it is important that the Department has a good research record. If you want to specialise in a particular branch of economics, you want to be taught by staff at the forefront of their field. Second, does the institution offer the specialism you want? Third, is the university located somewhere you would like to live? Information on research quality is given by the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). The last RAE in 2008 gave every Economics Department that was research active a rating on its research power and a grade point average on its research output. You can be confident that Departments with high GPA and power scores will be good places to undertake postgraduate studies. Your next step is to find out if the Department offers the Master’s you want. If it is just a straight Master’s in Economics, then all the top Departments are pretty much equal. If you want to specialise, then look at the prospectus to see what is offered and in which areas staff are research active. Are the staff who teach Master’s modules also publishing in that area of specialisation? Many Departments

have research centres that provide a focus for their research specialisations, and information on these will also be on the website.

Location and life By now you may have a shortlist of institutions that offer the Master’s you want. You should give some thought to their location. Some are city universities, with buildings clustered in a part of a city, such as the LSE, Bristol, Glasgow and Manchester. Most are campus universities. In some cases, such as Nottingham, the campus is close to the city centre. In others, the campus is outside the nearest city, such as Warwick. The cities themselves will differ, in size and in what they offer, but that is your own personal choice.

Entrance requirements The good Departments will require that applicants for a taught Master’s have a good honours degree in Economics, normally at least a 2.1 or equivalent. Often, extra weight is attached to the marks obtained in modules with a higher mathematical content, such as in economic theory or econometrics. Professor Oliver Morrissey Professor in Development Economics, School of Economics, University of Nottingham


www.internationalgraduate.net

Nottingham School of Economics MSc Courses in Economics The School offers nine MSc courses providing advanced level training in core areas of theoretical and quantitative economics plus an opportunity to specialise. Specific MSc courses include Behavioural Economics, International Economics, Development Economics, Econometrics and Financial Economics, often linked to one of the six Research Centres in the School. The School of Economics at the University of Nottingham is one of Britain’s leading Economics departments, dedicated to excellence in teaching and research (it was ranked third in the UK for the quality and volume of its research by the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise and achieved the maximum score of 24 in the last teaching quality assessment in 2001). The School has over 50 members of academic staff covering all areas of economics.

Research Activity The major areas of research interest are associated with five research centres, and reflected in specialist MSc courses:

• The Leverhulme Centre for Research on Globalisation and Economic Policy (GEP) is the focus for work on international trade and labour markets. • The Centre for Research in Economic Development and International Trade (CREDIT) works on developing countries, especially on aid, trade and poverty. • The Centre for Decision Research and Experimental Economics (CeDEx) undertakes work in behavioural, decision and experimental economics. • Centre for Finance and Credit Modelling (CFCM) for research on consumer behaviour and financial economics. • Granger Centre for Time Series Econometrics with a focus on theoretical methods and developments.

Taught Postgraduate Courses The School has an extensive Masters programme to appeal to different types of student with interests in different areas of Economics. There are typically about 120 Masters students; about 50% UK and EU, and 50% overseas, most from Asia and Africa. All modules are taught by staff with research interests in the particular area. There are nine MSc courses • Economics • Behavioural Economics • Economics and Development Economics • Economics and Econometrics • Economics and Financial Economics

• Economics and International Economics • Applied Economics • Applied Economics and Financial Economics • Economic Development and Policy Analysis

The School also offers a 9 month Diploma for those without a first degree in economics, which can lead to further MSc study. Postgraduate Research and Facilities The School has over 70 full-time postgraduate research students, and offers a number of scholarships each year (many linked to one of the research centres). All research students are provided with a desk and a PC in a shared office for the duration of their PhD.

Further Information contact: sarah.nolan@nottingham.ac.uk (quoting MBEGC)

www.nottingham.ac.uk/economics/ps/postgraduate/ Graduate Admissions, School of Economics, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD | Phone - +44 (0)115 951 5250 | Fax +44 (0)115 951 4159

33



www.internationalgraduate.net

Kingston Business School One of the largest business schools in the UK and situated in a green and pleasant part of London, Kingston Business School is a long established and leading provider of management and business education for business professionals at all stages in their career. Kingston Business School offers a range of postgraduate courses across a variety of business disciplines. Whether you are looking to develop your existing career further, or potentially looking at a career change, you can be assured that Kingston’s Master’s courses have been designed to meet the demands of today’s organisations and the ever changing global economy. • Accounting, Banking & Finance • Business Information Technology & Operations Management • Creative Industries

• Doctoral & Research • General Management • Leadership & Human Resource Management • Marketing & Strategy • Services Management

MBA The AMBA accredited Kingston MBA offers an intensive, stimulating and challenging learning experience, in an international environment. It will provide you with the knowledge and understanding of the broad disciplines of business and

management to assume a senior strategic management role.

whichever method you feel will enhance your study experience.

Kingston Law School

Location

Kingston Law School has been an established and growing centre of law teaching for 40 years. The School’s wide range of law degrees gives an excellent start for a career in law and in many other legal aspects of business as well as many other careers; in a friendly, productive and supportive law school. Kingston’s Law courses can be studied in a variety of modes to suit

More information www.business.kingston.ac.uk www.law.kingston.ac.uk

Kingston Business School and Law School are located on Kingston University’s leafy Kingston Hill campus, just over three miles from Kingston town centre. They are also within walking distance of Richmond Royal Park, and central London is only 25 minutes away by train.

I chose a world-class business school right on London’s doorstep Daniel Groenendijk MA International Business Management Daniel feels that studying a postgraduate degree at Kingston Business School delivered broad programme content, a great location and good value, enhancing his skills and employability. If you are considering postgraduate study in the UK then Kingston Business School is ideal. We are located in Kingston-Upon-Thames, a safe and green town about 30 minutes from the business centre of London.

Range of full and part-time courses starting in February 2011 and September 2011.

business.kingston.ac.uk

09


Politics

International Graduate UK

Packing political punch Consider the UK for politics UK politics courses provide an excellent basis for those seeking to launch their career in a range of political related areas. Politics courses are also ideal for those wishing to develop the skills necessary to pursue further advanced level studies in politics. Why study politics in the UK? The UK is a great place to study politics due to the unique political system in place. The UK operates under a constitutional monarchy, meaning that the monarch is the head of the state and the Prime Minister is the head of the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the two chambers of Parliament, the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The UK has a multi-party political system and since the 1920s, the two largest political parties have been the Conservative Party and the Labour Party. Though coalition and minority governments have been an occasional feature of parliamentary politics, the firstpast-the-post electoral system used for general elections tends to maintain the dominance of these two parties. Currently the UK is operating under a Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government, so now would be a great time to take up political studies in the UK.

10

Availability of politics courses in the UK Politics is a very popular course in the UK and is offered in a variety of ways and combinations. For example, Leeds University offers postgraduate politics as a pure degree or with a parliamentary or political theory pathway or as political communication. Other universities around the UK offer politics combined with international studies or relations. Many universities around the UK offer politics courses so it’s worth looking at a selection of courses and universities to see which would suit you best. What politics courses in the UK cover Politics courses in the UK will cover a number of core topics, including: • Political Concepts • Political Theory • Political Communication • Political Economy • Political Philosophy • British Politics • International Relations • Legislative Studies • Terrorism and War Most universities expect that applicants will already have some relevant political knowledge, so it is worth consulting the university directly before applying if politics is a new subject to you.


www.internationalgraduate.net

Politics is a subject that many students find interesting as it affects our lives on a daily basis. As the 21st century elapses further, politics is becoming an ever increasing factor of importance within society. The rise in worldwide terrorism, financial crisis and fears for the environment have all significantly altered political priorities. Politics courses in the UK therefore aim to offer students a firm grounding in political analysis and a critical insight into real politics.

Entry requirements for politics courses in the UK Typically UK universities will ask for an upper second-class or first class honours Bachelor’s degree in a social science or an equivalent professional qualification for postgraduate courses. If no relevant qualification is held, relevant experience and other good degree grades will be taken into account. If you narrowly missed securing an upper second-class grade, you should inform the university you have applied to of your circumstances so that you can be considered on an individual basis. All politics courses in the UK are taught in English and all assessments are written in English. To be accepted onto a course, so you must be able to prove your English proficiency. Typical language requirements include: • TOEFL score on the paper-based test, at least 600 • TOEFL score on the internetbased test, at least 100 • TOEFL score on the computerbased test, at least 240 • A minimum IELTS (academic) score of 6.5 Please remember, requirements will variety depending on the academic ability of the university you are applying to.

Career prospects following politics courses in the UK Following a course in politics, there are many directions in which you can take your career in the UK or in your home country.

constituency, parliamentary and publicity support for elected politicians • Government research officer - Design, formulate and conduct social research

“Currently the UK is operating under a Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government, so now would be a great time to take up political studies in the UK.”

• Public affairs consultant - Use your understanding of the political system to provide political and public policy advice to your clients • Politician's assistant - Provide administrative, research,

projects. Information is collected through a variety of research techniques, the results of which may be used to shape policy or to examine the effectiveness of existing policies

• Social researcher - Designs, formulates, carries out and manages social research projects • Civil service workers Including policy advisers, project leaders and consultants • Political journalist or correspondent – Covering political stories for print of broadcast journalism Other options If you are not yet ready to start full-time work in the politics sector, there are a variety of other opportunities in which you can gain experience. Volunteering for example at political groups or local and national charities within the UK or your home country. If you wanted to travel further afield from your home country and your country of study, organisations like Amnesty International and Oxfam may give you the opportunity to travel worldwide. To gain further experience to enhance your career prospects, students should take part in extra curricular activities during their studies, such as participating in the university students union or volunteering in the local community. By doing so, this will show future employers you have a keen interest in politics and it will also help you to develop your written and spoken English skills further.

11


Economics

International Graduate UK

Economic demand As the global economic downturn dominates the news, economists are much in demand for their opinions on both the causes of the crisis and possible solutions. There are, however, several other important reasons why taking an economics programme can be beneficial for a future career! 1. Economists are trained to see the ‘bigger picture’

12

A postgraduate programme in economics equips students with the analytical tools necessary to understand how the economy really works, through the interconnections between consumers, firms and governments. It is the economists who are called upon to provide answers to questions like: What are the causes and consequences of the credit crunch? Which countries will be worst affected? What will the long term effects be? How does the global economy go back to a steady path of growth? Economists are able to offer answers to questions like these because their training allows them to integrate different facts about what is happening both globally and regionally, to view those facts from a historical perspective and to predict what the likely outcomes may be.

as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, European Central Bank and other central banks and government departments all advertise jobs solely for economists. Employment opportunities do not stop there but, naturally, extend to the financial sector and for multinational corporations where analytical skills and strategic thinking play a vital role in decision making. The combination of skills is unique to economists and is one of the reasons why the demand for economists remains high. Economics programmes typically cover a large breadth of subjects, from the highly mathematical themes of microeconomics and econometrics to the more subjective areas such as development economics and public policy.

2. Employability

3. Creative thinking

The demand for economics graduates in a wide range of careers remains high. Organisations such

Economists have to master both quantitative and qualitative skills and develop the ability to undertake

research and to employ creative thinking. The study of economics involves understanding the tools economists use to analyse a variety of economic problems. It is the search for explanations of particular behaviour of economic actors (households, firms and governments) that requires the use of creative thinking. No set of economic circumstances is exactly the same as any other, therefore any explanation behind it must also be different.

4. Economics is a constantly evolving subject One of the most intriguing aspects of the study of economics is that the subject is constantly evolving and being re-evaluated. While, for example, some economists will be now working hard to find ways to deal with the current economic crisis, others will be researching the causes of the phenomenon and how it would have been prevented. Exactly how the global economy went from an unprecedented period of growth and stability into recession in such a short space of time is a challenging question which will occupy economists for many years. This constant evolution of economic conditions often demands a similar evolution in the thinking of economists to explain the changes, at the heart of this are the skills and techniques which many economists first encounter on their university programme.

5. Specialisation Many economics programmes allow you to specialise in a certain area which can, in turn, lead to a specialist career. By choosing a programme with a specialism in, for example, econometrics, public economics, development, banking or finance will give you the core expertise in economics with a greater depth in your chosen area of interest which can be an advantage in applying for specialist jobs.

6. Opportunities for further study Why stop at a Master’s qualification? The analytical skills you will develop during a postgraduate qualification in economics will not only enable you to succeed in a wide range of vocations but they also form the foundations for further studies and the opportunity to forge a career in academia. Many students who undertake a postgraduate programme in economics go on to study at PhD level because they find an area of economics that excites them and they wish to pursue their interest further. By choosing an economics programme which is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) you can be sure that the programme will equip you with all of the necessary research skills to undertake a PhD thesis.


www.internationalgraduate.net

SeriouS about economicS? Economics at Exeter We are a leading department of Economics in the UK with an internationally renowned faculty producing high quality research. We offer a variety of taught masters programmes and MPhil/PhD research supervision in a number of areas.

MSc Programmes: • MSc Economics • MSc Financial Economics • MSc Money and Banking • MSc Economics and Econometrics • MSc Experimental Economics

MPhil/PhD Research supervision areas: • Economic Theory • Econometrics • Public and International Economics • Development Economics • Financial Economics Find out more about our postgraduate Economics programmes and funding opportunities at: www.business-school.exeter.ac.uk/ programmes/postgraduate/economics

University of Exeter Business School To order, or download, a prospectus go to: www.business-school.exeter.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate/economics Telephone: +44 (0)1392 723200 Email: business-school-msc@exeter.ac.uk

33


Mathematics

International Graduate UK

Fulfil your ambitions Study a postgraduate course in statistics, mathematics or actuarial science at the University of Kent, Canterbury, UK Kent occupies a large and very attractive campus overlooking the cathedral city of Canterbury. Much of the available accommodation is full en-suite and we can offer accommodation on a fully catered or self-catering basis. The campus has a variety of shops, bars, restaurants, refectories and an award-winning nightclub, together with well equipped teaching spaces, all of which makes for a thriving student community. The Graduate School provides a supportive infrastructure, enhancing the intellectual development of all postgraduates who study at Kent. Woolf College was recently opened, catering to the specific academic and residential needs of postgraduate students. Kent is committed to excellence in postgraduate training and has an excellent postgraduate employability record: 97.6 per cent of our postgraduate students who graduated in 2007 found a job or further study opportunity within six months. School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science The School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science has existed from the earliest days of the University of Kent and is part of the Faculty of Science. Currently there are three academic groups within the School: Actuarial Science, Mathematics and Statistics. Taught programmes Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial Science MSc in Applied Actuarial Science MSc in Finance, Investment and Risk MSc in Mathematics and its Applications MSc in Statistics

14

Actuarial Science: Qualifying as an actuary is a passport to a wide variety of careers in insurance companies, investments, pensions, healthcare and banking, not just in the UK, but throughout the world. The Actuarial Science Group at the University of Kent includes 13 professionally qualified actuaries with many years practical experience in insurance, pensions and consultancy and maintains excellent links with the Actuarial Profession. Our actuarial science programmes are accredited by the UK Actuarial Profession and are designed to give your actuarial career a head start. The principal feature of the actuarial science programmes at Kent is the exemptions that successful students can gain from the professional examinations of the UK Actuarial Profession. The successful completion of these programmes leads to excellent job prospects, as demonstrated by the strong graduate employment record of our actuarial science students.

to CT8 of the UK Actuarial Profession’s examinations. • Presentation of material by experienced practitioners. • Introduction to PROPHET, the market leading actuarial software package. • Opportunity to continue to a higher level on our MSc programme at a discounted rate and gain further exemptions. MSc in Applied Actuarial Science Available as a full-time or part-time programme, suitable for those who have completed a first degree or postgraduate diploma in actuarial science, or those who have studied the majority of the earlier subjects within the Profession.

Based on a core plus options structure, exemptions can be gained from the following professional examinations: • CA1 – Actuarial Risk Management* • CA3 – Communications* • ST2 – Life Insurance • ST4 – Pensions and other Benefits • ST5 – Finance and Investment A Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial • ST6 – Finance and Investment B Science • ST7 – General Insurance – • Suitable for candidates who Reserving and Capital Modelling have successfully completed a • ST8 – General Insurance – Pricing numerate first degree. •ST9 – Enterprise Risk Management • Potential exemption from CT1 *Compulsory modules

We also prepare candidates for the Profession’s computer modelling course (CA2) and offer the option to study the PROPHET system to a higher level. An International Master’s in Applied Actuarial Science is also available. This is a two-year course: the first year covers the subjects taught in the Diploma and the second year covers the subjects taught in the MSc. MSc in Finance, Investment and Risk Recent global economic events have resulted from a number of regulatory, political, ethical and other factors, all interacting in a complex way. The financial markets will recover and employers will once again start to recruit; the graduates of this programme will be in a strong position to secure new and exciting positions in the financial world. This unique programme is offered by the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science and provides the essential knowledge base in quantitative finance, investment analysis and portfolio management with financial risk analysis playing an


www.internationalgraduate.net important role. The recent crisis in the financial sector has highlighted the importance of understanding and managing risk as an integral part of the body of knowledge required for finance, investment and insurance industries. This flexible qualification opens up your career opportunities in investment banks, financial and management consultancies, auditing firms, risk management departments of financial institutions and government departments. The programme has an international perspective and aims to offer academic rigour combined with practical application and vocational orientation. MSc Mathematics and its Applications An MSc for honours graduates seeking to increase their knowledge, skills and creativity in applicable mathematics. If you love mathematics, want to learn more and like to find out about the wider relevance and application of what you are learning, then this MSc is for you.

The Mathematics Group at the University of Kent is highly qualified to lead your studies in mathematics and has a strong commitment to student achievement and to developing students’ creativity. The programme has been designed for recent honours graduates seeking to enhance their employability or thinking of doing a PhD but wanting an extra year, as well as for teachers of mathematics in schools wanting to develop their mathematical knowledge, communication and project design skills. The MSc consists of six taught modules from a list of options, a Mathematical Inquiry and Communication module and a dissertation. The dissertation module will involve longer independent study carried out under the supervision of a member of staff of the Mathematics group. Chosen by the student from a wide range of topics, the dissertation may take the form of an in-depth exposition, a longer open-ended investigation, or a multimedia presentation designed for a more general audience.

Mathematics graduates enjoy a wide range of careers in many science and engineering based industries, as well as in banking and finance; many employers take the view that if you can do mathematics, they can teach you the rest. An International Master’s in Mathematics and its Applications is also available which is a two year course. The first year consists of modules equivalent to the final year of an honours BSc including a language option. The second year is the regular MSc in Mathematics and its Applications. MSc Statistics In an increasingly data-driven world, the role of statisticians is becoming ever more important. Statisticians use mathematical, computational and graphical techniques to understand, analyse and model complex data sets. The one-year MSc programme in Statistics at Kent, which is accredited by the Royal Statistical Society, is a wellestablished programme that can help to launch you on a career

University of Kent

School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science The School has a multinational staff comprising some of the world’s most talented researchers. A high proportion of research output in Statistics and Applied Mathematics was judged to be internationally excellent in the 2008 RAE. Funding is available for a limited number of high calibre postgraduate research students. Potential applicants for the research programmes are encouraged to review the web pages and to contact staff members for more information about research interests.

in statistics or provide a firm foundation for a subsequent PhD. Although the MSc is primarily a taught degree, one third of the total credits come from a substantial individually-supervised project. The Statistics Group at Kent has 12 full-time academic staff, making it one of the larger academic statistics groups in the UK. Graduates from the MSc in Statistics have taken up employment in diverse areas of the public and private sectors, including the pharmaceutical industry, the financial sector and the Government Statistical Service. Others have taken up academic posts in medical research or continued their studies in Statistics by undertaking a PhD. For further information contact: Tel: +44 (0)1227 827181 E: imsadmin@kent.ac.uk www.kent.ac.uk/IMS/ postgraduate/index.html To view the Graduate Prospectus 2010: www.kent.ac.uk/ studying/postgrad/

Taught Programmes

• Postgraduate Diploma in Actuarial Science • MSc in Applied Actuarial Science • MSc in Finance, Investment and Risk • MSc in Mathematics and its Applications • MSc in Statistics

Research Programmes

The School also offers PhD, MPhil and MSc by research in Actuarial Science, Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics and Statistics in the following areas: • economic capital, risk management, stochastic modelling; • mortality trend risks, mortality rating, longevity markaets, genetics and insurance, insurance economics and accident compensation; • nonlinear phenomena, applied analysis and differential equations, geometric integration, integrable systems, Lie groups and moving frames, mathematical physics and quantum groups, representation theory and invariant theory, computational algebra, discrete mathematics and functional analysis • applied probability, biological modelling, Bayesian methods, particularly Bayesian nonparametrics, chemometrics, biostatistics, ecological statistics, epidemics, time series and finance, statistics of shapes, and risk

For further information contact: T: +44 (0)1227 827181 | E: imsadmin@kent.ac.uk www.kent.ac.uk/IMS/postgraduate | To view the Graduate Prospectus 2010: www.kent.ac.uk/studying/postgrad

15


Geomatics

International Graduate UK

Studying Geomatics…. ….if a picture paints a thousand words, a map can paint a million Spring 2010 and the media has gone ‘map-mad’ with three broadcast series: on Radio 4 Mike Parker’s “On the Map”, on BBC4 Jerry Brotton’s “Maps: Power, Plunder and Possession” and Steven Clarke’s “The Beauty of Maps”. Programmes are characterised by amateurs discovering mapping. But it could be your profession. Geomatics (gathering, storing, processing, delivering geographic information) is the profession, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (http://www.rics.org/) and Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (http://www. cices.org/) are the internationally recognised professional bodies. Is Geomatics the same as mapping? Not wholly, but Geomatics’ definition includes delivering geographic information – maps do that. Geographic information was once delivered as ink-drawn representations of three-dimensional space on linen (mappa: Latin for cloth) then paper, but now on computer screens. The newest visualisations support three-dimensional dynamic representations – bringing modern mapping close to that of computer gaming. What about gathering geographic information? Information is geographic once positioned. Atmospheric SO2 measurements are geographic once we know where the observations were taken. Or peat-depth, noise decibels, population density, ocean-depth, land-parcel size. The list goes on. Positioning observations (by Latitude/Longitude, or Eastings/ Northings, and elevation above

16

sea-level) seems easy using GPS (or GNSS) receivers. But GPS is not the only way; we also use laser-scanners, aerial photos, satellite images, and all the technologies predating GPS including theodolites and levels. Understanding the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of positioning technologies is the Geomatician’s responsibility.

Preparing map update using new aerial photography

Storing the geographic information? Recent Geomatics research has addressed making geographic information freely available. Geospatial databasing theory and accompanying legislation have emerged. Formerly controlled by single enterprises (e.g. Great Britain’s Ordnance Survey or Her Majesty’s Land Registry), geospatial databases are now accessible to all across the internet. As internet technology improves, the databases will evolve. Geomaticians need to understand and exploit these developments. Within Geomatics there are specialists – cartographers close to

Two map designs meeting different user needs

the user where map design is an issue; surveyors in the field (land, sea, air or space) where quality measurements are made under exacting conditions; database designers in the office maintaining the geospatial database supporting important decision making, talking to users answering new geographic questions (What is the volcanic ash’s altitude? Which rural bus route picks up most schoolchildren?). And generalists, interacting with all the discipline’s components.

• Applied Population and Statistical Mapping; • Landscape Monitoring and Mapping;

Career prospects in both public and private sector are good. Professionally accredited Geomatics MSc degrees are offered by:

Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, University College London (http://www.cege.ucl.ac.uk/ teaching/postgraduate):

Geographical and Earth Sciences, University of Glasgow (www. ges.gla.ac.uk:443/degrees/ postgraduate/courses): • Geospatial and Mapping Sciences; • Geoinformation Technology and Cartography;

Institute of Engineering Survey and Space Geodesy, University of Nottingham (http://www.nottingham. ac.uk/iessg/courses/msc.php): • GNSS Technology; • Engineering Surveying and Geodesy; • Environmental Management and Earth Observation; • Positioning and Navigation Technology;

• Environmental Mapping; • Geographic Information Science; • Hydrographic Surveying; • Photogrammetry with Remote Sensing; • Remote Sensing; • Surveying. So take the opportunity to build on your enthusiasms!


www.internationalgraduate.net

Geographical & Earth Sciences Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is the 4th oldest university in the UK.

MSc in Geospatial & Mapping Sciences

…. if a picture paints a thousand words, a map can paint a million ….. Build on your enthusiasms ! The Department of Geographical and Earth Sciences has offered qualifications in map related disciplines since 1963. With an international reputation for Geomatics teaching, its courses are characterised by a close involvement with this sector. As well as our own professionally accredited staff, support through invited lecturers, industry guided practicals and specialist equipment is generously provided. Current research focuses on applications of radar imagery (INSAR) to deformation studies; laser-scanning to coast zone and historic building monitoring; hyperspectral data for habitat mapping; the visualisation of multi-dimensional environments and GIS data quality.

The programme consists of a core components (land survey; aerial survey & satellite remote sensing; GIS; coordinate systems and map projections; engineering survey; hydrographic survey; geodesy and GPS), options (LIS, remote sensing, close range photogrammetry; terrestrial laserscanning; deformation monitoring) and a project. The student projects, relate to the departmental research, students’ personal interests or an employers’ needs. A quarter of our students are part-time and employed in the Geomatics sector, released by their employers one or two days a week; their projects address their employers’ challenges, including infrastructure preparation for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014, historic building survey and school atlas design. Employability is very good.

Our diverse University community is something we are very proud of at Glasgow, providing a rich culture, social and educational mix which appeals to students and staff from all over the world. By choosing to study here you will join students from over 100 different countries, making up 15% of our total student community; last year the university welcomed around 3,000 international students

The relevant professional bodies (The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors) have supported the programmes through accreditation. Qualify for a research or professional career in Geomatics at the University of Glasgow ! Linked degrees offered by Geographical and Earth Science at the University of Glasgow: • MSc in Geoinformation Technology and Cartography • MSc in Applied Population and Statistical mapping • MSc in Landscape Monitoring and Mapping For further information see: www.ges.gla.ac.uk:443/degrees/postgradu ate/courses

17 09


Biomedicine

International Graduate UK

Postgraduate courses to

kick-start your career in biomedicine The success of managing, treating and preventing human diseases is dependent upon a thorough understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying such diseases. It is the need for this understanding that drives our innovative research into contemporary human diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, respiratory diseases, infectious diseases, cardiovascular disease and aging. Our Department was assessed as ‘world leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ in the recent 2008 UK-wide Research Assessment Exercise. The continued success of the Department of Biological Sciences has led to a multimillion pound investment by the University of Hull with complete refurbishment of our research and teaching laboratories, and the establishment of dedicated core facilities with state-of-theart instrumentation, critical for the detailed study of molecular and cellular processes. Recent major investments focused on the promotion of translational research (from bench to bedside) has further consolidated our highly collaborative research, with close links to clinical and non-clinical colleagues from the Hull York Medical School (HYMS), the Clinical Biosciences Institute and the new DAISY building at Castle Hill Hospital. Our department is further benefiting from excellent library and computer services, with a wide range of current periodicals and online information services. The solid reputation for highquality research coupled with an excellent research infra-structure, means that after joining our Department you will become part of a vibrant, forward thinking scientific community, providing an excellent environment for your postgraduate training.

Biomedical Sciences MSc The aim of this course is to upgrade your knowledge,

18

understanding and skills in clinical and laboratory aspects of modern biomedical sciences. You will design your own master degree by choosing five Advanced Modules covering major biomedicine-related topics, including Haematology, Cellular Pathology, Medical Microbiology, Molecular and Medical Parasitology, Clinical Chemistry, Infection Control, Applied Molecular Biology and Regulation of Gene Expression, Muscle Fitness and Failure, Reviews in Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Introduction to Drug Discovery, plus one core module: Research Skills for the Biosciences. By the end of this course you will master key skills required for a career in hospital pathology services, or in academic or pharmaceutical environments.

Molecular Medicine MSc This course aims to expand your knowledge and skills in molecular and medical aspects of biomedicine-related sciences. It has four core modules: Advanced Applied Molecular Biology and Regulation of Gene Expression, Advanced Molecular and Medical Parasitology, Practical DNA Sequencing and Bioinformatics, and Research Skills in the Biosciences. Two additional modules are chosen, one from the Advanced Modules in Cell Pathology, Haemotology, Medical

Microbiology, and Clinical Chemistry and a further module from Advanced Muscle Fitness and Failure, Advanced Reviews in Biology and Biomedical Sciences, or Introduction to Drug Discovery. By the end of this course you will master key skills required for a research career in pharmaceutical or academic environments.

Programme Structure As a taught MSc student, you will undertake a two-semester taught programme to attain the level of Postgraduate Diploma. Modules are taught by academic staff from the Department and by expert speakers associated with the clinical profession. The final MSc stage of your study includes a three-month research project and the completion of a Master’s Thesis. Your research project will be carried out in one of our Biomedical Sciences research groups, under the supervision of expert academic staff. The total duration of our fulltime taught MSc programmes is one calendar year.

Eligibility and Fees Pre-requisite for both courses is an honours degree with a minimum qualification of 2:1 or equivalent. For the Biomedical Sciences MSc, basic knowledge of at least one of the clinical disciplines is expected. These include: Cell Pathology, Haematology, Clinical Chemistry and Medical Microbiology. For the Molecular Medicine MSc, basic knowledge of the molecular and/or medical life sciences is expected. Applicants with non-standard qualifications may also apply to both courses, as appropriate experience will be taken into account during the selection process. In particular, those with a significant vocational experience in research or industrial laboratories are encouraged to apply. International students must have appropriate English Language competence at IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 550 or equivalent. Up-to-date information about fees and scholarships can be found at http://www2.hull.ac.uk/pg.aspx.

How To Apply and Contact More information and details of how to apply for our postgraduate programmes can be found at: http://www2.hull.ac.uk/pg.aspx or http://www2.hull.ac.uk/science/biological_sciences.aspx. You can also contact our Departmental Postgraduate Admissions Secretary, Mrs Emma M. Doy, for more information. Telephone: +44 (0)1482 466169 E-mail: e.m.doy@hull.ac.uk or biosci@hull.ac.uk.


www.internationalgraduate.net

13 17


Arts

International Graduate UK

Creative opportunities at Brunel University The School of Arts at Brunel University offers single and joint honours undergraduate programmes, taught Master’s programmes and postgraduate research opportunities in the creative arts. Based at our West London campus in Uxbridge you will be close to the UK’s main international airport, Heathrow. The campus is about 45 minutes by train from Central London where all the attractions of that famous city, including music and sports venues, art galleries, theatres, museums and shopping, can be enjoyed.

Our relaxed, traffic-free site offers a pleasant environment for studying with all the benefits of excellent on-campus facilities and accommodation. Campus life includes student clubs and societies, sports and leisure activities and student union events. You can also enjoy productions at the School’s Antonin Artaud Performance Centre, activities at the campus Arts Centre (which organises tuition, performances and exhibitions across a range of arts), take

part in the student radio station, B1000, or contribute to the various student magazines.

through your studies enabling you to get the most out of your course.

One of the benefits of studying the arts as an undergraduate student at Brunel is the opportunity to combine subjects as a joint or combined honours degree. This doesn’t mean that you have to do twice the amount of work but it will mean that you have a broader range of research interests. On arrival you will be given a personal tutor who will advise and guide you

As befits a university with Brunel’s history and reputation, research is at the heart of all we do. It underpins - indeed leads to - most of the taught programmes we offer and informs the academic work of our postgraduate students. Postgraduates also benefit from the academic and pastoral support provided by the University-wide Graduate School.

THE SCHOOL OF ARTS A unique centre for creative opportunities BA English BA Creative Writing BA Music BA Sonic Arts BMus Musical Composition BMus Musical Performance BA Theatre (approved in principle) BA Film and Television Studies BA Journalism (seeking NCTJ accreditation) BA Games Design Joint Honours BA Performance and Digital Arts (approved in principle) Some of our undergraduate programmes may be taken as a joint honours combination

For undergraduate contact: ug-arts-admissions@brunel.ac.uk

MA Cult Film and Television MA Documentary Practice MA Digital Games: Theory and Design MA Contemporary Performance Making MA Contemporary Literature and Culture MA Creative Writing: The Novel MA Shakespeare Authorship Studies MA Journalism (NCTJ accredited) MA International Journalism MMus/MA Twenty-First-Century Music MPhil and PhD programmes are also available

For postgraduate contact: pg-arts-admissions@brunel.ac.uk

www.brunel.ac.uk 10 20


Volume 11 Issue 6

p o s t g r a d u a t e

o p p o r t u n i t i e s

Sweden New tuition fees for international students

i n

e u r o p e

Hidden gems of Finland

Helsinki living, Helsinki style

w w w . i n t e r n a t i o n a l g r a d u a t e . n e t 09


Finland Attractions

International Graduate Europe

Hidden gems of Finland Finland is one of the most industrialised countries in the world. It has a rich cultural and historical background and its modern and fast-paced lifestyle is what attracts people to visit. Finland has its own share of natural beauty and wonders such as the Northern Lights, which are definitely a magical experience. Below are some top attractions to visit during your stay in Finland. Lapland Lapland is one of the world’s most wild and untouched regions, sparsely populated with friendly and welcoming people. With wide open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, crystal clear lakes and foaming rapids, this region offers tourists the holiday of a lifetime. Here you will find some really good skiing resorts, the most popular one being the Levi ski resort. And of course, we can’t forget that Lapland is also the home of Santa Claus. Pay a visit to Santapark (a Santa themed amusement park) and meet Santa himself! Turku Turku is the oldest and most fascinating of Finland’s medieval towns. This 750-year-old town has a fully restored 13th century castle that is now a Viking museum. Its medieval Gothic cathedral is one of the most impressive in Finland. The Handicrafts Museum is located in the old town where most of the original medieval houses still stand. If you visit near Christmas, Turku is regarded as Finland’s Christmas City. In the old great square at noon every Christmas Eve, a crowd of several thousand people gather to listen to a Christmas peace declaration which has resounded

22

throughout Finland since the middle ages. Ainola Ainola stands on the scenic shores of Lake Tuusula in Järvenpää, about a 30 minute drive from Helsinki. It is the place where Finland’s greatest composer Jean Sibelius spent most of his life. Absorb the calmness and gain a sense of the world in which the composer and his family lived. When he was composing, Sibelius insisted on silence, as he believed that music should be heard without disturbance from noise. For this reason, none of the composer’s work is amplified through loudspeakers in an effort to create the same mood. The Åland Islands This group of islands off the Finnish coast are so unique. They have their own distinct culture, flag, and postage stamps. This self-governing mini-archipelago is dotted with medieval churches and old fishing villages. This is the perfect spot for cycling and camping and cabin holidays. The Island Fortress of Suomenlinna The 18th century Fortress of Suomenlinna is a must-see on any

trip to Finland. It is located on an island at the entrance to Helsinki harbour and has been a World Heritage Treasure since 1991. The unique fortress is a fine example of European military architecture. With 900 permanent residents, this tiny island has an impressive collection of museums, galleries, cafes and restaurants to keep you busy. The King’s Road The King’s Road is the historical route between the old northern capitals of Oslo, Stockholm, Turku, Helsinki and St. Petersburg. Dating back to the 13th century, the ancient road winds along the Finnish southern coastline past castles, manor houses and cottages. Originally, the King’s Road served as an important connection between Sweden and Russia. The taverns and inns that offered refuge to weary travellers can still be found. Old Rauma Declared as a World Heritage Site, Old Rauma is one of the oldest harbours in Finland, as well as displaying an impressive array of ancient vernacular architecture. Many of the preserved buildings are still functional and are still being used by craftsmen, goldsmiths, and furniture makers. Old Rauma

also contains one of the narrowest streets in Finland. The 15th century Franciscan Holy Cross Church and the Rauma Museum, located in the town hall, are also worth a visit. Retretti Art Centre, Punkaharju The Retretti Art Centre, Punkaharju is known for its highly unique exhibition space which features a ground level building and an underground space hollowed out of bedrock. The labyrinthine space is used as the area where contemporary art exhibits are displayed and the exhibitions are as stunning as their surroundings. St. Olaf’s Castle, Olavinlinna Balanced on the edge of a tiny green island in a lake, this beautiful 500 year-old castle resembles that of a fairytale castle, and unsurprisingly is Finland’s most visited site. Founded in 1475, it is made up of the main castle as well as three towers and a bailey with a surrounding wall reinforced by towers. At the base of the castle stands the orthodox museum, displaying Russian Orthodox artefacts from Finland and Russia.

By Laura Proto


www.internationalgraduate.net

29


Hensinki

International Graduate Europe

Helsinki living, Helsinki style “The Best Country in the World” Newsweek magazine

Helsinki, the “Daughter of the Baltic”, was founded in 1550 and has been Finland’s capital since 1812. Set up as a trading post to rival the Hanseatic leagues port in Tallinn; Helsinki was also regarded as a strategic military centre, a point of embarkation for troops and a winter haven for the navy. Today, Helsinki is considered to be a pocket-sized metropolis. Helsinki has a current

24

population of about 575,000, but when the Greater Helsinki region is included, the neighboring cities of Espoo and Vantaa increase the population to over 1.3 million. In addition to the urban area of Helsinki, a beautiful archipelago of 315 islands surrounds the city centre. There are large and small islands that can be visited variously by foot, bicycle, tram, car, bus, and ferry.

Helsinki, and Finland in general, are often remarked upon for their quality of life and livability. Many times this stems from many little, everyday things that Finns take for granted like bicycle lanes. The city of Helsinki alone has over 1000km of bicycle lanes! Often mentioned with little fanfare just in 2010, Helsinki is considered the top eco-city in Europe by the Mercer

index, “The Best Country in the World” by Newsweek magazine, and both The Economist and Monocle have ranked Helsinki as the 6th and 5th, respectively, on their “Most Livable Cities” lists. This unassuming place also lists education at all levels as a high priority. Finland ranked number one in the OECD’s PISA rankings of high school students in reading, science and literacy.


www.internationalgraduate.net

And with some of Finland’s best higher education opportunities in Helsinki, you know that your Finnish classmates will be the best. Helsinki is an accessible and innovative city. Because of this emphasis on education, it is also easy to get by in English in the capital city. Everyday transactions are easy for international students who are just settling down and haven’t started learning Finnish yet. And for anyone who has an eye on being the next Bill Gates or Steve Jobs, the Otaniemi area is the biggest technology hub in the Nordic countries and has twice been selected by the EU as one of the most innovative regions in Europe. A unique feature of Otaniemi is the intense co-operation between companies and research organisations. Otaniemi is a scientific and innovation community of 16,000 students and 16,000 professionals from almost 100 countries as well as over 800 high-tech companies from start-ups to multinational corporations. Renowned for design and architecture, Helsinki was

designated the World Design Capital for 2012. Helsinki is throwing itself into preparations to highlight everything it has to offer. Expectations are running high inside and outside the city of Helsinki to bring out the best of what seems to be putting this little country and city on the top of many lists! Taking education and sustainability seriously does not impact at all on the fun or the opportunities that can be had in this Nordic city. Helsinki is full of all types of places to while away an afternoon or evening - cold or not. From the Kiasma Modern Art Museum and the Design District of shops with Finnish and international creations, to the movies theatres and live music venues, Helsinki has a wide variety of entertainment to see you through the whole year. Helsinki is a modern, eco-friendly city which takes your safety and comfort seriously. It also provides a place for creative, out of the box thinking. If your challenge has been to find a place that is cutting edge but while integrating nature, open spaces, and sustainability then Helsinki is the place for you!

Aalto University-

Where science and art meet technology and business By merging Finland’s premier business, technology, and art and design universities in 2010, the resulting institution, Aalto University, envisions a future that is international, multi-disciplinary, and full of opportunities. We believe that the various combinations of these subjects opens up new possibilities for strong multidisciplinary education and research. Education must offer opportunities rather than ready-made solutions. Combining disciplines allows our students to plan their own study programmes based on their interests, career objectives and strengths. We encourage our students to look at their subjects and explore where collaborations can be made. We aren’t only interested in how your studies will shape you but how you can shape your discipline? Aalto University is focussed on a student-centred, enthusiastic culture where critical thinking and an open mind are essential. These are the ingredients that will ensure success in tackling major global issues. For this reason, we strive to create an environment where all work at the university promotes equality, ethicality, and transparency. Aalto provides world-class education in science, technology, business and industrial arts or a combination of these. As the boundaries of these disciplines blur, we look to the future to see where technology, business and design will take us and our students. This is where we want to be!

25


Finland

International Graduate Europe

Build your competences in Jyväskylä, Central Finland JAMK University of Applied Sciences is an attractive, internationally oriented higher education institution with a strong role among the developers of the Jyväskylä region and Central Finland. The number of students is 8,000. Jyväskylä, as a city known for its educational institutions, attracts young people. JAMK University of Applied Sciences is oriented towards working life. We offer firstand second-cycle degree education (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees), open studies, continuing education, and vocational teacher education. We maintain close contacts with regional enterprises and organisations.The orientation of JAMK’s education and the contents of the various curricula are based on the needs of working life.

education. We have partners in more than 40 countries around the globe. Over 2,500 international degree and exchange students have contributed to the internationalisation of JAMK and the city of Jyväskylä over the past 10 years, while enjoying JAMK’s high quality education and the opportunity to complete their studies in close interaction with working life.

Success in the national comparison JAMK proved to be the best university of applied sciences in Finland year 2010 according to a report made by the Ministry of Education and Culture. The overall public image of JAMK has been rated as the best among the universities of applied sciences in Finland. JAMK’s popularity as a study environment and the versatility of its fields of study can be regarded as the cornerstones of its public image.

Facility Management Bachelor of Hospitality Management, 240 credits (4 years) Facility Management is the ideal programme for you if you want to manage and organise services in hotels, tourist resorts, conference centres, business organisations or public offices. In practice you will learn to manage and maintain premises, develop business service plans and products, organise hospitality services, create user-friendly workplace designs, and design effective security measures– to put it in a nutshell, to ensure that everything is available and operating properly.

International orientation We are an internationally oriented institution of higher

26

Bachelor’s Degrees at JAMK

International business Bachelor of Business Administration, 210 credits (3,5 years) Global business demands highly skilled managers, and we will prepare you with the knowledge and practical skills you need to succeed! In addition to developing a core foundation of business knowledge, you will learn to actively plan and manage projects, work in multicultural teams and develop your business decision making skills. Our unique High-Tech Management and Global Operations Management study track options will allow you to focus your studies toward specific types of growth and internationally-oriented businesses. Double degree programmes with French, German andRussian partners offer you an opportunity to gain two diplomas. Logistics engineering Bachelor of Engineering, 240 credits (4 years) Have you ever thought how the item you order through internet gets to your mailbox? It’s all about logistics. Travellers get

to the destination, items end up to stores and airplanes fly with minimum pit stops and without delays. As a logistics engineer you will plan and control the efficient flow and storage of goods, services and related information in the supply chain in order to meet the customer requirements. During your studies you will also have an opportunity to focus on the field of aviation. Music and media management Bachelor of Culture and Arts, 240 credits (4 years) The entertainment industry calls for qualified managers. We prepare you with the skills that help you succeed in the music and media business. You will learn how to manage and combine global trends and new technological solutions into successful business projects. You will gain the skills to create innovative new products, organise large-scale events and design marketing and production plans.You also have the option of earning a double degree with our Dutch partner in which a diploma is awarded to you from each institution.


www.internationalgraduate.net

Nursing Bachelor of Health Care, 210 credits (3,5 years) Learn how to plan, implement and develop nursing. Learn how to provide nursing care, help, support and rehabilitation. Get a career in Nursing! Graduates have various career opportunities

in social and healthcare organisations. Opportunities vary from basic health care and social services to specialised nursing completed in companies, organisations and in private homes. The degree also offers the opportunity to develop a career as a private entrepreneur.

How to apply to JAMK: Apply at 3.1.-15.2.2011 through the joint application system in www.admissions.fi Further information about: • Applying to JAMK: admissions@jamk.fi • Degree programmes: www.jamk.fi/english • Jyväskylä: www.jkl.fi/lang/

Interested in Master’s degrees? Apply for a Master’s degree programme at JAMK University of Applied Sciences at 7.3. – 12.4.2011. • International Business Management, 90 credits (2 years) • Information Technology, 60 credits (2 years)

27


Sweden

International Graduate Europe

Sweden changes tuition fees How will this effect international students? In the last decade, the number of international students has more than tripled, totalling 36,000 in 2008/2009. The Swedish government now wants to reallocate some of this money to reward universities that show particular excellence. Exceptions to paying tuition fees • Swedish citizens • EU/EEA and Switzerland citizens • Students who start a programme before tuition fees are introduced will be able to complete their studies according to the rules of the old system. • Students who take part in an exchange between a Swedish university and university in their home country will not be subject to Swedish tuition fees. Fees for Non EU/EEA students wanting to study in Sweden Tuition fees will be set by the universities themselves and will cover the full cost of studies. Therefore, the fee levels may vary depending on the type of course, institution, and in what part of Sweden the course is given. It is expected that fees will be between SEK 80,000–140,000 per academic year for most subjects, however, subjects such as art, medical or pilot programs, may have higher fees. For students from outside the EU/ EEA and Switzerland, there will

28

also be an application fee of SEK 900 starting with the autumn semester 2011. Students will need to pay for at least the first semester of their studies before applying for their student residence permit to come to Sweden. Information for EU/EEA and Swiss citizens wanting to study in Sweden If you have citizenship within the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you are not required to pay application or tuition fees. You are required to provide documentation of your citizenship status in order for your application to be processed. You can provide copies of the following documents in order to verify your status: • Valid passport • Valid national ID card • Valid identity card which clearly states citizenship All documents must be certified. This means that another person must sign their name, print their name and provide their telephone number on each document copy you submit. This person, by signing, is certifying that the copy you submit is an exact copy of the original. A friend, relative or government official can provide this certification for you.

It is important that you submit your documentation by the deadline indicated; otherwise, your application will be considered late and will only be processed if time permits. Scholarships for study in Sweden The government plans to introduce a scholarship programme starting in 2011 for students from 12 developing countries (Bangladesh, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia) alongside a second scholarship programme. This scholarship programme will be administered by universities directly and is open to all students from outside the EU/ EEA. The budget will be SEK 30 million (€3 million) for 2011, and will be increased to SEK 60 million for 2012. This will give qualified students who lack the appropriate funding the continued opportunity to study in Sweden. Additionally, foreign students subject to fees and with a residence permit of at least one year would be fully insured through the national healthcare system. Details on tuition fees for international study in Finland will be finalised during the winter of 2010.


www.internationalgraduate.net

The Swedish parliament has passed a law stating that students from non-EU/EEA countries or Switzerland will begin paying tuition and application fees to study in Sweden from the 2011/2012 academic year. However, they will be supplemented by scholarship programmes. Previous to these changes, higher education studies in Sweden had been funded by Swedish taxpayers. The new rules apply only to those from outside the EU/EEA studying at the Bachelor’s or Master’s level. PhD programmes will continue to be tuition-free.

Cost of living in Sweden for students

Breakdown of typical costs

Sweden is among the most expensive places to live for students. The cost of living in Sweden depends on the lifestyle of the student and prices can vary considerably depending on where you live. Stockholm, for example, is more expensive than smaller towns.

Dining Meal at an inexpensive restaurant Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant McDonalds meal Beer (0.5 litre, draught) Imported beer (0.33 litre bottle) Coke/Pepsi can Water (0.33 litre bottle)

GBP £10.85 £47.17 £6.60 £4.14 £4.97 £1.49 £1.36

EUR 12.23€ 53.16€ 7.44€ 4.66€ 5.60€ 1.68€ 1.53€

SEK 112.51 489.07 68.44 42.87 51.52 15.45 14.07

Supermarket items Milk Loaf of bread 12 Eggs Cheese (1kg) Water (1.5 litre bottle) Bottle of wine Domestic beer (0.5 litre bottle) Imported beer (0.33 litre bottle) Pack of cigarettes

GBP £0.72 £1.74 £1.54 £8.99 £1.22 £8.13 £1.60 £1.60 £4.42

EUR 0.81€ 1.97€ 1.74€ 10.13€ 1.38€ 9.16€ 1.80€ 1.80€ 4.98€

SEK 7.45 18.12 16.00 93.19 12.69 84.27 16.56 16.56 45.81

Transport One-way ticket on local transport Monthly travel pass Taxi (up to 5km) 1 litre of petrol

GBP £2.71 £62.86 £21.30 £1.19

EUR 3.05€ 70.84€ 24.01€ 1.34€

SEK 28.06 651.72 220.89 12.32

Monthly utilities Electric, gas, water

GBP £110.04

EUR 124.01€

SEK 1140.89

Rent (per month) 1 bedroom apartment in city centre 1 bedroom apartment outside city 3-bedroom apartment in city centre 3-bedroom apartment outside centre

GBP £751.08 £333.84 £686.40 £666.15

EUR 846.48€ 376.24€ 773.59€ 750.76€

SEK 7787.61 3461.40 7117.02 6906.99

A good indication of the cost of living in Sweden is the monthly minimum requirement students must have access to during their stay in Sweden. The Swedish authorities state that you must have SEK 7,300 per month (715€) at your disposal in order to be granted a residence permit. Although this is the case, most universities estimate that a student can survive living on SEK 5,500 (540€) a month. All students should be able to cover personal living expenses, cost of literature, insurance etc. The average monthly cost of living for a student includes: Accommodation: SEK 3,200 Food: SEK 2,000 Local travel: SEK 500 Telephone/internet: SEK 300 Insurance, medical care and hygiene: SEK 250 Clothing, hobby/leisure, other: SEK 750 Total: SEK 7,000 or about EUR 750. Living costs in Stockholm Stockholm is currently ranked the 109th most expensive place in the world for people to live, out of 300 international locations. The cost of living rankings are as follows (1 = most expensive, 300 = least expensive): Alcohol & tobacco: 109 out of 300 Clothing: 63 out of 300 Communication: 185 out of 300 Furniture & appliances: 107 out of 300 Groceries: 100 out of 300 Healthcare: 142 out of 300 Household utilities: 171 out of 300 Personal care: 124 out of 300 Recreation and culture: 159 out of 300 Meals out and hotels: 65 out of 300 Transport and vehicle costs: 57 out of 300 Miscellaneous costs (stationary, newspapers, dry cleaning etc): 73 out of 300

1 Euro = SEK 9.2 approx

By Laura Proto

29


RESERVE YOUR STAND SPACE … and meet thousands of Dutch students!

28/29 January 2011 THE NETHERLANDS, JAARBEURS UTRECHT

fair THE NETHERLANDS

The Masters Fair:  Offers a broad range of domestic and foreign master’s degree programmes;  Is particularly suited to your branding and recruitment goals;  Is the only national fair that focuses exclusively on master’s programmes;  Offers the opportunity to meet Dutch students who are interested in studying abroad.

Nobiles Media  +31 (0)20 623 18 00  sales@nobiles.nl  www.mastersfair.nl NO_MB_ADV_180x250.indd 1

01-09-2010 12:46:57




13th INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION ON EDUCATION 12 & 13 MARCH 2011

Peace & Friendship Stadium, Athens – Greece

Take part in the only exhibition on education in Greece and get the best out of the largest foreign student market in Europe! It is widely known that a very high percentage of Greek students choose to study at foreign educational institutes making Greece Europe’s largest exporter of students to foreign universities. This trend shows no sign of a slowdown. On the contrary, due to the economic crisis more people are now interested to study and gain experience abroad.

EDUCATION, is the premier and only complete exhibition on education in Greece and one of the key educational fairs in Europe. It attracts each year : • around 20.000 quality visitors seeking information on graduate and postgraduate programmes offered in Greece and abroad, and • 250 exhibitors from 15 countries. EDUCATION is an excellent opportunity to reach the Greek public, increase awareness and create interest in your educational programmes!

For more information please contact the Organisers at info@europartners.gr or visit: www.europartners.gr/education International communication sponsor : SR MEDIA

Organised by: 101 Syngrou Ave., 117 45 Athens, Greece Tel (+30) 210 92 21 254 • Fax (+30) 210 92 21 589

info@europartners.gr

www.europartners.gr/education


Student Visas USA

International Graduate Worldwide

Border control Student visas and employment opportunities USA

34


www.internationalgraduate.net

After being accepted to an American university, the next big job is to apply for your student visa to the US. Without your student visa application being accepted you will not be able to take your position in your chosen graduate programme in America, so let us tell you which student visa you will need to travel to the USA.

Which type of student visa should I apply for to study in America? Many people believe that their US student visa will guarantee them entry into the United States; however it is just a pass that allows you to apply for entry at the admissions border. Entry will be granted to you after the American immigration inspector has stamped it at passport control and only then can you enter the United States as a graduate student. As a foreign student travelling to the US for your graduate degree you will want to apply for a Non-immigrant student visa to the United States. You must start this application by determining which type of Nonimmigrant student visa you require out of the three below: (F-1) Student Visa: This visa is the most common type of student visa which any graduate student who is going to study at a university in America or any academic institution will need. (M-1) Student Visa: This visa is for any student whose course of study is not principally academic but is at an established vocational or recognised non-academic institution in the USA.

(J-1) Student Visa: This visa is designed for students who require practical training as part of their course. This would not ordinarily be used by students however scholars or visiting professors may use this type of visa to travel to the United States. Does the type of student visa I need to study as a graduate in America change depending on my nationality? It doesn’t matter which nationality you are, you will need one of the above student visas in order to study as a graduate in the USA. It is most likely that as a graduate student you will want the (F-1) Student Visa; however information on each individual student visa to the US is available on the International Student website: www.internationalstudent.com /immigration What criteria do I need to meet to get a student visa to study in the USA? In order to qualify for an (F-1) Student Visa to study in America there are certain criteria you must meet as a student: 1. You must have a foreign residence and must intend to return there upon completion of your graduate studies in America.

2. You can only study at the academic institution through which the student visa was granted. 3. You must have sufficient financial support so you can complete studying in the US. 4. You must have strong ties to your home country (e.g. job offer letter upon completion of studies, assets, bank accounts, and family). 5. You should know it may be possible to convert this student visa to a temporary work visa upon completion of your studies in America. Spouses and minor children can obtain F-2 visa status but are not authorised to work in the US. Advice on choosing the right student visa for you It is vital that you make sure you choose the correct student visa for your time as a graduate in America. It is most likely you will need the (F-1) student visa to study as an international graduate in the US, however if you are unsure after visiting the student visa websites you should contact the American university or institution you are attending, as they will be able to advise you further.

35


Student Visas USA

International Graduate Worldwide

Can I work in America when I graduate? Yes, with Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT is a must-have for any graduate wishing to stay in the United States after graduation or work at a US company whilst completing their studies. Your F-1 student visa will become an F-1 OPT Visa and you will be able to get hands-on experience in the American workplace or stay in the USA for an extra 12 months for Optional Practical Training in your degree field. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that a graduate student can apply for. There are two types of OPT, precompletion OPT and post-completion OPT. Pre-completion OPT can be applied for after a full academic year of enrolment at a US university. It allows students to work full-time when school is not in session, and part-time during university term times. OPT gives you the opportunity to get hands on, real world experience in your degree subject with a company in the USA. Post-completion OPT allows F-1 students to apply to stay in the US and work full-time after the completion of their studies. As with pre-completion OPT, post-completion OPT must also be directly related to the students field of study whilst in the US. As a graduate student you must apply for post-completion OPT before the completion of your course. To start the process of applying for both types of OPT you need to get a Designated School Official (DSO) at your place of study to recommend you for the OPT. The DSO will make the recommendation by submitting your F-1 Student Visa to the system as well as an I-765 form that you, the student, must file. To file the I-765 form you must pay a fee of $340. Only after you receive your OPT can you take on full or part-time employment in the USA. After your 12 months of OPT you can apply for a 17 month extension of post-completion OPT. The eligibility requirements for this are that: • You must have a Bachelor’s, Doctorate or Master’s included in the STEM Designated Degree Program List (which can be found on the website link below) • You must currently have approved post-completion OPT • Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify • You must apply on time – before your current post-completion OPT expires For additional information on applying for OPT as a graduate student you can find all the information you need on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website: www.uscis.gov

By Beth Pryor

36


www.internationalgraduate.net

State snapshot California

America is one of the most ethnically and geographically diverse countries in the world. With so many regional identities and environments, it can be hard to know where to start in your search for somewhere to live and study in the USA. In the upcoming issues of International Graduate, we introduce you to each US state to help you get to know this vast country a little better. In this issue we take a look at the golden state of California. Snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, lush forests and long stretches of golden beach, ‘The Golden State’ of California truly has it all. California is the most populous states in the USA and

rides at Universal Studios or go on a shopping frenzy on Rodeo Drive. Orange County is home to Disneyland and as well as the theme parks, resorts and shopping,

“Los Angeles offers the best in theatre, symphony and ballet as well as a chance to go celebrity spotting in glamorous Beverly Hills.” can be divided into 12 regions: the Central Coast, Los Angeles County, Orange County, the North Coast, San Diego County, the San Francisco Bay Area, Shasta Cascade, Gold Country, the Central Valley, the High Sierra, the Deserts and the Inland Empire. As the second most populous city in the US, Los Angeles offers the best in theatre, symphony and ballet as well as a chance to go celebrity spotting in glamorous Beverly Hills or check out their handprints down Hollywood Boulevard. Test your nerve on the

the county offers 42 miles of beaches and the charming rural communities of the Santa Ana Mountains. The San Francisco Bay Area is cosmopolitan and international with rich cultural diversity. Thirty-nine per cent of San Francisco’s residents are born overseas. The area’s striking landscape and attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the Cable Cars, draw thousands of visitors each year. With one of the top five medical schools in the US and Silicon Valley in the south, San Francisco continues to be a biotechnology and biomedical hub of America.

California fact file Capital: Sacramento Largest City: Los Angeles Population: 36,961,664 (1st in the US) Highest Point: Mt. Whitney (4,418 m) Governor: Arnold Schwarzenegger State Motto: Eureka (I have found) • California is the birthplace of the Frisbee, Barbie dolls, skateboards and video arcade games. • The first person to personally receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was actress Joanne Woodward in 1960. • There are more than 300,000 tonnes of grapes grown in California annually, and consequently California produces more than 17 million gallons of wine each year. • Approximately 8 per cent of Californians are vegetarians. • Every plant in Tomorrowland at Disneyland California is edible. Guests are welcome to help themselves to bananas, strawberries, tomatoes and more! • If you live in San Diego and you don’t take down your Christmas lights by February 2nd, you could be fined up to $250.

37


Nutrition Lab, School of Human Environmental Sciences

Inspire. Change. Graduate education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is driven by the love of learning in service to the public good. Students and faculty collaborate in research, discovery, and performance, applying knowledge to the challenges of the 21st century. If you are thinking about a graduate program, why not explore the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a student-centered university offering 64 masters programs and 25 doctoral programs of study.

UNC Greensboro Schools & Colleges College of Arts & Sciences Bryan School of Business & Economics School of Education School of Health & Human Performance School of Human Environmental Sciences School of Music School of Nursing Joint School of Nanoscience & Nanotechnology* (*with NC A&T State University, anticipated Fall 2009)

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public, coeducational, doctoral-granting, residential university chartered in 1891. It is one of the three original institutions of The University of North Carolina System. With approximately 17,157 students from 49 U. S. states and more than 70 countries including 3,800 graduate students.

www.uncg.edu/grs For more information on Graduate Programs at UNCG, contact the Graduate School at www.uncg.edu/grs. or write to: The Graduate School 241 Mossman Building 1202 Spring Garden Street Greensboro, NC 27412 USA


Volume 11 Issue 3

Volume 11 Issue 4

Impress employers

With a good graduate resumĂŠ

Study in the Queen City Charlotte NC

Vacation location Student summer in London

The people business Human resources Why choose

Australia? Journalism, Media and Film In the UK

Job opportunities West Coast USA

w w w . i n t e r n a t i o n a l g r a d u a t e . n e t

Save money with student ID

Adjusting to life abroad

Student diaries reveal all

w w w . i n t e r n a t i o n a l g r a d u a t e . n e t

Subscribe to The International Graduate online at: www.internationalgraduate.net/form.htm


EARN A MASTER’S DEGREE OR POSTSECONDARY CERTIFICATE NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE. "U ,BQMBO 6OJWFSTJUZ XF PGGFS UIF lFYJCJMJUZ BOE DPOWFOJFODF UP IFMQ ZPV DSFBUF B QBUI UP MFBSOJOH UIBU kUT ZPVS CVTZ TDIFEVMF 8F BSF B SFDPHOJ[FE BOE BDDSFEJUFE 6 4 VOJWFSTJUZ * 0VS DMBTTFT BSF UBVHIU CZ QSBDUJDJOH QSPGFTTJPOBMT XIP XPSL JO UIF kFMET UIFZ UFBDI TP UIF FEVDBUJPO ZPV SFDFJWF XJMM CF FOHBHJOH QSBDUJDBM BOE GPDVTFE PO UIF TLJMMT UIBU BSF NPTU JNQPSUBOU JO UPEBZ T KPC NBSLFU 1MVT XF PGGFS B QFSFDOU UVJUJPO SFEVDUJPO GPS JOUFSOBUJPOBM TUVEFOUT †&BSO B NBTUFS T EFHSFF PS DFSUJkDBUF JO one of the following areas: r #VTJOFTT "ENJOJTUSBUJPO r *OGPSNBUJPO 5FDIOPMPHZ r 1VCMJD )FBMUI r -FHBM 4UVEJFT r "DDPVOUJOH r 1TZDIPMPHZ r $SJNJOBM +VTUJDF r &OUSFQSFOFVSTIJQ GPS (SPXUI 7FOUVSFT r )JHIFS &EVDBUJPO r &OWJSPONFOUBM 1PMJDZ

&OSPMM UPEBZ‡DPOUBDU BO "ENJTTJPOT "EWJTPS CZ WJTJUJOH www.global.kaplan.edu

* 4FF PVS XFCTJUF GPS EFUBJMT †*OUFSOBUJPOBM TUVEFOUT BU ,BQMBO 6OJWFSTJUZ BSF FMJHJCMF UP SFDFJWF B *OUFSOBUJPOBM TUVEFOUT BU ,BQMBO 6OJWFSTJUZ BSF FMJHJCMF UP SFDFJWF B

QFSDFOU UVJUJPO SFEVDUJPO *OUFSOBUJPOBM TUVEFOUT BSF SFRVJSFE UP QBZ XFFLT PG UVJUJPO BOE GFFT JO GVMM QSJPS UP UIF TUBSU PG UIF kSTU UFSN


Recruit in Canada presents: GoStudy Education Fairs University representatives from around the world meet face-to-face with students across Canada

Mark your calendars: March 3-6, 2011 Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto September 2011 (TBA) Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Toronto March 2012 (TBA) Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto

PoweRed By

www.recruitincanada.com

www.gostudy.ca

Schools see www.RecruitInCanada.com

InTeRnATIonAl MedIA SPonSoR

www.canadianstudentmagazine.com

Students see www.StudyAndGoAbroad.com


Sydney

International Graduate Worldwide

Discovering down under Sydney: A city guide Australia is becoming an increasingly popular study destination, with students from around the world choosing to gain top-quality education overseas. Each year, an increasing number of students take up courses in Australia and add to the already significant number of international students around the country. In 2009, 203,324 international students were enrolled in higher education programmes in Australia, with New South Wales and Victoria attracting the biggest numbers of international students. Business programmes especially are a strong area to consider studying in Austrailia, due to its strong geographic and economic links with Asia. MBA students in Australia are able to build international networks, which will be of benefit for future careers and business deals. Australia is a wonderful place to live! Along with being a great place to gain first-rate education, Australia is also a lovely place to live. The society is extremely welcoming and multicultural, with the population originating from around 200 countries. Australian cities are clean, safe and have low crime rates, and if that wasn’t enough, Australian people have a reputation for being amongst the friendliest in the world!

42


www.internationalgraduate.net

Sydney is the biggest and largest populated city in Australia. Sydney is located in New South Wales, on the south-east coast of the Tasman Sea and is a great place for international students to study.

Fast facts: Sydney • The population of Sydney is 4.5 million people • A resident of Sydney is known as a ‘Sydneysider’

Great lifestyle and quality of living The lifestyle and quality of living in Australia is among the best in the world. The Mercer 2010 Worldwide Quality of Living survey recently found that Sydney ranked number 10 overall for living. Melbourne and Perth also featured in the top 25 at numbers 18 and 21 respectively. No three cities from the UK or US were featured within the top 25, which goes to show how nice a place Australia is to live. Value for money Australian education programmes are often considerably cheaper than similar programmes in the UK and US, meaning that international students can save money on tuition fees by choosing to study in Australia. Australian courses are often shorter than those in other countries, particularly the US. Postgraduate courses in Australia range from 1 to 2 years of fulltime study, which is similar to that of many European destinations. Great prospects for students Australia has a strong economy and low unemployment rate, which is great news for international students who want to work alongside their studies, as they will have no problem finding a job.

Tuition fees As an international student in Australia, you must pay your tuition fees up-front to be able to continue with your studies. Tuition fees for international students in Australia cost the following: • Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas: A$9,000 – A$16,000 per year (Around £5,500 - £9,800 or 6,500€ - 11,550€ per year) • Master’s and Doctoral degrees: A$11,000 – A$18,500 per year (Around £6,800 - £11,400 or 7,950€ - 13,400€ per year) Top attractions to visit in Sydney Bondi Beach is named as one of the best beaches in the world. It is popular amongst locals and tourists alike, located just 7km east of the Sydney central business district. The beach is 1km long and receives many visitors throughout the year, so is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Sydney. Sydney Opera House may be Australia’s most famous landmark, with tourists from around the world visiting in huge numbers each year. Even if you don’t have a huge interest in the arts, you should still visit to look at the phenomenal architecture. Whilst visiting the Opera House, why not visit Sydney Harbour Bridge too. The Guinness World Records states it is the world’s widest long-

span bridge and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 metres (440 ft) from top to water level. It is also the fifth-longest spanning-arch bridge in the world, which really shows how impressive it is. Centrepoint Tower is one for the thrill-seekers. Despite its thin structure, it is ranked as one of the safest buildings in the world. The way the tower is designed has made it capable of withstanding earthquakes and extreme wind conditions. Sydney Tower will give you a wonderful view across Sydney and if you’re feeling daring, take part in the Sky Walk, 880 feet above sea level. That will definitely be a walk to remember! For a great day out with friends and family, head to Darling Harbour; Sydney’s favourite destination for leisure and entertainment. With more than 40 restaurants, 30 bars, cafes, museums and more, there really is something for everyone. Check out www.darlingharbour.com for a full listing of what’s on offer. If you’re looking to experience another culture without leaving the country, Chinatown and Haymarket are the places for you. With a vast range of restaurants, noodle bars and Asian gift shops, you’ll feel like you have stepped right into Asian life. But fear not! All street signs are bilingual with classic Chinese symbols and English to ensure you don’t get lost!

• The average age of a Sydneysider is 34 • Sydney is in the ‘Eastern Standard Time’ time zone, making it 10 hours ahead of the UK in the winter and 11 hours ahead in the summer • Sydney has one of the lowest city population densities and highest living standards in the world • Approximately 4.5 million people visit Sydney Opera House each year, which is more than twice the number of visitors America’s White House receives yearly • The Sydney Harbour Bridge (nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’) requires regular paint jobs as part of its maintenance. The surface area off the bridge is equal to that of 60 sports fields! • Sydney’s Fish Markets rank as the 2nd largest in the world, with over 100 types of fish on sale daily • The world’s first milkbar opened in Martin Place in 1933, offering “milkshakes” for fourpence • Sydney has had only one fatal shark attack since 1937 By Laura Proto

43


Student profile: ICMS

International Graduate Worldwide

Climbing the corporate ladder at ICMS Student profile: Ryan Lo Hospitality Management student Typical of a student from the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS), Ryan Lo is determined to make the most of every opportunity that comes his way. When Ryan, who is studying his degree in hospitality management at ICMS, embarked on his industry training in food and beverage in one of Sydney’s best known hotels he thought the job didn’t have much to offer him. How wrong he turned out to be. No sooner had he started in his position than a large number of staff resigned from the hotel. Ryan made the most of what could have been a difficult situation, gaining valuable experience across the hotel and eventually taking on a leadership role. “I learned so much from my nine months of paid industry training,” Ryan said. “I got to apply many of the skills I’d learnt in my first two terms at ICMS but most importantly I learnt what not to do in hospitality management and that is about one of the most valuable lessons.”

Ryan Lo, 2010 ICMS Hospitality Management student

44

Ryan, who is now at the end of his second year of study, is now ready to learn as much as he can during his remaining time at ICMS.

“Most of my classes are practical and related to what I will be doing when I graduate. Recently I had the opportunity to work as theming assistant for a major College function where I learnt the importance of first impressions and attention to detail. Our event had a Harry Potter theme, and we really tried to make guests feel like they were stepping into Hogwarts.” Now, as President-elect of the Asian Students Association, Ryan is determined to help new students adjust to life on campus. “Adjusting to College life can be difficult for Asian Students,” Ryan said. “They miss their family and friends. The Asian Students Association helps new students by providing them with the support they need. We run events and activities that make them feel more at home and, if they need extra help, we can point them in the right direction.” To Ryan, it’s all another learning experience.


www.internationalgraduate.net

“Since I’ve been involved in the Asian Students Association I’ve learnt a lot about the most difficult area of management - motivating people. I’ll definitely be able to put that to good use when I graduate.” After graduation, Ryan hopes to gain experience in a

range of positions in hotel management from front office, to sales and marketing. To find out more about studying at the International College of Management, Sydney please visit www.icms.edu.au or email info@icms.edu.au

Follow icms_campus on Twitter Become a fan of International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) on Facebook

45




CV guide

International Graduate Worldwide

34


Aalto University [Finland] ..........................................................................................................................................................23 Begin Group [Russia] ...................................................................................................................................................................31 Brunel University – School of Arts [UK] ...............................................................................................................................20 Cyprus State Fairs [Cyprus] ......................................................................................................................................................32 EuroPartners [Greece] ................................................................................................................................................................33 GETEX [UAE] ....................................................................................................................................................................................48 Go Study Canada [Canada] ........................................................................................................................................................41 International College of Management, Sydney [Australia]......................................................................................... IFC Jamk University of Applied Sciences [Finland]..............................................................................................................OBC Kaplan University [USA] .............................................................................................................................................................40 Kingston University – Kingston Business School [UK] ...................................................................................................09 Nobiles Media – The Masters Fair [The Netherlands] ...................................................................................................30 The Sino British College [China] .............................................................................................................................................47 University of Exeter Business School [UK] ..........................................................................................................................13 University of Glasgow – Department of Geographical & Earth Sciences [UK] ......................................................17 University of Hull – Department of Biological Sciences [UK] ....................................................................................19 University of Kent – School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science [UK] ........................................15 University of Leeds – School of Politics and International Studies [UK].................................................................08 University of North Carolina – Greensboro [USA] ...........................................................................................................38 University of Nottingham – Nottingham Business School [UK] .................................................................................07

Remember, use the form to obtain further information about these institutions. Alternatively, visit our website at

www.internationalgraduate.net

Volume 11 Issue 6

Advert Index



Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.