Distance Learning can further success

Date: Jan 2010

Published: The Sunday Business Post
Date: Sunday, January 24, 2010

The Centre for Distance Learning at UCD Quinn School of Business provides sought-after business-based programmes aimed at those returning to education who are eager to progress their career or planning a favourable career move.

One of the centre’s most popular options is the degree in business studies (BBS), a four-year, part-time programme. Christopher Power, who works in the public sector, graduated from the course last year. He was attracted to the BBS programme because he wanted to gain a degree in a business/management discipline, and because of the flexibility and credibility it offered. “It allowed me to continue working full-time while studying by way of distance learning", he said.

Power had previously studied at third level in both full-time and part-time capacity, but wanted to continue his professional development by gaining a management / business degree. “I had no interest in changing career, as I am happy working in the public service”, he said. “Although, I felt by returning to study and by continuing my own professional development, it would enhance both my career progression and my own contribution to the public service.
“The degree has definitely helped me progress my career, as I have already received a promotion. Also, should I seek further promotion, I believe this degree will continue to benefit me”.

“The coursework is challenging. Covering the various modules-course text books, attending block release weekends, submitting the various assignments by the required deadlines and the end of semester examinations – has to be fitted around one’s other commitments, including family and social life.
“The course modules are very well structured, and the distance learning office staff and lecturers are always available to answer questions or offer any other help as required. Overall, although the course work is challenging, through the student’s own application and the supports offered by UCD, these challenges can be overcome and that in itself is very rewarding and satisfying.

Power found the programme content very interesting. “It covered the traditional business topics and disciplines, while also ensuring that the course material remained relevant by covering new business disciplines such as entrepreneurship and e-commerce, which are very relevant to the dynamic and changing business environment that Ireland operates in today”, Power said. “Completion of the programme helped in my own professional development, by building upon what I already knew and teaching me new practical skills. I would definitely recommend this course to others. I think anyone with an interest in management / business would benefit. “I would encourage students to fully use all the excellent supports offered by the distance learning unit and lecturers at UCD. They should develop their time management skills to strike a healthy balance between study and family life”, he said.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2010 postgraduate Masters in Management programme delivered by the CDL. This course is taken over two years on a part-time basis and has been designed specifically for those unable to complete a Masters programme on a full-time basis.

One of the students currently participating in the Masters is Kathleen Dooley, an IT security and future planning manager, with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “The programme provides an insight into various management topics and principles. These concepts are applicable to all disciplines and suited to all management levels”, she said.

The course is academically challenging and the logistics of distance learning require individual discipline and application to the subjects. Efficient time management is necessary as the course can consume approximately 20 hours a week”.
Dooley advised anyone undertaking the course to “ensure that they have adequate time available to dedicate to the course. Managing work commitments and course time as well as normal life commitments, can be in itself challenging. On the positive side, the time constraint does ensure efficient use of time.
“Undertaking the course part-time also allows for continuation in full-time employment, and work and life experiences can be used to assist in course project material.

“The course is a balance of practical and theory work, thus providing experience with useful tools and the underpinning knowledge. As a consequence, the rewards are numerous – ranging from personal development to a wide management skill base”, she said.

For further information on the programmes available through the Centre for Distance Learning at UCD, visit www.ucd.ie/distancelearning

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