Staffordshire University PG Prospectus Oct 2016

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GET THE POSTGRAD EDGE. POSTGRADUATE GUIDE 2017.

£10K GOVERNMENT-BACKED LOANS AVAILABLE

EDGE OVER YOUR COMPETITION? WE’VE GOT JUST THE THING. At Staffordshire University, we don’t just offer postgraduate degrees. We offer an edge. We can help you launch your career, or move ahead in your existing field. Maybe you’re looking for something completely different. No matter what your age or situation, we can give you what you need to stand out from the crowd.

We’re an open institution, which means we offer a wide range of courses with full-time, part-time and distance learning options – whatever it takes to give you the postgraduate course you want. Distance Learning is an ideal solution for those who don’t have the time to commit to regular lectures on campus. We have lots of experience delivering the same levels of learning and support over long distances via the internet.

So no matter which study mode suits you best, our well-established support structures will help you find it.

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CONTENTS

WHAT IS POSTGRADUATE STUDY?

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ABOUT STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY

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RESOURCES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

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OUR CAMPUS

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TEACHING AND EXPERTISE

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STUDENT CASE STUDIES

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A REPUTATION FOR RESEARCH

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STEP UP TO MASTERS

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FUNDING YOUR STUDIES

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HOW TO APPLY

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COURSE LISTINGS

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WHAT IS POSTGRADUATE STUDY? The term ‘postgraduate’ refers to the level of study after undergraduate level (your first degree, usually a bachelors degree). Having said that, not all postgraduate courses require an undergraduate degree. Some courses, often professional development courses, will accept relevant industry experience if you don’t already hold an undergraduate degree. Remember, each course has its own entry requirements, these can be found on the course pages of our website.

Within the cluster of postgraduate courses, there are various levels of study available including:

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATES AND DIPLOMAS

Certificates (PG Cert) and Diplomas (PG Dip) are often vocational programmes of study and structured in a similar way to masters programmes. These courses are usually assessed by exams and coursework meaning a dissertation is not required. Typically, these are six to nine months in length depending on your chosen study mode.

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INTEGRATED MASTERS (IM) DEGREES

These are four year degrees that combine undergraduate and postgraduate study. Your first two years are like a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering degree.

You’ll need to perform well in the first two years before going on to more specialised study.

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN EDUCATION (PGCE)

A PGCE is the most popular route into teaching. They’re useful if you have a degree in the subject you want to teach.

You’ll combine school placement with the study of teaching and learning theory. You’ll graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This means you are able to teach in state maintained schools in England and Wales. They are usually studied full-time and take one year to complete.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PhD) MASTERS DEGREES

Masters degrees are usually intensive taught programmes with a dissertation or project. Full-time study typically lasts one year in length, with part-time study usually taking two years to complete. Our range of masters degrees includes: • Master of Arts (MA) • Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Law (LLM) • Master of Science (MSc)

MASTERS BY RESEARCH

Studying for a masters by research offers the opportunity to pursue an independent research project while benefiting from the support of expert supervision. Typically, this takes one year full-time or two to three years part-time. Our range of Masters by research include: • Master of Philosophy (MPhil) • Master of Research (MRes) • Master of Arts (MA) by research • Master of Science (MSc) by research

You’ll conduct an original piece independent research. Its aim? To make a significant contribution to knowledge in your subject. It’s intensive and requires your time. It will take three to four years full-time or five to six years part-time.

You’ll work with the support and guidance of a supervisor.

So you’re not alone. What’s the result? You’ll publish your thesis, most likely in a journal, and be an expert in your subject.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAUGHT AND RESEARCH:

Taught These are the postgraduate courses most like undergraduate study. You will learn through lectures, workshops and tutorials as well as essays, assignments and project work.

Research The main activity of a research-based course is usually to produce one, or possibly more, pieces of original research.

To view our full list of postgraduate courses, visit staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate.

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ABOUT STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY Based in the heart of the UK, we have our finger on the pulse. Just 45 minutes from Manchester, 50 minutes from Liverpool, and only a 90 minute journey to London. Not to mention the 20 minute drive to Alton Towers or the fact that V Festival takes place in Staffordshire every year.

At Staffordshire University, we don’t just open doors; we open minds. And here’s some of the ways we do that better than most:

I CAME TO STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY FOR THE LOCATION. I LOVE THAT IT’S IN THE MIDDLE OF THE COUNTRY AND IT’S REALLY EASY TO GET TO MANCHESTER AND LONDON

LEEDS MANCHESTER LIVERPOOL

Modern city campus: £80m investment in our campus transformation providing innovative teaching and learning environments with top class resources and facilities.

Location: a connected university at the centre of transport links, meaning you can easily travel across the city, the county and the country.

STAFFORDHSIRE UNIVERSITY BIRMINGHAM LONDON

Cost of living: one of the most affordable places in the country for study.

Academic expertise: 78% of research done by our teaching staff is world leading or of international importance. (source: REF) Flexible Learning: a range of full-time, part-time, and distance learning courses to meet your needs.

Student Support: childcare facilities, Careers Network, Student Enabling Centre and International Student Support to name just a few.

Cutting-edge courses: hundreds of courses at various postgraduate levels, meeting the demands of employers and needs of industry.

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Industry links: a county built on hardworking values that resonate throughout our campus, our innovative courses and our links with employers.

European City of Sport 2016: meaning exceptional sporting opportunities across campus and in the city.

Unique industrial heritage: home to leading names in ceramics including Emma Bridgewater, Wedgwood and Burleigh pottery.

YASHWANTH NOOKA MSc Computer Science

STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY HAS GIVEN ME THE CONFIDENCE TO FACE THE REAL WORLD OF EMPLOYMENT.

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RESOURCES

Video Conferencing All of our students have access to international video conferencing at the University, for both personal and work use. It’s great for chatting to experts from around the world.

Market Research You’ll have free access to cutting edge industry research, for an added edge over other students. So you can get in-depth knowledge on the industries and job markets that you’re looking to enter.

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We don’t just bend boundaries at Staffordshire University; we break them. One of the ways we do this is through providing support that is second-tonone, along with innovative resources and facilities.

We’ve recently transformed our campus with a £80m investment and we aim to continually keep our students connected in every way possible.

Lynda.com This online training tool is a fantastic way to get insights into all sorts of subjects such as Design, Education, Animation, Photography, and Business. When you join us, you’ll get unlimited access, so you can learn what you want, when you want: • Over 3,000 video courses, with new courses added weekly • Expert teachers who are passionate about their subjects • On-the-go learning, with access from your computer, tablet or phone • Custom playlists allow you to save courses to watch and share with your friends.

Box of Broadcasts A real asset for film students and TV buffs – we’ve got decades of TV broadcasts available through the University’s online portal.

You’ll have access to any programme recorded in the past 20 years, and you can even ask the tutors to record programmes for you.

Microsoft Office 365 We know this is the cornerstone of university life and we give you full access to the entire suite on up to five different devices and full access from anywhere over the web. Your files can be stored on the cloud and made accessible wherever you are.

Adobe Creative Suite As well as Microsoft Office 365, we also give students access to the complete Adobe Suite. Normally costing up to £1,700, this includes Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign, so everyone can get creative.

Conference and Meeting Rooms If you need to grab a spot of peace and quiet, you can book a variety of rooms to prep, practice or produce work.

24/7 Library During term time, you’ll have access to the librabry facilities 24/7. We have thousands of newspapers; some even stretch back to the 16th century.

ASK – Assignment Survival Kit Unique to Staffordshire University – the ASK website helps you schedule and plan multiple assignments, reminding you of due dates, hints and tips and any steps you should take to write that perfect essay or prep that PowerPoint.

Online and face-to-face support Academic Skills Tutors are always available to provide guidance and show you all the resources you need for successful academic writing, referencing, reading and thinking.

Laptop loans and campus-wide wi-fi Our self-service laptop loans allow you to borrow a laptop whenever you need it and connect to our campus wide wi-fi and the world.

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YOUR FUTURE IS HERE At Staffordshire University, we’re committed to investing in your future – literally. We’ve spent millions of pounds on our university campuses. So when you join us, you’ll be coming to a place with everything you need to start opening doors and breaking boundaries.

Our Stoke-on-Trent campus has undergone a massive transformation, with our students at the heart of our plans. Our vision has always been to deliver a vibrant, dynamic campus, combined with brilliant teaching and learning facilities, convenient transport links and social areas. You’ll be among the first students to sample our £80 million investment, including innovative teaching and learning spaces, specialist laboratories and studios, and updated social spaces.

The Beacon building is a brand new three-storey facility at the heart of the University’s creative site. A modern and multi-functional space, it includes teaching areas, flexible, multi-sized lecture spaces, IT labs, seminar spaces, and a new café open to the public.

You’ll find the brand new Cadman Studios on our College Road site. It’s an £11.5m development including state-of-the-art TV and Music Technology Studios and Games Design studios, aswell as a dedicated larger motion capture studio.

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We’ve invested £30m alone on our dedicated Science Centre. Bursting with cutting edge technology that ensures you’re at the forefront of scientific research and development. Spread over three floors, the Science Centre is home to specialist laboratories.

Including Forensic and Crime Science, Renewable Energy and Molecular and Biomedical Science.

To inspire our digitally savvy students we’ve spent £8.7m on new Computing and Games facilities.

Housed within the Mellor building, our new computing labs expand our provision. New gaming labs drive our reputation as the leading university for Gaming Technology. Also included within the building are a suite of brand new bespoke labs for Games Programming, Networking, Mobile, Web Multimedia, Digital Forensics, Big Data and Software Engineering.

Healthcare students benefit from two brand new Centres of Excellence in Healthcare Education based in Stafford and Shrewsbury. We’ve invested £5.5m installing skills labs, social spaces, library facilities and specialist equipment.

At our Stoke-on-Trent campus we take Sport and Exercise seriously. Our Sir Stanley Matthews Sports Centre is now home to some of the best sports and exercise equipment in the city, provided by leading supplier Matrix. We’ve invested £1.25m into our exercise studios and gym facilities. Alongside an extensive timetable of fitness classes, you’ll have the opportunity to compete with Team Staffs.

In addition, our halls of residence are newly refurbished inside and out, ensuring our accommodation really is a home from home. New features include USB plugs, instant hot water boilers, an outdoor pizza oven, Bluetooth kitchen speakers and extra-comfy sofas.

Immerse yourself into our new campus and take a 360º tour online at staffs.ac.uk/360tour

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TEACHING AND EXPERTISE At Staffordshire University we believe that great minds don’t think alike and we employ some of the greatest minds around to prove it. These are truly inspirational individuals who are worldrenowned in their fields, and they’re more than willing to teach you, and collaborate with you throughout your course. It’s an honour to have these remarkable people here at Staffordshire University as they pass on experiences and knowledge to our students; opening their minds to things they never thought possible.

Here we’ve profiled just some of the academic team.

SITA BALI

Academic Group Leader: History, International Relations, English, Sociology and International Studies.

Sita’s work focuses on the politics of South Asia – particularly India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Sita is also interested in the politics of international migration and refugee movements, as well as security studies – particularly migration and security issues and their impact. Her publications include articles on Indian politics and various aspects of international migration.

Sita is responsible for leading a large team of academics in teaching students from the Ministry of Defence who are undertaking undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and short courses. Along with her colleagues, Sita helped to pioneer postgraduate distance learning awards in International Relations.

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RUNE TODNEM BY Professor of Organisational Behaviour.

Before heading into the world of academia, Rune served in His Majesty the King’s Royal Guard (Norway) and as a NATO paramedic in Bosnia and Herzegovina – proving we really do love a mix of backgrounds and experience at Staffordshire University.

Rune is also a Professor of Change Leadership at University of Stavanger (Norway), and co-founder and Chairman of the Public Leadership Foundation (The Netherlands). Being editor-in chief of Routledge’s Journal of Change Management, Rune is actively engaged in the development and publication of the newest research available. He is the co-author and coeditor of a number of books focusing on organisational change, leadership, ethics, and the public sector, and is continuously identified as being in the top 0.1% of scholars registered on www.academia.edu

WE ALWAYS ENSURE OUR RESEARCH AND EXPERIENCE IS FED BACK INTO THE CLASSROOM AND IT’S IMPORTANT THAT OUR STUDENTS CAN INTERACT WITH THE PEOPLE WHO ACTUALLY WROTE AN ARTICLE OR BOOK.

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DR CAROLINE STURDY COLLS

Associate Professor of Forensic Archaeology and Genocide Investigation.

Caroline specialises in holocaust studies and is also the Research Lead at the Centre of Archaeology, teaching in areas of forensic archaeology, techniques in the identification of human remains, and various aspects of crime scene investigation.

Caroline is also a consultant for UK police forces in the search and recovery of buried remains.

As part of her research, she completed the first archaeological surveys at Treblinka in Poland.

In August 2015, based on her research findings, a permanent exhibition, entitled Finding Treblinka, was installed at the Museum of Struggle and Martyrdom.

Caroline is published extensively in Holocaust and forensic archaeology. Her research has gained international media attention and featured in TV documentaries and radio programmes in Europe and the USA.

WE WANT TO GIVE STUDENTS THE CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN CUTTING EDGE PRACTICAL WORK THAT WILL MAKE THEM STAND OUT TO EMPLOYERS.

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CLAUDE CHIBELUSHI

Professor of Cognitive Digital Media Computing.

Claude has worked his way to the top of his field since achieving his first degree in Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering. Following that, he added a Masters in Microelectronics and Computer Engineering before gaining his PhD in Electronic Engineering.

Recently, he has been part of a team that’s developed ground-breaking technology to enable computers to understand the content of pictures and videos. Rated the best technology of its kind in the world, Spectral-360 is built into monitoring software that’s now used by UK police forces and Transport for London.

IT IS IMPORTANT FOR US AS A UNIVERSITY TO BE ABLE TO CREATE KNOWLEDGE, NOT JUST REUSE AND REHASH WHAT KNOWLEDGE THERE ALREADY IS.

THAT’S ONLY A FEW OF OUR AMAZING ACADEMICS, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR ACADEMICS AND THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS VISIT WWW.STAFFS.AC.UK/POSTGRADUATE

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STUDENT SUCCESS

Why follow the crowd when you can follow your own curiosity? Our graduates have an edge over the rest because they followed their curiosity and thought for themselves, from the first day until the last. It’s this state of mind that allows them to achieve great things, no matter their situation.

And if you don’t believe us, see what some of our successful postgraduate students have to say.

KAYLEIGH SHEPPARD As graduates look back over their experiences at University, not many students would list murder reconstruction and post-mortems as particular highlights, but it has led forensic scientist Kayleigh Sheppard to the forefront of crime scene investigation research.

Since graduating with a first-class degree in Forensic Science, Kayleigh has joined forces with Staffordshire Police to investigate the potential of digital imaging technology in solving crimes and is now undertaking a PhD at Staffordshire University to further her research in this area.

“I was very excited, and felt very privileged that I was accepted for a placement with Staffordshire Police to conduct a project of my choice working alongside the Forensics Department,” says Kayleigh.

“The nature of the project I undertook gave me the opportunity to gain real world experience working with Scenes of Crimes Officers, where I could put my knowledge from University into practice” Due to the progress made with the project, and the response it received from police staff, it was decided that Kayleigh should have the opportunity to continue with her research and develop it within a PhD.

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“Our lecturers have inspired us to do things outside the University. At conferences I’ve been able to network with employers and do everything to ensure I end up with a good job in the field” Now, Kayleigh is testing the use of the Spheron-VR Sceneworks technology, which consists of a 360 degree camera and associated software which allows a visual file of a crime-scene to be uploaded and stored on a remote server where it can be accessed by authorised personnel working on the case.

It also allows for the addition of ‘hotspots’ which can point investigating officers to detailed physical evidence such as laboratory analysis of fingerprints and blood spatters, detailed photographs and even witness statements which can all be stored on the system.

“This PhD research will allow me to further test the efficiency of this type of technology within police forces with the hope of implementation to aid in crime scene management and presentation,” says Kayleigh.

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AWAISS MIRZA Awaiss graduated with a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering before progressing to an MSc in Computer Aided Engineering at Staffordshire University.

“I didn’t know which university to attend and was recommended Staffordshire University by my sponsor at the time, which was Michelin Tyre plc. I guessed that if a university was recommended by a leading blue chip organisation then it must be good, and I was right!”

Awaiss has had a successful career in the engineering industry having worked at Michelin for eight years in a variety of roles, including industrial engineer, account manager, training manager and regional sales manager, before moving on to senior roles in a range of other businesses.

Since 2012, Awaiss has worked at IMI Precision Engineering, initially as UK sales manager before being promoted to global sales efficiency manager in June 2015.

“I have set and driven commercial strategy to increase profitability in each role in the past 12 years,” says Awaiss, who was named “best in class” throughout Europe by global strategy consulting firm Roland Berger in an independent survey.

“I am currently working for a FTSE 100 engineering company and have a career path heading towards being one of the profit and loss leaders of the business.”

“My time at Staffordshire University taught me independence, confidence and gave me opportunities to learn about life in a safe environment. There was always support at hand if you needed it and it had the feeling of an extended family network.

“Professionally, Staffordshire University provided me with the education that I needed to continue working with my business sponsor on a course recognised by them as being best in class. This later led on to a job and a great career.”

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CLARE MCCALL

CHLOE MCCORMICK

Mum of one, Clare joined Staffordshire University to study a MSc in Sport and Exercise. Balancing being a busy mum alongside her studies was made easier by opting for a part-time Masters studied over two years. Graduating in 2014, Claire now lives in Australia with her daughter, where she is a teacher of psychology and is about to commence a PhD.

Chloe studied at Staffordshire University for her undergraduate degree in Business Management and had a successful managerial career. Deciding it was time for a career change and following her new found passion to become a teacher, Chloe returned to us to study our Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE).

“It was a challenging course. If it was easy, it would not have been as satisfying to complete it. It may sound like a cliché, but I really feel as though I have been on an amazing educational journey over the past two years, gaining insight into so much psychology that can be applied to everyday life. The course staff are excellent; all of them have demonstrated expertise and a strong desire to help and pass on their knowledge in an accessible and friendly way.”

“I had worked my way up in Photo Corporation over the six years I was there and I thought it was time for a change.

Staffordshire University was the only place offering a Business PGCE near to where I live, so I went for it.

I had two placements during the course, one was at Walsall Academy, where they offered me a job. I’m now teaching from Year 9 to Sixth Form students. It was a steep learning curve and I’m really busy but I’m really enjoying it. I love their inquisitiveness about the world and they are guaranteed to make me laugh every single day.”

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ELIZABETH DEAKIN Elizabeth Deakin, aged 45, spent her life working for the family business as a HGV driver. When her mum became ill, Elizabeth decided to change her career and take the leap in to education for the first time in nearly 20 years.

In 2003, aged 33 Elizabeth joined Staffordshire University for the first time as an undergraduate student studying BSc (Hons) Forensic Science. Elizabeth and graduated in 2007 before progressing straight on to study a Masters in Forensic Science.

Having truly got the education bug and keen to further her postgraduate edge, Elizabeth is now undertaking a PhD in Forensic Entomology. Discovering a passion for forensic entomology during her Masters, Elizabeth is exploring the application and study of insect larvae to criminal matters or legal cases.

“It’s a big friendly family at Staffordshire University. You really feel like part of the community and that’s something that has encouraged me to continue my studies with Staffordshire University year after year.”

“The courses are flexible around you and the support team are always on hand to help you to succeed. Everyone is always rooting for you to succeed and that is so encouraging.”

“There’s not many people I know who can say they’ve gone from HGV driver traveling across the UK to Forensic Scientist investigating insects within a crime scene. But you know what? There should be more. If I can do this, then so can anyone. Just because you’ve always done a certain job, it doesn’t mean that you always have to and Staffordshire University has shown me that.”

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“Studying at Staffordshire University has made me feel like I can achieve something that I never thought possible and I’m extremely proud of myself.”

“I get the opportunity to learn within first class laboratories and access to innovative scientific equipment. Having access to such fantastic equipment and supportive staff means you’re set up for success from the start of your course. Studying at Staffordshire University meant I had no option but to succeed!”

ATUL MISHRA A Masters in Computer Science at Staffordshire University helped international student Atul Mishra to fulfil his dreams of becoming a computer programmer with a global company.

Atul, 26 from Gwalior in India, achieved the highest marks on his MSc in Computer Science and says his placement experience has also helped him to land a full-time position with London-based Ticketmaster. He said: “It was an ambition of mine to do my Masters in England because of the people and the quality of education. I highly recommend Staffordshire University.”

“Studying in England is an amazing experience – everybody is so polite and they help you in the University. And in my School of Computing I had good experience of the academics and industry experts.”

“I wanted to be a programmer in a global place and London is that kind of place and so that fulfils my dream.”

Having secured full time work at Ticketmaster where he completed his placement, Atul hopes to return to Staffordshire University in the next few years to complete his PhD.

IT WAS AN AMBITION OF MINE TO DO MY MASTERS IN ENGLAND BECAUSE OF THE PEOPLE AND THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION. 21

DARREN BETTANY When Darren Bettany was made redundant aged 46 he decided to pursue his dream of teaching and graduated with not one, but two degrees from Staffordshire University.

Darren left school at 16 to become an accountant and over the years worked as a financial adviser. When his employer relocated Darren saw it as an opportunity to study full-time and applied to the BA (Hons) Business Fast Track course at Staffordshire University.

“I knew I wanted to teach and for that I needed a degree so the fast track course was ideal. It just seemed like the right thing to do to work through the summer to get it done quicker and save some money as well.”

Fast Track courses offer the same programme of study as three year degrees but enable students to complete the qualification in just two years. Darren completed the fast track course with a first class honours degree and dived straight into studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

“I wanted to go back into education to encourage and inspire local people to go into education and really develop themselves.”

Darren now teaches at a local college; “10 years ago I thought the opportunity to become a teacher had passed me by. It’s something I would’ve liked to have done when I was younger but never had the opportunity or the finance to pursue. It’s never too late to learn. I’d encourage others like me to just go for it! My only regret is not doing it earlier.”

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DANIELLE BOOTHBY Mature student Danielle never thought she would to go to university – but after coming to Staffordshire University she has graduated with a Masters degree and landed her dream job in the police force.

28-year-old mum of two Danielle Boothby applied to Staffordshire University through clearing to pursue a passion for policing.

“I always wanted to join the police force from a young age. My love for policing grew working as a special constable with Staffordshire Police and that made me want to study at university.”

“I didn’t take A-levels or go to college. No one in my family has been to university before but a friend encouraged me to apply so I just went for it.”

Danielle studied an undergraduate degree in Policing and Criminal Investigation achieving first class honours. Enjoying her studies so much, Danielle decided to enhance her employability even further and progressed to study a Masters.

“It was hard fitting my studies around the kids but I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s more than possible - I’m a believer that if you want something badly enough just go out and do it.”

Having graduated again with a first class honours Danielle now works as a police officer and is loving her job.

“It’s brill! I’m really enjoying it.

I’m a prime example that hard work really can pay off. I’ve got the job I wanted so uni has been amazing for me!”

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A REPUTATION FOR RESEARCH Staffordshire University isn’t simply at the heart of the UK. It is also at the centre of some of the outstanding applied research that takes place in Britain – research that makes a difference to lives around the world.

Carried out by leading academics, our research activities include economic, environmental, cultural, technological, scientific, health-based and social development programmes. As a measure of the quality of our research, 78% was rated as ‘world leading’ or of ‘international importance’ in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF).

TAKE A LOOK AT JUST A FEW OF OUR RESEARCH INITIATIVES: Protecting the feet of diabetics Led by our Professor of Clinical Biomechanics, we are developing innovative ways of protecting the feet of people with diabetes. Complications arising from diabetes result in more than one million foot or lower limb amputations each year. As many of these amputations could be avoided by wearing specially designed footwear, we are heading up an international project to develop insoles and, ultimately, footwear that will protect the feet of patients and prevent the ulceration that leads to amputations.

Helping keep society safe Video monitoring is vital to society. It keeps motorways moving, provides evidence in police investigations and can help prevent crime. Taking the advantages of CCTV one stage further, a system developed by Staffordshire University is able to track objects, analyse them and even report anything suspicious. Built using a sophisticated model that can replicate the capabilities of the human eye, the system is already proving valuable in law enforcement.

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Developing sustainable energy We don’t simply work hard to ensure we are an environmentally friendly university.

We are also working to help the UK meet its renewable energy targets. One energy source that shows great potential is biomass – organic material that can be used as fuel. From our on-campus European Centre of Excellence for Biomass, we led on a £6 million research project to advance biomass technology.

Along with partners from across Europe, our aim is to accelerate the use and development of biomass as a sustainable source of energy.

Combating stress in sport The difference between winning and losing in sport can often come down to how athletes cope with psychological stress. Our researchers have developed a groundbreaking method to help athletes react positively to the pressures of competition. Our approach, which turns stress into a positive, has been successfully applied to elite sports including professional football and cricket, and is also being used by a growing number of multinational organisations.

Our researchers also worked with Team GB in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics.

Letting employees share in success Pioneering pan-European research has shown that employee engagement, when it incorporates shared ownership, helps companies become more productive and competitive. The importance of this work is such that it is on the agenda of EU policy makers, with the EU Parliament praising Staffordshire University for the quality and impact of its research.

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STEP UP TO MASTERS

If you want to study at postgraduate level but aren’t sure you’re academically ready, we have the ideal course to ensure you can still gain the postgraduate edge.

Our Step up to Masters course allows you to test and develop the academic skills required at Masters level, ensuring you’re ready to edge over your competition and achieve your career aspirations by then progressing on to a Masters course.

If you’re a mature learner you may feel that you studied for your first degree a long time ago, meaning you’re unsure if you’ll be able to manage studying for a postgraduate course. Or, you may be a competent professional in your career but don’t have a first degree.

At Staffordshire University we welcome students from across the world with varying academic qualifications. We’re well placed to understand the concerns you may have before starting a postgraduate course. With that in mind, we launched our Step up Masters course to help build your confidence and develop your academic skills. You’ll get to grips with the essential skills needed for postgraduate study. That includes critical analysis and evaluation and challenging and debating current evidence.

No matter what your age or situation, we can give you what you need to stand out from the crowd.

Search Step up to Masters and apply online at staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate

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VICKY WELSH Vicky had enjoyed a successful career working with special needs children in local schools for twenty years. At the age of 50 with her two children having grown up and left home, Vicky decided to put herself first and venture into the world of academia: “When I turned 50, I decided now was my time.”

Vicky first joined Staffordshire University in 2012 to study an undergraduate degree in Philosophy. “I think Staffordshire University is amazing. Age is no barrier whatsoever and I’ve found everyone so welcoming and supportive.”

Having enjoyed her undergraduate degree so much and graduating with first class honours in her BA (Hons) Philosophy. Vicky embarked on her Masters study in 2015. Aged 55, she decided to embrace her

age and turn it in to a passion as she undertook a Masters by negotiated study in Philosophy and Gerontology, which is the study of the aging process.

“As a mature learner you obviously worry about fitting in with the young crowd but you’d be surprised how many mature learners there actually are. So don’t worry about your age, there is so much support available even if it’s been a long time since you were in education. Everyone mixes really well and we all have different experiences and qualities to bring to the University. It’s refreshing to be part of a community of all ages that is friendly, inclusive and challenging.”

“I would definitely recommend Staffordshire University for students of all ages.”

AGE IS NO BARRIER WHAT SO EVER AND I’VE FOUND EVERYONE SO WELCOMING AND SUPPORTIVE.

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PAUL DONNELLY Certificate in Higher Education Leadership & Practice

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FUNDING YOUR STUDIES Funding your postgraduate study has never been easier with the introduction of the government-backed Postgraduate Loan Scheme in 2016.

From September 2016 £10,000 loans are available for many of our postgraduate courses. The government-backed loan scheme, administered by Student Finance England, covers a wide range of postgraduate study options – part-time, full-time and distance learning at Masters level.

CAN I GET A POSTGRADUATE LOAN?

HOW MUCH?

To get a Postgraduate Loan:

You can apply for a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards your course and living costs.

• you have to be studying a taught or research Masters course such as a MA, MSc or MBA • you can be studying at university or by distance learning • you have to be under 60 at the start of the first academic year of your course • you must normally live in England.

If you’re an EU National, but don’t normally live in England, you may be able to get a Postgraduate Loan for a Masters course in England. If you’re studying full-time, your course can last for one or two years. If you’re studying part-time, you usually study for two years (for the equivalent one year full-time course) or up to four years (for the equivalent two year full-time course).

You don’t have to hold an offer of a place to apply for a loan.

Terms and conditions subject to change

WHEN? The loan will be paid into your bank account in three instalments during the academic year. If your course is longer than one year, you can get up to £5,000 in your first year and the rest in your second year. If you’re studying part-time, you can only get payments in the first two years of your course.

PAYING IT BACK You have to repay any loan you borrow, but not until you’ve finished or left your course and your income is over £21,000 a year.

Visit the Student Finance England website for full details and eligibility criteria www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan 29

HOW TO APPLY CHECK ENTRY

FIND YOUR COURSE

REQUIREMENTS

Visit www.staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate

TOP TIP!

You don’t have to continue to study in your current subject area

CHECK FOR A

CLOSING DATE

Remember, some intakes are available throughout the year.

TEACHER TRAINING

APPLICATIONS If you are a PGCE applicant you will need to apply via the UCAS Teacher Training System: www.ucas.com/ucas/ teacher-training

APPLY

ONLINE

www.staffs.ac.uk via the course pages

INTERNATIONAL

APPLICATIONS

Apply direct to the university and remember to build in time for any visa applications

TRACK YOUR APPLICATION

You will be sent login details for our Applicant Portal, e:Vision where you can view updates on your application and more.

ENQUIRIES 30

Our dedicated enquiries experts are on hand to guide you throughout the application process. No question is too big or small for us, we’re here to help.

Lines open Monday – Thursday 8.45am-5pm, Friday 8.45am-4.30pm.

Tel: +44(0)1782 294400 Email: enquiries@staffs.ac.uk Enquire online: www.staffs.ac.uk/enquiries

BHAVANA CHALASANI

MSc Computer Networks and Security 31

SELECTED COURSE LISTINGS

Below is a selection of postgraduate courses on offer from Staffordshire University. For a full listing of postgraduate, professional and short courses, as well as information about the mode of study, entry requirements and fees please visit www.staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate COURSE TITLE

POSTGRADUATE LOAN ELIGIBLE*

FULL-TIME

PART-TIME

3

DISTANCE LEARNING

BLENDED LEARNING

ART & DESIGN, FILM & TELEVISION MA CERAMIC DESIGN

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: 3D DESIGN

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: ADVERTISING AND BRAND MANAGEMENT

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: ANIMATION

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: DESIGN

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: GRAPHIC DESIGN

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: ILLUSTRATION

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: PHOTOGRAPHY

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: PRODUCT DESIGN

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: TEXTILE DESIGN

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: VFX

3

3

3

3

MA CREATIVE FUTURES: WRITING

3

3

3

3

MA ARTS AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES BY NEGOTIATED LEARNING

3

3

3

3

3

MA MUSIC PRODUCTION

3

3

MA THEATRE PRACTICE BY NEGOTIATED LEARNING

3

3

3

MSc 3D COMPUTER GAMES DESIGN

3

3

3

MSc ARTS AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES BY NEGOTIATED LEARNING

3

3

3

MSc MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

3

3

3

3

3

BUSINESS CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL MARKETING

3

DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL MARKETING

3

MA STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

3

MASTERS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA)

3

DOCTORATE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (DBA)

3

3

MPhil/PhD BUSINESS

3

3

3

MPhil/PhD BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

3

3

3 3

MPhil/PhD ECONOMICS MSc ACCOUNTING & FINANCE

3

3

3

3

3 3

MSc DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGEMENT

3

3

MSc ECONOMICS FOR BUSINESS ANALYSIS

3

3

MSc INTERNATIONAL ACCOUNTING & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

3

3

3

MSc INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

3

3

3

MSc ISLAMIC FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING

3

3

3

MA ECONOMICS OF GLOBALISATION AND EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

32

3 3

3

APPLY NOW – SEE ‘HOW TO APPLY,’ PAGE 18

COURSE TITLE

POSTGRADUATE LOAN ELIGIBLE*

FULL-TIME

PART-TIME

DISTANCE LEARNING

3

3 3

BLENDED LEARNING

COMPUTING MRes COMPUTING SCIENCES

3

MSc BIG DATA

3

3

3

MSc CLOUD COMPUTING

3

3

3

MSc COMPUTER GAMES PROGRAMMING

3

3

3

MSc COMPUTER NETWORKS & SECURITY

3

3

3

MSc COMPUTER SCIENCE

3

3

3 3

3

3

3

MSc COMPUTING

3

MSc CYBER SECURITY

3

3

MSc DIGITAL FORENSIC AND CYBERCRIME ANALYSIS

3

3

3

MSc INFORMATION SYSTEMS

3

3

3

3

MSc INTERNET OF THINGS

3

3

3

MSc MOBILE DEVICE APPLICATION

3

3

3

3 3

MSc SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc WEB DEVELOPMENT

3

3

3

3

3

3

EDUCATION DOCTOR OF EDUCATION

3

MA EDUCATION MPhil/PhD EDUCATION

3

PGCE COURSES IN A RANGE OF SUBJECT AREAS

3

PGCE POST COMPULSORY EDUCATION AND TRAINING (PCET)

3

3

3

3

3

MSc AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc AUTOSPORT ENGINEERING

3

3

3

ENGINEERING MSc AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

MSc ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY

3

3

3

MSc ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc INTERNET OF THINGS - ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

3

3

3

MSc MECHANICAL ENGINEERING WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY

3

3

3

MSc MECHATRONICS

3

3

MSc PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING

3

MSc TELECOMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

3

MSC INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING

3 3

3

3

3 3

YOU DON’T HAVE TO HOLD AN OFFER OF A PLACE TO APPLY FOR A LOAN

3

33

COURSE TITLE

POSTGRADUATE LOAN ELIGIBLE*

FULL-TIME

PART-TIME

DISTANCE LEARNING

MA BROADCAST JOURNALISM

3

3

MA CONTINENTAL PHILOSOPHY

3

3

3

MA DESIGN MANAGEMENT

3

3

3

BLENDED LEARNING

JOURNALISM, HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 3

MA GLOBAL SOCIETY AND MEDIA COMMUNICATION

3

3

3

MA INTELLIGENCE AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

3

3

3 3

MA INTERNATIONAL HISTORY

3

3

MA INTERNATIONAL POLICY AND DIPLOMACY

3

3

3

MA INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

3

3

3

MA JOURNALISM

3

MA SOCIAL AND CULTURAL THEORY

3

MA SOCIOLOGY

3

MA SPORTS BROADCAST JOURNALISM

3

3

3

3 3

3

3

3

3

MA TERRORISM, CRIME AND GLOBAL SECURITY

3

3

3

MA TRANSNATIONAL ORGANISED CRIME

3

3

3

LAW GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN LAW (GDL)

3

LLM IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

3

3

MA FAMILY LAW & SOCIETY

3

3

MA HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYMENT LAW

3

3

MPhil/PhD LAW PG DIPLOMA IN LEGAL PRACTICE (LPC)

3

3

3

NURSING & MIDWIFERY MSc SPECIALIST PRACTICE DISTRICT NURSING

3

3

MSc NEGOTIATED LEARNING

3

APPLY NOW – SEE ‘HOW TO APPLY,’ PAGE 18

34

3

MSc ADVANCED CLINICAL PRACTICE

3

COURSE TITLE

POSTGRADUATE LOAN ELIGIBLE*

FULL-TIME

PART-TIME

MA APPLIED RESEARCH

3

3

3

MSc APPLIED RESEARCH

3

3

3

DISTANCE LEARNING

BLENDED LEARNING

PSYCHOLOGY, SPORT & EXERCISE

MPhil PSYCHOLOGY

3

MSc PSYCHOLOGY (CONVERSION COURSE)

3

MSc PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC COUNSELLING

3

3

3

PG DIPLOMA/PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC COUNSELLING MSc HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY

3 3

3

PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE IN HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY MSc COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY

3

MSc CLINICAL BIOMECHANICS

3

3

3

3

3

3

3 3

MPhil SPORT SCIENCE

3

3

MPhil SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY

3

3

MSc SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY

3

3

3

3

MSc APPLIED SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY

3

3

3

3

MSc APPLIED SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE

3

3

3

MSc SPORTS COACHING

3

3

3

SCIENCE MA/MSc APPLIED RESEARCH - POLICING, CRIMINAL AND SAFEGUARDING INVESTIGATION

3

3

3

MSc APPLIED RESEARCH - ARCHAEOLOGY

3

3

3

MSc FORENSIC SCIENCE

3

3

3

3

MSc MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

3

3

3

3

MPhil HEALTH STUDIES

3

3

MPhil HEALTH AND WELFARE STUDIES

3

3

SOCIAL WORK, ALLIED AND PUBLIC HEALTH

MSc ADVANCED FORENSIC PRACTICE (SEXUAL ASSAULT)

3

3

MSc ADVANCED FORENSIC PRACTICE (CUSTODY HEALTH PROFESSIONAL)

3

3

MSc ADVANCED FORENSIC PRACTICE (SEXUAL ASSAULT & CUSTODY HEALTH PROFESSIONALS)

3

3

MA/MSC HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE BY NEGOTIATED LEARNING

3

3

MSc MEDICAL EDUCATION

3

3

3

MSc AGEING, MENTAL HEALTH AND DEMENTIA

3

3

3

MSc PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PUBLIC HEALTH

3

3

3

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH

3

3

3

MA SOCIAL WELFARE LAW, POLICY AND ADVICE PRACTICE

3

3

3

*SEE THE STUDENT FINANCE ENGLAND WEBSITE FOR FULL ELIGIBILITY.

FOR A FULL LIST OF POSTGRADUATE COURSES AND FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE: www.staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate 35

GET THE EDGE. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR POSTGRADUATE COURSES VISIT: www.staffs.ac.uk/postgraduate

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Find us on: The Student Room

www.staffs.ac.uk/socialmedia Contact our Enquiries team: E: enquiries@staffs.ac.uk T: +44(0)1782 294400 Information believed to be accurate at time of going to press October 2016

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