LIVERPOOL HOPE UNIVERSITY
Graduation 2019
www.hope.ac.uk
Liverpool Hope University
Graduation 2019
What’s inside
4 The Class of 2019
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Alumni collect Honorary Degrees
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Graduates share their stories
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Where are they now?
Hope named top University in Liverpool
Welcome from Professor Pillay As I watched the Class of 2019 walk down the steps of the Cathedral, applauded by tutors, friends and family, I felt a real sense that the city of Liverpool was celebrating alongside us. Liverpool is a great place for students. Those of you from Liverpool will have experienced the city in a new way during your studies, enjoying its vibrant social life, sport, rich collection of museums and galleries, and its music. Many of you who came from outside the city may have chosen to make Liverpool your home; a place to build a career, to pursue further study, to raise a family. A place where you have been welcomed from your first day in town. At Liverpool Hope, we - like our city - pride ourselves on our warm welcome and strong pastoral care. Which is why we are proud to be top 2 in the UK for graduate employment, with 98.1 per cent of our graduates in employment or further education six months after graduating (Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey results 2016/17). Of the many people I spoke to during Graduation week, I heard again and again how the individual care, support and encouragement of our tutors made a real difference to their lives. Wherever in the world you will go, you go with both a sound education and a real understanding of the need for care and compassion for others. I urge you to seek truth, beauty and goodness in all that you do. It will not be easy. But it will make a difference. Graduation is not the end. It is the beginning of unimaginable new opportunities. I wish you all the very best. Professor Gerald J. Pillay Vice-Chancellor & Rector
Published by Liverpool Hope University, Hope Park, L16 9JD. Tel: 0151 291 3000 Email: goodnews@hope.ac.uk Website: www.hope.ac.uk/goodnews
Liverpool Hope has retained its place as the city’s top University in the latest Guardian University League Tables 2020. In the new tables, Hope is not only ranked higher than the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores, it also remains top three in the North West region. That means Liverpool Hope is placed above Edge Hill University, Manchester Metropolitan, University of Chester, University of Bolton, University of Salford, University of Cumbria and University of Central Lancashire. The latest tables build on the successes in the recent Complete University Guide 2020, in which Hope was ranked fifth in the UK for student satisfaction. The University was also top in the North West in the same category - a guide to how satisfied students are with the quality of teaching they receive.
Designed in house at Liverpool Hope University. Cover image: Graduates celebrate the end of their studies.
The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of Liverpool Hope University. 3
The Class of 2019 Graduation sees four days of celebrations across campus.
Students were joined by their family and friends across four days of celebrations, as the University marked the end of their studies and the start of the next chapter. Opening the festivities were two ceremonies celebrating aspiring teachers, who collected their Postgraduate Certificates in Education (PGCE) and Postgraduate Diplomas of Education (PGDE). This was followed by a special ceremony in honour of Liverpool Hope’s 175th anniversary, which saw more than 600 alumni receive Honorary Bachelor of Education degrees. The University presented the awards to former students who received a CertEd before 1980. Four special guests received Honorary Degrees at this year’s Graduation ceremonies; Archbishop Paul R. 4
Gallagher, Professor Monica Grady, Sir Peter Lampl and Professor Simon Armitage. They received Honorary Awards in recognition of both the contributions they have made to their specific fields, and the way they uphold the missions and values of the University. In keeping with tradition, the Honoraries delivered a speech designed to inspire the next generation as they prepare to go out into the world. See if you can spot yourself on pictures from this summer’s Graduation celebrations: www.flickr.com/photos/liverpoolhopeuniversity/albums Re-live the day’s celebrations with our Graduation video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkfJC0_-SyY
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Global adventures for Andrew From working in the University gym to studying in France, Andrew Robertson seized every opportunity during his time at Liverpool Hope. I initially chose Liverpool Hope because of its unique course combinations that no other universities offered. I originally started a Business Management and Sport & Physical Education degree, as an extension to my early personal training career. However, after just a week, I realised the business curriculum would benefit me more than sport, as a result of the experience I already had. I decided to change my degree to Business Management and Marketing. My expectations prior to attending university consisted of a good student life, competent lecturers, internships and business opportunities, and an increased network. Of which, I received all. Halls situated on campus made for an incredible student life, the small class sizes increased the lecturers’ autonomy to educate you past the restraints of the curriculum, and business dinners and events gave me the opportunity to network. The support from my tutors was exceptional. I’ve heard from friends who attended other universities, that it’s often archetypal of lecturers to reply in weeks, and often the replies are very short and abrupt. However, at Liverpool Hope, I often got a response from tutors on the same day, sometimes even arranging a meeting for later that day.
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In my second year, I received an Erasmus Scholarship to study abroad in Lyon, France, for a full year. This was one of the best experiences of my life. I became competent in French as a result of the free French lessons and was able to have conversations in French in which I could articulate myself. The grant allowed me to travel all over Europe during my semester breaks, and I now have friends all over the world. I actually just spent a month in Mexico with a close Mexican friend who I met in France. He showed me things I’d of never been able to see and this wouldn’t have been possible if I never went abroad. I had many positive moments at the University. From coming second in the Lille and Ghent business games, pitching marketing sponsorships at the Everton headquarters, to achieving a First. Although my favourite achievement was learning French. I have just received a job at Fresh Thinking Capital in Leeds. They are a company who provide alternative financing to small businesses, and who also provide lending and financial structuring advice. My role will be an investment portfolio assistant, but I will also be working with an outsourced marketing company to create marketing material and strategies. My dream job is small business consultancy, so I couldn’t have asked for a better role coming straight out of university.
Inspiring the next generation
What our graduates said “I love Liverpool – the city and social scene are brilliant. I’m from Birmingham and the University was recommended to me by a school teacher. I’d never been to Liverpool before coming to Hope, but I’ve made a lot of great friends here and several of my tutors have been the best teachers I’ve ever had.” Noah Shekhon, BSc Psychology “I completed my undergraduate degree back home in Belfast, but wanted to come to Hope after hearing great things about the PGCE course. The experience was great, and I loved studying on such a picturesque campus.” Enya Maguire, PGCE Primary
For mum-of-two Sarah Barmby, undertaking a degree was not only the chance to switch careers, but also make her family proud. With two young children at home, Sarah Barmby made the decision to return to education so she could secure a future her kids would be proud of. The Liverpool local explained how balancing university and family life was a challenge at times. She said: “I’d been thinking about what to do with my life and wanted the girls to be proud of me, so decided to apply for a History degree. “Studying on a full-time course with a six and four-year-old at home took some getting used to, but I’ve enjoyed it so much I’ve applied to do a Masters, before hopefully going on to complete a PGCE Secondary course. “I was undecided between Chester and Liverpool Hope, but the atmosphere at the Open Day and family feel meant Hope was the one for me.”
“Coming to an Open Day helped confirm that Liverpool Hope was the University for me. I like the small community feel, and it seemed like the right fit. I’m returning in September to complete a PGCE and would ultimately like to work with primary age children with special needs.” Jodie-Lee Boardman, BA Education and Special Educational Needs “I’ve already got a job to go into at English Martyrs Catholic Primary School in Litherland. The course has been challenging but fun. I’ve learned so much and everyone has been really supportive. My highlight was some of the trips with my placement schools to places like Croxteth Park. I think working in a school will be really rewarding – it’s seeing the kids you teach progress.” Jack Buckton, PGCE Primary 7
Returning alumni celebrate Former students who received a Certificate in Education before 1980, were invited to a very special Graduation celebration. Bursting with pride, they came from near and far to savour a graduation ceremony with a difference.
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Some in their 90s, the years nevertheless fell away as old friends were reunited in the sunshine.
Many have retired from long and successful careers in teaching, but said receiving their Honorary Bachelor of Education degree was an unexpected and welcome highlight. Barbara Fry, 92, studied at the Sisters of Notre Dame Mount Pleasant Training College between 1946 and 1948.
Around 600 former students who studied to be teachers at Liverpool Hope University’s founding colleges - some during WW2 - received Honorary degrees.
She received her degree watched by daughters Anne Watson, Stephanie Williams and Julie Plumb, who all followed her into a career in teaching.
The University welcomed back alumni who received a CertEd before 1980 during a special celebration watched by their loved ones.
Mrs Williams, who also went to one of Hope’s founding institutions, Christ’s College, made the trip from Adelaide, Australia, to attend.
“It was wonderful,” said Barbara, from Chester. “I have only fond memories of my time at Notre Dame – the friends I made and how helpful and kind the nuns were. “I’m very proud to have got a degree after all this time.”
Afterwards the new graduates made their way to the Rector’s Lawn to enjoy tea and cake. Some had their photograph taken in a robe and mortar board.
“I have only fond memories of my time at Notre Dame – the friends I made and how helpful and kind the nuns were.” Philomena Bleasdale, 78, came with her daughter Sue Chapman. Although originally from Wigan, the pair made the trip from Sussex where they now live.
The graduates received their certificates after a ceremony in Hope Park sports centre, which featured a mix of music, prayer and memories.
Mrs Bleasdale (pictured below) had a successful 50-year career in secondary school teaching after studying at Notre Dame Mount Pleasant between 1959 and 1961.
“It was wonderful... I’m very proud to have got a degree after all this time.” Revd Canon Peter Winn presented an honorary degree certificate to Irene Slack, a member of Hope’s Alumni Association, and current student Eleanor Jones, who accepted the certificate on behalf of all the graduates. The two women then reflected on their experiences as trainee teachers at Liverpool Hope University, before an address from guest Sir Christopher Stone.
“I was the first person in my family to go into higher education,” she said. “My dad was a miner and my mum worked in a factory, but they encouraged me to pursue my education. “I had a long, enjoyable career and went on to do a highranking diploma. But I can’t tell you what receiving this degree means to me. It’s an affirmation of my life’s work.”
“I had a long, enjoyable career and went on to do a highranking diploma. But I can’t tell you what receiving this degree means to me. It’s an affirmation of my life’s work.” Sir Christopher, who received a knighthood in 2013 in recognition of his outstanding service to education, was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Education honoris causa by Liverpool Hope in 2018.
The event followed the PGCE ceremony for current students in the morning and the campus was bustling with visitors as summer graduation season began in memorable fashion.
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Degrees awarded to inspirational honoraries Four Honorary Degrees were awarded at this year’s summer Graduation ceremonies. Archbishop Paul Gallagher Senior Vatican Priest Archbishop Paul Gallagher was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa) in recognition of his role as a distinguished ecclesiastical ambassador. Archbishop Gallagher was appointed to the role of Secretary for Relations with States by the Pope in 2014. It is a position similar to a foreign minister, charged with liaising with national governments on behalf of the Vatican. Speaking ahead of the ceremony, when the Archbishop addressed Hope’s latest graduates, he said he felt “greatly honoured”. “Liverpool Hope has a real vitality about it,” he said. “It is a fine institution in my home city and one where everyone is nurtured – not just in an educational sense – but also as people and in faith.” Archbishop Gallagher was a pupil at St Francis Xavier School, and started his ministry in Fazakerley. He was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Derek Worlock at the Metropolitan Cathedral in July 1977. His career so far has included working across the world – with roles in Tanzania, Uruguay, the Philippines, Strasbourg, Burundi, Guatemala, Australia and Rome.
Sir Peter Lampl Social mobility champion Sir Peter Lampl hailed the progress made in making the UK less elitist as he accepted his honorary doctorate. The founder and chairman of the Sutton Trust, which he set up to address educational disadvantage and create opportunities for working class young people, said “the dial has moved forward” since he started it in 1997. After a successful career in business he set up his own private equity firm, the Sutton Company, and became one of the 200 wealthiest people in the UK. He said he was inspired to start the Sutton Trust when he visited his old school and realised that “he couldn’t have got in then” as it had subsequently become a fee-paying establishment. Sir Peter, who was made a Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa), is also chair of the Education Endowment Foundation, funded by a Government grant of £135m to raise the attainment of children in the most challenging schools.
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Professor Monica Grady Leading space expert Professor Monica Grady discussed how she is comfortable “not trying to reconcile” her faith and science, as she collected her honorary doctorate at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. The highly-respected academic, who was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa), is Professor of Planetary and Space Science at the Open University and has worked with the European Space Agency. She gave the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures in 2003, and even has an asteroid named after her. Professor Grady, who is a Roman Catholic, said religion and science need not be mutually exclusive. She said: “I don’t feel it necessary to – and I can’t – explain how an asteroid forms as an act of God. “Then there’s the Big Bang. I’m not saying God pointed a finger and said: “Let there be a Big Bang”. Physics will explain that. “You can’t explain it in terms of religion and you can’t explain it on behalf of God and I don’t think she’d mind. She’s very busy.” Professor Grady, who was made a CBE in 2012 for services to space sciences, said she was “overwhelmed” when she told she would receive Hope’s Honorary Doctorate. “I burst into tears when I got the letter,” she said. “It’s a lovely honour.”
Professor Simon Armitage While collecting his Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa), Poet Laureate Simon Armitage described how attending university is about “living not just learning”. Professor Armitage, who succeeded Carol Ann Duffy to become the 21st poet laureate in May, is currently Professor of Poetry at the University of Leeds after fulfilling the same role at Oxford. Speaking at the Graduation ceremony, he said students should use their time at university to grow as people, as well as focusing on their future careers. The Yorkshireman, who also writes for radio, television, film and stage, also expressed concern that liberal arts degrees are dwindling in popularity at UK universities. Professor Armitage, who was awarded the CBE for services to poetry in 2010, said university should not be considered only as a means to an end. “We have noticed a drop in numbers of applications for subjects such as English and I’m sure it’s to do with concerns students and their families have about getting a job at the end of it,” he said. He added that he was delighted to receive his doctorate from Hope. “The really heartening thing about when Hope wrote to me was that they wanted to recognise the work I have done in relation to people who are struggling and on the margins of society.” 11
Celebrating with family Proud family watch student overcome illness to collect Diploma. Behind most graduates is a story of hard-work, dedication and family support. For Niamh Drayne, that’s perhaps truer than most. The 24-year-old student’s life was turned upside down last year when an optician’s appointment led to her being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. Within weeks she had undergone surgery to remove the malignant growth, which has led to further problems including severe infection, temporary blindness and ongoing speech difficulties. Niamh had already put two years of hard work into her BA degree in Early Childhood & Education when her illness forced her to drop out last November. The University awarded Niamh a Diploma in Higher Education in recognition of her two years of study. 12
Niamh’s father Michael said: “She’s been extremely strong and we’re very proud of her. The past eight months have been hell in many ways, but as a family we don’t give up. Now it’s a case of physiotherapy and speech therapy to help her recover.
“Watching her collect her diploma was very special. I was nearly overcome with emotion.” “Watching her collect her diploma was very special. I was nearly overcome with emotion and we were treated so well by the University. She loved Liverpool and would like to go back one day when she’s better.”
#Classof2019 Social media was full of tweets and posts from our staff and graduates, as they celebrated Graduation.
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FACT residency for Artist Ivy
For the love of Liverpool
Charmed by Liverpool, Kent native Scott Harding had no doubts about where to study for his PGCE Secondary with Biology. I studied my undergraduate and Masters degrees in Liverpool and loved the city, so knew I wanted to complete my PGCE here. Liverpool is completely different to what I think a lot of people expect and the nightlife is the best in the country. Everyone is so friendly and always have a smile.
Ivy Kalungi pursues passion for Art through residency and Masters. My choice of universities was based on the specific course I wanted to study. I’m originally from Belfast, and had heard Fine Art at Hope was a great course, as you get lots of guidance and classes are small and intimate.
“Fine Art at Hope was a great course, as you get lots of guidance and classes are small and intimate.”
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I’m from Kent and wanted to be at least three hours away from home when I was looking at where to go to university. I’ve lived in Liverpool since 2012 and originally studied Zoology, going on to work at Chester Zoo. I worked with the Zoo’s education department and really enjoyed engaging with school children who came to visit. The more time I spent working with the kids, the more I realised I wanted to be in the classroom.
My time here has been amazing, with the opportunities everything and more than you could imagine. I got involved in all sorts while a student, including working as a course rep, which provided great insights.
The PGCE year was a challenge – you’re thrown in and hit the ground running - but I enjoyed it and loved seeing the awe and wonder on the kids’ faces when they’re learning about topics like Space.
I was awarded a FACT & Liverpool Hope residency at the end of year Degree Show and will be working on a new piece of sculpture during my two-month residency. Using FACT’s expertise, I’m planning to create an installation exploring sculptures in film, before continuing my Fine Art studies with a Masters.
I’ve got a job in the Science Department at Hope Academy in Merseyside, which is where I completed my first placement during the PGCE year.
What our graduates said “I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was four years old and chose Hope as it has one of the best reputations for teaching. The course has been challenging, but I really enjoyed my placements and the tutors are very supportive if you need it.” Erin Robertson, BA Primary Education with QTS “One of the highlights of my time at Hope is the trip we took as a course to Plas Caerdeon in Wales. We did lots of fun team building activities and it was a great way to get to know each other.” Natalie Goddard, BSc Sport Psychology “I’m originally from Belfast, but was living in France when I decided to come to Liverpool Hope. I’ve met some great friends and had the chance to do some great placements, including at Everton Football Club.” Declan Wilson, BA Marketing and Sociology “I completed the School Direct programme and have secured a job at a school in Manchester where I spent one of my placements. My History mentor was great, and the lessons were really well thought out, I feel well prepared for the next step.” Catherine Quigley, PGCE Secondary with History
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From small town to big city
Changing for the better
Liverpool proved the ideal introduction to city life for Cornwall native Freya Morrison. I always knew I wanted to study History, and after living in a small town in Cornwall, I was keen to go to university in a big city. My parents suggested Liverpool, as it’s full of history and a culturally rich city, and after attending an Open Day I fell in love with the campus. Hope really appealed to me, as the smaller campus university feeling was not too different to being from a small town. You’re not lost in a crowd and if you need help, there is always someone there. It took me a while to get used to living away from home, but the city is so friendly, which really helped. Liverpool is very special in that sense, and a great stepping stone city if you’ve never lived in one before. The city breeds kindness and makes you want to help people. Moving away for university brought out confidence in me and prepared me for life in London, where I now live. It’s been character building and I learnt to fall in love with academia. I discovered my strengths, and graduating with a First speaks volumes about the progression I’ve made in my time at Hope. 16
Law graduate Eoghan Rafferty switched his first choice to Hope and never looked back. Liverpool Hope wasn’t my original first choice for university, but after flying over for an Open Day, I got a feeling that Hope was for me. The University seemed to see me as a whole person and didn’t just focus solely on my A levels. As soon as I got home to Belfast I switched my choice on UCAS and planned my move to Liverpool.
“I’ve had the most amazing experience and Graduation has to be the highlight – seeing all my friends and celebrating the last three years.” I’d never visited the city before, but have felt completely at home and found Liverpool to be a fast paced and exciting place to live. There’s always something new – whether it’s a building or a concert, the city is constantly developing. I’ve had the most amazing experience and Graduation has to be the highlight – seeing all my friends and celebrating the last three years.
Where are they now? We caught up with some of our graduates to find out what they’ve been busy doing since leaving Liverpool Hope. Alumna’s portrait of Grandfather exhibits at top US Museum The New York-based artist says her grandfather’s “characterful face with personality” has even moved people to tears. Amy, who graduated with a BA Hons Fine Art degree in 2013, has also sold some of her work at auction in Sotheby’s New York. She said: “I’m very close to my grandparents, and after Grandad died I had an idea to make work about that feeling of losing someone you are so close too.
A loving portrait of her late grandfather landed a former Liverpool Hope University student Amy Hughes an exhibition at a prestigious US art museum. Amy created the oil painting of ex-soldier Harry Smith based on a photograph she took shortly before he died aged 86 in 2012.
“The thought stayed with me and I was sorting through some things a few years later and found that photograph. I was really drawn to it because it is a bit more engaging than the usual staged portrait.” The work – titled Grandfather (Harry) – has been exhibited at the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art’s International Biennale Portrait Competition.
Michael lands dream job in Marrakech
Rashid’s robotic helping hand
Primary Education with QTS graduate Michael Farrell has landed his dream teaching job in a brand-new British school opening in Marrakech, Morocco.
BSc Computer Science and Electronic Engineering graduate Rashid Abdulrahmen has landed a software engineering position with a leading global supplier of robotics.
“The continuous support from all the staff at Liverpool Hope University has been key in unlocking my dream of becoming a primary school teacher,” he said. “I would not change one second of my time at Hope and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope that one day I can return and give back what Hope has given to me.”
Liverpool Hope Alumni All graduates automatically become members of the Hope Alumni Association, which keeps you connected with the Hope community. The Alumni Association is a great way to stay in touch with fellow graduates and staff. Current benefits include: • Postgraduate scholarship opportunities • Regular University news updates
Rashid, who graduated with a First Class Honours degree and was awarded a Prize for Best Performing Student, is excited to get started on his first project designing a system for spraying and coating materials, using an ABB Robotic Hand.
• Ongoing access to the services offered by the Careers team including My Career Centre • Participation in the Alumni Mentoring Scheme • Hope email address for life • Alumni membership of the University’s libraries.* Liverpool Hope’s Alumni Association also hosts and facilitates a number of social and professional events. For more information, visit: www.hope.ac.uk/alumni *£30 per year for this Library membership. 17
Beyond Graduation
Your relationship with Hope doesn’t end when you graduate. You have access to Careers & Employability support free of charge for a further three years. So whether you’re job hunting, considering further study or looking for early careers support, we’re here for you.
What next? If you’re unsure of your next step, why not speak to a Careers Adviser? You can access advice and guidance via Careers Express, a drop-in service every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10.30am – 12.30pm during term-time. There’s no need to book to see a Careers Adviser for a 15-minute chat during Careers Express, just head to The Employability Hub in the Gateway Building at Hope Park . Alternatively, you can book a 45-minute in-depth career advice and planning session. If you don’t live locally, don’t worry, as telephone and Skype appointments are available. To book, just contact careers@hope.ac.uk.
My Careers Centre – jobs, events and more Our free, online resource - My Careers Centre - gives you 24/7 access to jobs, event listings, career tutorials and activities. With over 1,500 employer insight videos, a CV builder and lots more, it’s packed full of advice and support. You’ll find exclusive jobs listed under My Jobs and all our workshops, fairs and events listed under My Events. Visit mycareerscentre.page.link/alumni to login.
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As a Liverpool Hope graduate, your responses can help shape the future of higher education for years to come. You’ll receive an email from Graduate Outcomes about 15 months after you complete your course, to see what you’re up to. It’s a quick 10-minute catch up and you can do it online, on any device. We love hearing about work or study you’ve gone on to do, so keep your contact details up-to-date via our Alumni Office (alumni@hope.ac.uk) so we can keep in touch.
The Blog You can find tips, advice and careers stories on our blog at www.liverpoolhopecareers.com. If you’ve got a great story to share contact us via careers@hope.ac.uk
Stay connected You’ll find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with all the latest graduate jobs, opportunities and events. @hopeunicareers
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YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES Congratulations on completing your undergraduate studies. Now is the time to look to the future and make decisions on the next steps in your life. There are many benefits to postgraduate study such as enhanced career prospects, and an opportunity to change direction to enter a new career following your research passion. Our postgraduate programmes lead to awards including MA, MSc, PGCE, PGDE, PgDip and PgCert, and International MBA. As a reward for academic excellence, we offer Liverpool Hope Postgraduate Scholarships of up to ÂŁ1,000 (terms and conditions apply) for students who achieve a 1st or 2.1 in their undergraduate degree.
For further information on courses, entry requirements and how to apply, please contact External Relations: t: 0151 291 3111 e: enquiry@hope.ac.uk or visit www.hope.ac.uk/postgraduate