What were you doing prior to the MSc and why did you opt to do this this programme?
Before the MSc, I was working as a research economist at a consultancy firm. I opted to do this programme as part of my work professional development/CPD. Given the impacts of Covid-19 and the use of home-working, I found I had a lot more spare time and wanted to use that to do something productive and counteract the impacts of homeworking early in my career as an economist. As this programme was online and part-time, it suited what I wanted to do very well. It was also very aligned with the nature of my job role.
What are your thoughts on the programme?
I really enjoyed the programme. The lecture aspect of it was different than I expected given it was online so there wasn’t as much of this element, but it led to a lot of self-directed learning which was very beneficial. I enjoyed the course content a lot and enjoyed getting to learn about different topic areas of interest through the elective choices, such as international development and environmental/energy economics. All the lecturers were great and helpful. As our course was small, we were able to engage with each other very easily too.
What are your plans now you have graduated?
Now that I have graduated, I am continuing in my role as an economist in the consultancy firm where I work. I am using the skills and knowledge I have accumulated over the past two years to continue to progress and bring new insights and ideas to my role.
As you did this online, do you have any advice for someone doing the programme this way?
The online nature of the course is great for balancing the course with work commitments. It requires a lot of dedication to commit the time outwith work but the learning that comes with it is worth it. It is also good to engage with the forum posts to stay connected to those on the course and the lecturers and to create a chat with those on the course to share learning.