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Our postgraduate distance learning students come from all over the world and a wide variety of backgrounds
We asked our MSc students on our distance learning programmes to tell us about their reasons for coming to study with us, and their experiences. Read on to find out what they told us.
- Timothy Holford
Where I live: Beirut, Lebanon
Programme of study: MSc Countering Organised Crime and Terrorism
Why I chose to study this programme: In my current job I am involved in terrorism investigations and prosecutions, and I had long sought to study something specifically related to terrorism as I find the topic fascinating and highly relevant. UCL was an obvious choice as an institution at which to study due to its excellent reputation and consistent high rankings amongst institutes of higher learning, so when I established that the MSc in Countering Organised Crime and Terrorism was offered via distance learning my choice to pursue this degree seemed obvious.
The best bits about studying via distance learning: The flexibility to study when it is convenient to do so, as per one's schedule. I also really like that the lectures are recorded and accessible. I am able to pause and rewind if I miss a point during a lecture, and having the notes provided beforehand also makes following lectures very straightforward.
The challenges of distance learning study: Managing one's time can be challenging, especially when work is busy. One has to be very disciplined in how one approaches one's studies, but I found that once I get into the rhythm of a course it becomes easier.
My current job: Investigations Coordinator for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Beirut Field Office.
My future goals: I intend progressing through the UN system to a position with greater responsibility where I will be able to utilise what I have learned in my MSc.
Describe your time on this programme in three words: Intellectual passion reignited! I really cannot articulate how fascinating and gratifying I have found this degree so far. It is challenging, but so very worthwhile.- Patrick Wollenhaupt
Where I live: Munich, Germany
Programme of study: MSc Countering Organised Crime and Terrorism
Why I chose to study this programme: Being that I live and work in Germany, only the distance learning provides me with the possibility to take part in the course.
The best bits about studying via distance learning: Distance learning enables me to adjust the workload between my personal and professional needs. The course provides a perfect learning environment with materials accessible from any device at any time. In addition, through distance learning one is able to virtually meet and exchange views and opinions with other students interested in the same subjects from all over the world!
The challenges of distance learning study: It needs a lot of discipline and self-management to keep on track and it might get hard sometimes to find enough time in your free time to commit to the course.
My current job: Detective Chief Inspector in the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office.
My future goals: Boosting my knowledge and skills to take a leadership role in countering organised crime and terrorism.
Describe your time on this programme in three words: A great choice! While the course itself is very attractive and outcome-focused, UCL's Information Service Division provides all the software needed in a professional work environment, such as Microsoft Office 365 and many more.- Jenna Hurst
Where I live: Canada
Programme of study: MSc Countering Organised Crime and Terrorism
Why I chose to study this programme: The Jill Dando Institute, situated within the Department of Security and Crime Science at UCL, is the only one in the world to offer the study of crime science which applies scientific research to find practical ways to reduce crime. Not only does it take a multidisciplinary approach by admitting students from all sorts of disciplines, it actually encourages it and thrives by it. I come from a business background, so I was grateful for that. I'm also a parent and work full time, so the distance learning option was very appealing to me. Once I began my studies, I quickly realized that the MSc COCT distance learning option is a well-oiled machine. Mentors and module convenors are never far away; the Moodle learning site is always up-to-date with readings and lectures; and, I can access it any time I want. This programme gives me the freedom I need to accomplish my academic goals, while also raising a family and building my career.
The best bits about studying via distance learning: As a working professional and a parent, the idea of squeezing in another activity during the weekday seems daunting. Distance learning provides me the flexibility to listen to lectures at my own pace, anytime I want and from anywhere in the world. I love that I can study at my own pace.
The challenges of distance learning study: I honestly don't find that there are any challenges to completing this programme through distance learning. In fact, I feel it's quite the opposite. Everything is available when I need it. For me, I would say there is a 'downside' to any type of distance learning, which is that you don't have natural opportunities to physically meet new people. I sometimes wish I could attend on campus, simply so that I could meet people and take part in Department workshops and socials.
My current job: Intelligence Analyst.
My future goals: I would like to become a consultant in crime reduction
Describe your time on this programme in three words: Eye-opening; stimulating; fulfilling! The distance learning offered through the Department of Security and Crime Science is very well done and I've enjoyed my first year very much. Thank you!