MASTERPLAN Preparing for Postgraduate Study at LJMU
IN THIS ISSUE:
Future-proofing your career Believe in yourself Time for a change
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CONTENTS Pages 2-3
Welcome to LJMU
Pages 4-5
News and views
Pages 6-11
Believe in yourself
Pages 12-17 Straight through crew Pages 18-25 Future-proofing your career Pages 26-31 Time for a change Pages 32-33 Postgraduate finance Pages 34-35 First class support
Welcome to MasterPlan – the magazine for those considering postgraduate study at LJMU. We are delighted you are interested in joining us and hope that you will enjoy reading about the experiences of our current students. As those of you who are lucky enough to live here will know, Liverpool is a welcoming, vibrant place, a global city of opportunity. And when it comes to studying in Liverpool, LJMU combines worldclass expertise and facilities with access to outstanding employment opportunities through partnerships with key employers across the UK and beyond. This edition of MasterPlan looks at the career aspirations that inspire our students and the challenges they overcome to succeed. We talk to those who are stepping up the career ladder thanks to their postgraduate studies and we discover how higher level study can enable you to change your career path. You’ll hear about the wonders of the city of Liverpool, the expertise of our staff, the quality of our student support and the life-changing skills and knowledge our students have amassed during their time with us.
Pages 36-37 Careers expertise
These fascinating stories demonstrate the power of postgraduate study and the incredible experiences that await you in the wonderful city of Liverpool.
Pages 38-39 A place to call home
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Page 40
Contact details
Cover image: Benn Adu-Opoku, Software Engineering (see pages 6-7)
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Welcome to LJMU LIVERPOOL MAGIC Why do so many students who graduate in Liverpool choose to stay here and make it their home? Well, it could be the legendary scouse welcome or perhaps the feeling of positivity you get everywhere you go. Perhaps it’s the cutting edge arts scene, the great sporting heritage, the stunning architecture, the fabulous nightlife or the sensational shopping.
CULTURE Where to start? Free museums including The World Museum and the Merseyside Maritime Museum, free galleries such as The Tate and the Walker Art Gallery, first class theatre at the RIBA award winning Everyman, the Playhouse, the Empire and the Royal Court as well as classical music at The Philharmonic. You want culture? You’ve got it!
NIGHTLIFE Legendary! With the highlights divided between the city centre, Lark Lane and the Baltic Triangle, there’s something here to suit all tastes. We’d go as far as to say if you’ve never had a night out in Liverpool, you’ve never lived!
It’s hard to settle on one reason in particular but, as those of you already lucky enough to live here will know, Liverpool rocks! ARCHITECTURE Liverpool has been described by English Heritage as England’s finest Victorian city. We’re talking over 2,500 listed buildings in the city - 27 Grade I and 85 Grade II listed. And if that isn’t impressive enough, Liverpool’s waterfront is a designated World Heritage Site.
EATING OUT Something of a foodie? You’re sure to fall in love with Liverpool’s extensive range of international restaurants. And if you’re into café culture, you’ll genuinely be spoilt for choice.
SHOPPING With independent retailers aplenty and every big name you could ask for, Liverpool’s got it covered when it comes to that all important retail therapy.
GREEN SPACES Sefton Park with its historic Palm House, Calderstones Park with its 1,000 year old oak tree and Stanley Park with its Grade II listed Isla Gladstone Conservatory. Come summer, it’s revision and lunch al fresco.
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SPORT Football you say? You’ve come to the right place! Visits to Anfield and Goodison are an absolute must during your time at LJMU no matter whether you are a ‘red’, a ‘blue’ or somewhere in between. Hungry for more? Take a look at itsliverpool.com
NEWS AND VIEWS
WORKING WITH THE BEST
In preparation for this year’s Rugby World Cup, England Head Coach Eddie Jones recently brought the Northern-based players of his squad to LJMU to utilise the state-of-the-art sport science facilities. Players underwent physical testing including heat familiarisation tests in the School’s environmental chambers. This recreates the exact climate the team can expect to face during the World Cup in Japan. The session was coordinated by MSc Sports Nutrition lead and England Rugby Nutritionist, Professor Graeme Close. Eddie and his team were delighted with their visit. “It’s been great spending the day here at LJMU,” he said. “The facilities are first class.” Professor Close has worked with England Rugby for three seasons. “It was brilliant to get the lads to LJMU and help prepare them for Japan,” he commented. “I am very fortunate to work in a sport science department that attempts to translate the science we teach to applied practice and today was a perfect example of that. This is why there is nowhere better in the UK to study sport science”.
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KEEPING IT FRESH Continually investing in facilities, the University has announced a major refurbishment of - and a brand new extension to - the Tithebarn Building for the School of Nursing and Allied Health. The project, due for completion in 2020, also includes a refurbishment of the Avril Robarts Library as part of our wider libraries enhancement programme. Work is already underway at Copperas Hill - location for the new Student Life and Sports Buildings - and construction of the fantastic new pavilion at the Aldham Robarts library is also underway. Work on the neighbouring School of Education building is also well-advanced and scheduled for completion in late 2019.
TOP MARKS FOR TEACHING With ratings of ‘Good’ at Secondary level and ‘Outstanding’ at Primary level, the School of Education was delighted with the results of its recent Ofsted inspection. The report noted that the University is dedicated to training a supply of ‘well-qualified, committed and socially engaged teachers who are prepared to make a positive difference to the life chances of pupils across Merseyside and beyond.’
“It is a brilliant result and report with richly deserved recognition for the fantastic work done by all colleagues in the ITE Team,” commented School of Education Director, Dr Cheryl Bolton (below). “This successful Ofsted is the result of both ongoing partnership building and programme development.”
In relation to teachers’ workload - an area cited by teaching unions to be a major cause of teachers leaving the profession - the inspectors said LJMU demonstrates an ongoing commitment to reducing trainee workload, adding that lecturers are also dedicated to ensuring there is a wide range of effective support for mental health and wellbeing. Inspectors also found that, across both primary and secondary phases, the proportion of trainees who find employment locally, nationally and internationally is consistently high.
ARMCHAIR EXPLORER If you’ve ever wanted to check out the amazing facilities at LJMU’s Byrom Street campus, you can now take a peek from the comfort of your armchair!
Our new Google Maps style tour brings to life maritime simulators, engineering laboratories, recording studios, social spaces, lecture halls, the e-Racing Team workshop and many more of the impressive facilities within the Faculty of Engineering and Technology. The online tool allows you to get a good sense of the campus whether you’re based half way across the world or live locally but can’t face the Liverpool weather. So, why not take a stroll and see what you can find? As you make your way around the buildings, interactive hotspots featuring video and other information allow you to explore areas of interest.
To take the tour go to: ljmu.ac.uk/FET-virtual-tour
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BELIEVE IN YOURSELF Whether you’re worried about your ability, you’re returning to education after a long time away or you’ve simply had difficulty finding the right path, Masters study can really boost your self-belief.
SECURING HIS FUTURE When Benn Adu-Opoku studied for his undergraduate degree in Software Engineering at LJMU he admits that he found the three years as academically challenging as they were enjoyable. He never imagined, therefore, that he would now be back at LJMU studying for his Masters in Cyber Security.
I decided to give it a go, I knew I had to return to LJMU,” he says. Yet again Benn has been delighted by the support provided by his tutors. “I am, of course, comfortable with the technical side of things but I do find the academic writing something of a challenge,” he admits. “That said, I’m getting all the help I need and currently doing great. The support from LJMU makes me feel confident and that is really important.”
“When I started my undergraduate degree I had recently arrived in the UK from Italy,” says Benn. “My English wasn’t great and so I did find it quite hard. The support I received from the University was outstanding though and, to be honest, played a big part in my decision to return to education.”
Long term Benn would like to start his own Business Systems Development company but, for now, is keen to build up as much knowledge and experience as possible. “I certainly don’t think I will go on to do a PhD,” he laughs, “but I want to get as far as I can as an individual and the support from LJMU is enabling me to do just that.”
Since graduation Benn has worked as a Business Systems Developer. “My manager was really keen for me to study for my Masters and, when
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A NEW STAGE FOR ADI You may think that a woman who has travelled the world, worked tirelessly in the arts and is raising a family would have already achieved most of her goals. According to Adi Lerer, however, taking a Masters in Exhibition Studies is one of the best decisions she has ever made!
usual name badge and brochure experience. I was in a setting where I felt at home, talking to people who shared my interests and passions – by the end of the evening I was hooked!” With some concerns about returning to education after so long away, Adi embarked on the programme last September. “I love it and have told my lecturers I would go to class every day if I could!” she smiles. “Talking to people about the arts is really invigorating and I am actually finding that some of the skills I used as an actress to research character roles are coming into play in my academic research.”
Adi studied A-level Art in Israel, following in her father’s footsteps. She then spent a couple of years studying film before moving to Drama School in London. During the following years, whilst working as an actress in London, across the UK and for a stint in New York, Adi took up contract positions at the National Gallery, London and with the British Council in the Dance and Drama Department. She notably worked on the Cultural Olympiad for the 2012 Olympics.
Adi is hugely appreciative of the support she receives at LJMU. “The tutors here are so welcoming, supportive and attentive,” she says. “The course really opens you up as a person and makes you go and see things. I am learning so much.”
Having started a family, the next few years saw Adi and her husband moving between the USA, Israel and London until a couple of years ago when her husband took up an academic position in Liverpool.
The programme is also having a positive effect on other areas. “Doing a Masters has been really great for my self-esteem,” says Adi. “It’s also good for family life as my girls see me working hard to achieve my goal and that inspires them.”
“I was very happy being a full-time mum but as my girls started school I realised I needed to regenerate, to shift something in my life and focus on my previous passions,” she smiles. Looking around for academic programmes which would satisfy her need, Adi came upon the Exhibitions Studies programme at LJMU. “I contacted Michael - the Programme Leader - to discuss the course, he got back to me very quickly and I was increasingly convinced that the programme was just what I was looking for.”
Having lived all over the world, Adi is very complimentary about Liverpool. “It’s a wonderful city and what makes it are the people,” she reflects. “Everyone here is so friendly and chatty and, although people are busy, it is a different pace of life to London.” So what does the future hold for Adi? “I’d really like to work in a gallery or museum on the curatorial side,” she says. “Masters study has reignited my passion and I’d advise anyone who is considering returning to education to go for it. It really is one of the best decisions I have ever made!”
Attending the annual LJMU Masters in the Making event at the Bluecoat in Liverpool, Adi’s enthusiasm for the programme grew apace. “I loved the event!” she enthuses. “As someone who is passionate about the arts it was perfect for me. Much less formal that your
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FINDING THE RIGHT PATH About to embark on a trip to Tanzania, Primate Behaviour and Conservation student Jodie Larkin couldn’t be happier with her course and her career aspirations. Four years ago, however, the girl from Ormskirk was in a very different place. “I always did well at Chemistry at school so it was an obvious choice for my undergraduate degree,” she recalls. “Having done my A-levels, however, I realised that although it was the obvious choice it wasn’t necessarily one that would make me happy.” Jodie found herself in the scary position of turning down her place at The University of Manchester and going through clearing to find a course which would reflect her passion for animals. “I have always loved animals and regularly volunteered at sanctuaries and rescue centres,” she says. “I thought of it as a hobby though - something I enjoyed doing in my spare time. After my A-levels, however, I realised it could be more than that and, with some encouragement from my mum who is a fellow animal lover, I started to look around.” Offered a place to study Animal Behaviour at LJMU, Jodie started to feel far more excited than she had done about her previous university offer. “I knew I had done the right thing and I was soon able to define my preferences yet further, moving over to the Zoology programme,” she smiles. Jodie’s undergraduate degree included a placement year at the famous Mona Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Girona, Spain. “Staff at LJMU were so good when it came to
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securing my placement, they helped me every step of the way,” she recalls. “The placement itself was absolutely amazing. I worked as a Trainee Primate Keeper so I was involved in food and enrichment preparation, education talks and more. I learned so many skills, made lots of friends and became inspired to specialise in primates.” Back in the UK for her final year of study, Jodie started searching for Masters courses. “I looked at programmes in Oxford and Durham but realised they really couldn’t compete with the world-leading academics and expertise on offer at LJMU” she says. “The Primate Behaviour and Conservation programme was exactly what I was looking for.” Jodie is loving every minute of her studies and is currently getting ready for a two week field trip to Tanzania where she will see chimpanzees in the wild for the first time. “I really can’t wait,” she says. “The chance to collect data on primate behaviour in the wild is such a huge thing for me. It’s a taste of what I want to do long term and that’s very exciting.” On graduation Jodie wants to work as a Research Assistant, exploring her interest in primate social behaviour and ecological aspects of primatology. “Long term I want to move into academia but my ultimate goal is to help save chimpanzees in the wild so they are still around for my children and grandchildren to experience” she smiles. “What I once considered merely a hobby is going to be my career and that makes me very happy and proud.”
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STRAIGHT THROUGH CREW Although many of our higher level students come to us with work experience under their belt, others prefer to do their Masters straight after their undergraduate degree and even, in some cases, go on to PhD.
ENGINEERING HIS FUTURE When James Randles graduated with a BEng in Mechanical Engineering, he didn’t even consider going straight into employment, deciding instead to complete his education with a Masters.
always let us know about opportunities,” he says. “Staff are good at putting you in touch with other specialists across the University to help you develop in associated areas.” So what advice does James have for those considering postgraduate study? “Don’t worry about going on to Masters study from an undergraduate degree. It’s not daunting, it is different but it is also comfortable and familiar. There’s an integrated flow from undergraduate to postgraduate level – it’s not a big jump. Even those who are changing direction will find that lecturers offer enough support and provide additional reading to get you up to speed and fill in any gaps.”
“I wanted to continue whilst I was still enjoying studying,” he says. “I knew and liked the lecturers and the way they taught. Add to that the 20% tuition fee discount and I didn’t even consider another University.” Moving up to postgraduate study was not harder, according to James, though it was certainly more intense. “You have to study more before you do the work,” he explains. “There is a lot of reading to do so you can back up the points you make. In terms of difficulty, I actually found the Masters a nice progression from undergraduate level.”
On graduation James wants to work in the automotive industry, taking on a role in a large company so he can identify the particular aspect of work he would like to move into. “Postgraduate study really prepares you for the workplace,” he says. “I’m looking forward to getting out there and following the career path I’ve always wanted.”
Another aspect that has smoothed James’ path into postgraduate study has been the first class support available. “The careers team are great and our lecturers
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IT ALL ADDS UP FOR PHILIPPA When it came to applying for a Masters, LJMU Maths graduate Philippa McCabe had no hesitation in choosing the Data Science programme at the University. “Not only did my undergraduate course feed nicely into to the programme, the lecturers at LJMU are so helpful and the amount of opportunities I was given at undergraduate level was simply amazing,” she says. “Staying at LJMU was an obvious choice.”
she is spending more time on site than she did during her undergraduate degree. “It is completely worth the extra time though,” she enthuses. “The support is always there for you and tutors will explain things for a second time or even a dozen times if you need it, giving all kinds of examples until you truly understand the concept.” It is this continued support that has inspired Philippa to continue her studies yet further with a PhD. “I want to go as far as I can with my studies and then move into pharmaceutical statistics to make a real difference,” she says. “Taking the next step in education was absolutely the right decision for me. I’ve got friends who have a year’s work experience and are now coming back to do their Masters and I have friends who wish they had never left education in the first place. I’d advise anyone to stay on for their Masters, it really can transform your future.”
Offered as a partnership between the Department of Applied Maths and the Astrophysics Research Institute, the Data Science programme focuses on how to use big data in real world situations, considering applications which benefit the wider community. “We are using ground-breaking techniques,” says Philippa. “We are boosting our programming skills and gaining vital knowledge to prepare us for work in Data Analytics.” As for the step up to postgraduate study, Philippa admits that, although there are less University teaching days,
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SAM’S PARIS MATCH After five years studying at LJMU, Samuel Bennett is - temporarily - off to pastures new! The John Moores stalwart is off to spend six months in Paris at the Institut National du Sport de L’expertise et de la Performance as part of his PhD.
he says. “That made it all the more enjoyable, however, when I was able to focus on my own research in the third semester.” Sam is very positive about the support available from LJMU. “The relationship with your tutors at Masters level develops into a personal thing,” he smiles. “Staff are really there for you. Of course, with smaller class sizes there is nowhere to hide if you haven’t prepared your work on time but, as tutors have an open door policy, you can always get the help you need when you need it.”
Sam has been involved with LJMU for many years. Before joining the University as a student, he was involved in scientific trials here as a keen national level cyclist. “I came to study for my degree in Sport and Exercise Science when I was 19,” he says. “I knew even then that I wanted to go on to do a PhD and so a Masters would be my next step.”
On completing his Masters, Sam searched high and low for appropriate PhD opportunities, looking at options in Birmingham and Nottingham before seeing exactly what he wanted back at LJMU. “It suited my area of interest perfectly so I was delighted when I was accepted,” he smiles.
Enjoying a good rapport with his tutors and planning to develop his Masters major project from his undergraduate research, Sam was settled on continuing his studies at LJMU. “I didn’t want to start again and had no reason to do so,” he explains. “I was familiar with LJMU, the staff and the facilities. The only decision was whether to study Physiology or Nutrition and I was able to talk to my lecturers at length to help me make that decision.”
As a venture between LJMU and the French Institute of Sport, Sam’s PhD is taking him off to Paris for six months working on athletic nutritional strategies in the build up to the next Olympic cycle. “The move is both exciting and a little daunting,” admits Sam. “I’m busy learning French and preparing myself to settle into a new institution after five years at LJMU. I feel very much at home here so the change is sure to take me out of my comfort zone. At this level, however, you simply have to challenge yourself and I’m very much looking forward to doing just that!”
Opting for a Masters in Sport and Exercise Physiology, Sam admits to seeing a significant step up from undergraduate study. “In many ways it was more challenging and more intense, with assessments coming thick and fast over the first two semesters,”
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FUTURE-PROOFING YOUR CAREER Higher level study puts you at the cutting edge of your subject area, exploring the latest thinking and preparing you for the workplace.
WORLD-LEADERS IN LEARNING Graduating with a degree in Physiotherapy from a neighbouring university, Harry Bailey knew he hadn’t finished learning. Interested in neurology and human movement, he was delighted to find that one of the top ranking programmes in Sport and Clinical Biomechanics was based just down the road at LJMU.
In terms of tutor support, Harry couldn’t have been happier with LJMU. “The support here is definitely better than my previous university,” he says. “Each week, tutors put aside four hours of office time for us and we are always welcomed and accommodated. They support us with everything from technical issues to career plans, explaining how to tailor ourselves and our learning to fit different roles.”
“The way the course was put together fitted really well with my clinical background,” he explains. “Although the learning was certainly a step up, the support also steps up and, as class sizes go down, you are very much cushioned on your journey.”
Having always intended to leave academia after his Masters, Harry surprised himself by taking on a PhD at LJMU. “The opportunity arose to work with LJMU: a world leader in Biomechanics and Alder Hey: a world leader in the treatment of Cerebral Palsy. I just couldn’t turn it down,” he says. “As to the future, I had planned to work as an Advanced Physiotherapist but I am now thinking that I would like to lecture in this area and hopefully inspire my students the way LJMU staff have inspired me.”
With opportunities to work in the clinical field proving few and far between, Harry was delighted to be able to experience, at close hand, the ground breaking work at Alder Hey. “You could see how the theoretical work we were doing was related to practice,” he says. “Add to that university visits from organisations like Sport England and we started to understand how to apply our learning.”
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FROM MACAU TO MASTERS A throwaway comment from a former employer in Macau pretty much transformed the life of Pui Hang Choi (Phoebe). The journalist turned copywriter is celebrating a distinction in her dissertation having graduated with a MSc in Public Relations.
meant we had opportunities to really discuss things,” she says. “We looked at lots of case studies and live projects and a local Communication Director came in to hear us pitch.” Being the only international student on her course Phoebe was initially concerned about her English skills. “I had no need to worry,” she recalls. “I spoke to my tutor very early on and he sent me lots of links and gave me a great deal of support to develop my English.”
“I originally graduated eight years ago in Macau where I studied Journalism and Public Communication,” Phoebe explains. “I worked for three years as a broadcast journalist but then moved into copywriting. It was during this time that my manager questioned my English language skills. It really upset me at first but I was aware that I wasn’t as good as I could be in that area so I decided to further my education and build my language skills by studying for a Masters in the UK.”
University support was equally good in terms of course content: “Even when my tutor and I couldn’t meet in person we were able to arrange Skype meetings and every email I sent received a quick response,” Phoebe explains. During her course Phoebe was lucky enough to get three weeks work experience at a local agency. “My professor put me forward for the role and I loved every minute,” she enthuses. “It enabled me to experience PR in practice and made me even more excited about my future.”
Looking around for possible courses Phoebe found several options in England. “I did a LOT of research,” she laughs. “I spent hours on the internet and went to an education fair in Hong Kong. I wanted a course with very practical modules plus digital marketing was very important to me so the balance of topics on LJMU’s Public Relations course was just right.”
And in terms of that future, where does Phoebe see herself in a year’s time? “Definitely working in a fast paced PR agency,” she smiles. “If I’m honest I would love to find a job in Liverpool – I’ve fallen in love with the city and its people and it’s so cheap to live here too. You can buy a house in Liverpool for the price of a parking space in Macau! Whatever the outcome though, I know I’ll be able to work in the industry I love with the confidence to take on a bi-lingual role. I’ve really enjoyed my time at LJMU.”
Having never visited the North West of England before, Phoebe was delighted to find that she felt very much at home in Liverpool. “The people are just so friendly,” she says. “I joined a running club when I arrived so I met lots of local people. Everyone is really talkative here so it is very easy to make friends.” As soon as she began her studies, Phoebe knew she had chosen well. “The class size was small and that
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THE PERFECT COMBINATION When your passions in life are Biology and Art, you may think you’d struggle to find a career which satisfies both. US student Sophia Charuhas, however, has travelled 3500 miles to do just that!
Zoology, Art History and Linguistics. We study something new and exciting every week. There are lots of guest lectures offering expert insight as well as the chance to get behind the scenes at prestigious venues such as the World Museum.”
“At undergraduate level I majored in Biology but also studied Studio Art,” says the graduate of Liberty University in Virginia. “I was the only student intending to pursue both subjects as a career but I found the combination really enjoyable.”
Although she admits that there is a lot more self-guided study at Masters level than undergraduate, Sophia has been pleased with the amount of support available at LJMU. “My tutors are super friendly and helpful,” she says. “I have had weekly appointments with them since I joined the course and I can always get in touch inbetween times if I need to.”
Searching for a way to combine her passions yet further, Sophia looked at Masters programmes in the US, Canada, the UK and the Netherlands before settling on the Art in Science programme at LJMU. “I never expected to study abroad,” she smiles. “I wasn’t really used to being more than one state away from home so planning to live overseas was quite a step.”
As for Liverpool itself, Sophia loves the city. “I had never been here before I joined the course, in fact I had only been to the UK once on a short study tour,” she says. “Liverpool is really friendly and super walkable. The other advantage is how easy it is to explore from here. Along with my new friends I have been visiting the UK’s national parks at the weekend and we have had some great times.”
Fortunately, Sophia found the LJMU application and accommodation booking processes very straight forward. “The visa application was a little more complicated however and, given the chance to repeat the process, I would certainly have applied sooner,” she admits.
So, what’s next on the schedule for the artist from Maryland? “I’d like to return to the US and look for openings in medical and scientific illustration,” she says. “The knowledge I am gaining during my Masters will put me in the best possible position to combine my passions and pursue my chosen career.”
Now well into her studies, Sophia is very happy with her choice of programme: “I love my studies,” she says. “The course is very theoretical in approach but I like that. There are seven of us studying together and we all come from very different backgrounds including
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A PASSION FOR FASHION When Rebecca Langton graduated with a fashion degree from LJMU, she knew she wanted to expand her existing knowledge and gain new skills with a Masters qualification.
and culture of overseas destinations and showcasing upcoming creative talents. “I am going to produce the first edition of the magazine for my Masters project and then put together a business plan and do the research required to get it off the ground,” she says.
“I had built a strong relationship with my tutors and really appreciated the support they had given me during my undergraduate degree so I knew I wanted to stay at LJMU for my Masters,” explains Rebecca. Following a gap year spent travelling and writing, Rebecca began her part-time Masters in 2017. “I looked at a number of related courses but decided that the Fashion Innovation and Realisation programme was the one for me.”
“Higher level study has really encouraged me to pursue my dream. There is an older lady on my course who has her own business and has come back into education to expand her skills. Seeing what she has done has increased my self-belief. Masters study has shown me that I can cope with a heavy workload by breaking tasks down and working through them methodically. Those are the kind of skills that will get me to where I want to be.”
For years Rebecca had known that she wanted to work in the creative sector but had never been able to identify her actual goal. “Masters study soon made me realise exactly what I wanted to do,” she says. “Being given a GoGlobal award, I was able to fulfil a lifelong dream and travel to China to look at various university fashion projects and research the local culture.”
So what advice does Rebecca have for other undergraduates considering postgraduate study? “I’d say just go for it,” she smiles. “If you don’t, you’ll only regret it and, if you do, you’ll develop as a person and gain lots of new skills. You’ll also be able to define your long-term goal and that’s key to a successful future.”
Rebecca’s journey, alongside her passion for photography, graphic design and journalism, made her realise that she wanted to launch her own publication, featuring the fashion
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TIME FOR A CHANGE For the vast majority of us, choosing a career path at the age of 18 is nigh on impossible, so it comes as no surprise that many students use their Masters to change direction.
THE WIDER PICTURE Camila Zapata graduated with a BA in Journalism with Public Relations in Northridge, California before studying for her Masters in Project Management at LJMU. “After a couple of years working in Public Relations I decided it really wasn’t for me and I moved into the tech industry,” she says. “I found that my event management experience was very well suited to careers in Project Management and so, although I hadn’t studied in the sector, I felt very comfortable working in it.” Last year Camila was working as a Project Manager in London. “Although the industry felt right I realised I had started to stagnate,” she admits. “I needed a Masters to move forward.” Looking at various UK Universities for the right qualification, Camila set her sights on the city of Liverpool. “There is a huge amount of construction going on in the city and, as construction project management is the area I’d eventually like to move into, it seemed like a good choice,” she says. “The programme at LJMU was exactly what I was
looking for and so I applied and was fortunate enough to be accepted.” With an understanding and appreciative employer, Camila has been able to continue to work during her studies. “I’ll admit the step up to Masters was tough,” she says. “I had been out of education for five years so I was worried how I would cope but the tutors here give so much, are always available and offer such great support.” Camila is also learning from her peer group. “We all have very different backgrounds and different perspectives,” she says. “This means that, in group sessions, we learn to see situations through the eyes of others and that is key preparation for working in industry.” So what advice would Camila give to those thinking of changing direction? “Find something you are passionate about and then look at the skills you have developed in your undergraduate degree and how they can relate to what you want to do,” she says. “Your knowledge can translate into so many different areas so always consider your options and the wider picture.”
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SETTING SAIL IN A NEW DIRECTION During two placements associated with his undergraduate degree in International Management and Economics, French student Hugo Kuhn realised he had a passion for the Maritime industry. Wanting to study in the UK, Hugo researched his options and, impressed by the reputation of the University, decided to join LJMU to study for a Masters in Maritime Operations Management. “I guess it was quite a step to base my career plans on two internships,” says Hugo. “I had to go with my feelings though. It was what I was interested in and what I wanted to do. My lack of previous qualifications in the area was a worry but you just have to be prepared to do the background work to fill in any knowledge gaps.” Hugo is really benefitting from the support available at LJMU. “The research module we studied at the beginning of the programme was a real help as it demonstrated how to get the best out of the University library when it comes to research,” he says. “The module also gave us the chance to meet all of our tutors.” Hugo is also impressed by staff contact time. “The online ‘See my tutor’ system is very useful as it is easy to make appointments with staff,” he says. “It is great to know that they are always there if you need them.” The programme’s employment focus is another highlight. “We are all basically studying this course to get into employment and our studies are certainly targeted to that,” he explains. “The links between learning and industry are strong at LJMU and that really prepares you for the workplace.” In terms of advice to others considering postgraduate study, Hugo feels that there are three equally important elements. “You have to choose your location, your institution and your course carefully,” he says. “I am very happy with all three.”
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ALL CHANGE FOR IDIL Proving that a complete change of direction is always possible, Turkish student Idil Tosuncuk is very much enjoying her Digital Marketing Masters having originally graduated in Environmental Engineering from Istanbul Technical University. “I realised during my studies that Engineering wasn’t for me and, as I had always been really interested in Marketing, I decided to make the change,” says Idil. As keen to improve her English skills as she was to change her focus, Idil wanted to study for her Masters in the UK. “I’d only ever travelled to London but I had heard so much about Liverpool that I really wanted to study in the city,” she says. “My real passion was for Digital Marketing and when I discovered that LJMU offered my chosen course in my chosen city I knew it was the one for me.” With no experience of Marketing to show, Idil was offered the chance to take a pre-Masters at the University prior to the start of her course. “It gave me the knowledge I needed to start my Masters with confidence,” she smiles. So has Liverpool lived up to her expectations? “Absolutely!” she says. “I love everything about the city but the best thing has to be the people here - they are so
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kind and friendly. Add to that the fact that you can never get bored in Liverpool as there are so many events all of the time, I know I couldn’t have made a better choice.” In terms of her studies, Idil is enjoying the applied nature of her course. “We get to meet industry experts, listen to them, talk to them and make really valuable contacts,” she smiles. “I am hoping to get some work experience during my course and I am sure the contacts I am making will enable me to do that.” Idil is equally appreciative of LJMU’s academic staff. “They are always so helpful,” she says. “We can pop in to see them, we can email them or even call them. They are always there when you need them and that is very important.” Planning to secure a Digital Marketing role back in Turkey at the end of her studies, Idil is very positive about her future. “UK universities are seen as the best in the world and, with a Masters degree from LJMU, I will be able to work for one of the top international companies,” she says. “The qualification along with my improved English language skills will take me a long way back home. I am very pleased I decided to come to LJMU.”
POSTGRADUATE FINANCE Before you embark on your postgraduate studies you need to think about how you are going to fund the next stage of your education. The great news is that financial support is available for postgraduate study in many guises and our student advice team are on hand to guide you through the options. You can contact our funding specialists at moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 3153/3154 but, in the meantime, here’s a brief outline of the options open to you:
at Gov.uk/doctoral-loan. For information about doctoral loans in Wales, visit studentfinancewales.co.uk
• TEACHER TRAINING Teacher training is funded in the same way that undergraduate courses are funded, via government loans and grants. There are also bursaries depending on your degree classification and the subject you are going to teach. See: gov.uk/teacher-training-funding for more details. Funding applications open at the end of February
• POSTGRADUATE MASTERS LOANS
• NHS COURSES
Students from England, Wales or the EU attending eligible full and part-time masters courses can apply for government loans of up to £10,906 n (England and EU) or £13,000* (Wales). Further information and details of eligibility are available at www.gov.uk/studentfinance and www.studentfinancewales.co.uk/
You can apply for a bursary for some Masters level NHS courses. The funding cycle opens in April for September starters. See the NHS Business Services Authority website nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students for more details
Students who ordinarily live in Northern Ireland can apply for a non means tested loan for their tuition fees. The loan is capped at £5,500* per student and you can find out more at: www.studentfinanceni.co.uk
n
subject to parliamentary approval
* 2018 figures
Students who are normally resident in Scotland and are studying for a course not available in Scotland, can apply for a postgraduate tuition fee loan up to a maximum of £5,500* for full-time courses. Eligible full-time students can also apply for a living cost loan of up to £4,500*. This funding is not means tested. Scottish students who want to study at postgraduate level on a part-time basis can apply for a tuition fee loan of up to £2,750* per year. For more information and repayment details see the saas.gov.uk
DID YOU KNOW?
• POSTGRADUATE INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS LJMU offers a series of scholarships for international applicants on taught Masters programmes and research degrees. These scholarships take the form of fee waivers. For full eligibility criteria and details of how to apply, see the international scholarships section of our website
• GOVERNMENT DOCTORAL LOAN SCHEME A non-means-tested loan of up to £25,700 n is now available to assist with the cost of a postgraduate doctoral qualification. The loan is for eligible students in England, Wales and the European Union.
•
If you are a home/EU graduate with a degree from LJMU, an Alumni discount of 20% off your postgraduate tuition fees is available**
•
Funding is also provided by research councils, charities and trusts
•
The University has a Student Support Fund for those facing unexpected hardship or who have caring responsibilities eg for a partner or children
•
Equipment and support is available for those with an ongoing disability or learning difficulty, email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk
**Subject to terms and conditions
Further information for those based in England can be found
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FIRST CLASS SUPPORT ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are joining LJMU as a new student or have studied here as an undergraduate, you will have access to a wealth of support services. You’ll find details of the main services below but, if you are not quite sure what support you need, call in and see us on campus when you arrive.
As well as the services of our central accommodation team who deal with queries and arrangements pre-arrival, Student Advice and Wellbeing can help you with any issues you may have with University accommodation once you settle in, contact accommodationadvice@ljmu.ac.uk. You can also contact our private sector housing adviser based at Liverpool Student Housing, email: advice2u@liv.ac.uk COUNSELLING AND MENTAL WELLBEING alking therapy appointments are available Monday to Friday T throughout the year and there is also a daily drop-in session, contact: counselling@ljmu.ac.uk DISABILITY SUPPORT I f you have a disability and require extra support during your studies, please inform Student Advice and Wellbeing as soon as possible, email: disability@ljmu.ac.uk FINANCE hether you need information on scholarships, loans W or bursaries or some help budgeting, our Finance Advisers have the answers you need, email: moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SUPPORT For one-to-one and group sessions on topics such as visa applications or cultural issues, contact: internationaladvice@ljmu.ac.uk
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT TEAM This new team is available to help with any issues affecting your studies, whether you have problems relating to your mental wellbeing, practical issues or simply want someone to talk to about the stresses of university life. You can contact them at: studentengagement@ljmu.ac.uk
LJMU’s dedicated international team is here to support overseas students from the moment you decide to study with us. As well as letting you know all about LJMU before you come to Liverpool, the team provides a ‘meet and greet’ service when you arrive in the UK and will help with issues such as setting up a UK bank account and an email address, registering with the police and setting your immigration status to ‘student’. To find out more about what the international team can do for you, email: international@ljmu.ac.uk
STUDY SUPPORT I f you need to develop additional skills to complement your studies, our study support team can help with topics such as academic writing, referencing, maths support and English for academic purposes; for more information email: studysupport@ljmu.ac.uk or see our Academic Support section on the next page.
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ACADEMIC SUPPORT When you begin your studies at LJMU you may find you need help with certain academic topics. Our study skills classes provide valuable support for students at all levels. We offer a wide range of generic training sessions as well as specific support for international and postgraduate students. Details of sessions are sent out weekly via email. Bespoke sessions are also available subject to demand.
LIBRARY SUPPORT LJMU has three libraries: the Aldham Robarts library at the Mount Pleasant Campus, the Avril Robarts library in the City Centre and the IM Marsh library. Providing a hub for all front-line student services, our libraries are the place to: register and enrol, hand in your coursework, pay fees and get guidance on anything related to the student experience.
Liverpool SU represents all LJMU students. Run by elected student officers, LSU prides itself on being an entirely student-led organisation, working solely to improve your University experience. To find out more, visit www.jmsu.co.uk
35 35 MasterPlan
CAREERS EXPERTISE Did you know that over 96%* of LJMU taught postgraduates are in work or further study six months after graduation?
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR SERVICE INCLUDE:
One of the reasons we can boast such great statistics is the excellent careers support available to each and every LJMU student.
• Campus-based Careers Zones which allow you to access careers support closer to where you study – call in to find out about the range of services available to you • One-to-one careers advice and guidance from expert Employability Advisers and Careers Advisers – phone 0151 231 2048/3719 or call into your nearest Careers Zone to make an appointment
CAREERS SUPPORT AND MORE
• Careers Zone 24/7 – a range of online careers tools, including CV and cover letter builder, interview simulator, employer advice videos, psychometric testing practice, assessment centre tool, GoinGlobal database and much more. Access the platform at ljmu.ac.uk/careers/ careers-zone-digital-careers-tools
Whatever your career ambitions, LJMU’s Careers team is on hand to help enhance your employability, add value to your university experience and help you take the necessary steps to achieve your career goals.
• Our online jobs board where you can look for graduate jobs, LJMU-funded internships, placements, voluntary work and more – access the jobs board via Careers Zone 24/7. Opportunities from the site are also featured on physical jobs boards in Careers Zones • School-specific Career Planning Guides (featuring student and graduate case studies and employability articles) and programme-specific Career Insight guides (highlighting career options related to your degree) are available to download from the Careers website – ljmu.ac.uk/careers • Regular employer events and careers fairs as well as careers workshops and webinars (online classes) on CVs, application forms, interviews, psychometric tests etc – https://careers.ljmu.ac.uk/Default.aspx • Mock interviews to perfect your technique and build your confidence – phone 0151 231 2048/3719 to arrange • CareerSmart programme – all postgraduates have the opportunity to engage with the programme which will introduce you to the steps involved in making informed choices about your career. Visit ljmu.ac.uk/careers/careersmart or email CareerSmart@ljmu.ac.uk if you want to take part *HESA 2017
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STRAIGHT TO WORK Career guidance comes in many forms at LJMU, as well as our dedicated Careers team, tutors work closely with students to prepare them for their future careers.
SOPHIE’S PERFECT FIT
Sophie Batchelor has nothing but praise for LJMU. The School of Education graduate believes the University gave her exactly what she needed to secure her current role as an English teacher in the Netherlands. “I studied for my undergraduate degree in Education, Culture and Childhood at the University of Sheffield,” she explains. “I moved to LJMU for my Masters as the Erasmus opportunities were significantly better.” “My time at LJMU was amazing,” smiles Sophie. “I hadn’t had any specialist support at my previous University but staff at LJMU soon diagnosed me with dyslexia and really helped me to come to terms with it. They made me realise I wasn’t the issue, it was the system that was letting me down. They gave me invaluable additional support and I soon started to excel in ways I didn’t know were possible. As soon as my special needs were catered for, my intellect started to shine.” Sophie was very impressed by the tutors on her course. “I really enjoyed the contact time with my lecturers as they were very passionate about our learning and progression,” she recalls. “It was great to see how they invested themselves in our future.” During her studies, Sophie undertook a placement in the Netherlands which led to her current full-time role in the country. “My tutors’ commitment to getting me a placement in the country of my choice was admirable,” she smiles. “I honestly couldn’t thank them enough. Choosing LJMU was the best decision I could have made and, given the choice, I would certainly do it again. I am where I am now because of LJMU and I will be forever grateful.”
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A PLACE TO CALL HOME
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If you are moving to Liverpool to study, you’ll be delighted to hear that all new students are guaranteed a room in University-endorsed accommodation, no matter what your level of study. And what’s more, if you prefer privately owned accommodation, we can help with that too!
UNIVERSITY ENDORSED ACCOMMODATION Opt for University-endorsed accommodation and we’ll give you the option to live with other postgraduate students and/or mature undergraduates. To book your university accommodation: 1. Explore the accommodation options: www.ljmu.ac.uk/ discover/your-student-experience/accommodation 2. On accepting an offer from LJMU, submit your online accommodation request. The sooner you send a request, the more choice you will have 3. Your accommodation manager will contact you by email within 10 days. Follow the instructions provided and make the initial payment to finalise your booking For further help or advice, please call: +44 (0)151 231 4166 or email: accommodation@ljmu.ac.uk
PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION Liverpool Student Homes (LSH) www.liverpoolstudent homes.org/ is the official provider of private accommodation for LJMU, the University of Liverpool and Liverpool Hope University. LSH has the city’s largest choice of student flats, houses and rooms with over 16,000 bed spaces. It offers protection against poor housing conditions and also provides impartial expert housing advice when required. For more information call LSH on 0151 794 3296 or email lsh@liv.ac.uk
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CONTACT DETAILS FACULTIES
SUPPORT SERVICES
Faculty of Arts, Professional and Social Studies: apsadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk
Accommodation:
Faculty of Education, Health and Community:
Finance:
accommodation@ljmu.ac.uk
moneyadvice@ljmu.ac.uk
(education admissions) marshadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk (health admissions) health@ljmu.ac.uk
International enquiries: int-admissions@ljmu.ac.uk
Faculty of Engineering and Technology:
Liverpool Student Homes:
fetadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk
lsh@liv.ac.uk
Faculty of Science:
Student support:
scspgt@ljmu.ac.uk
studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk
Liverpool Business School: busadmissions@ljmu.ac.uk
The Doctoral Academy (contact form): https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/forms/enquiry
Visit ljmu.ac.uk or connect with us on
@LJMU 40