News Release
E-Learning Opens International Doors
5th December 2005
An innovative business programme at the University of Ulster’s School of International Business is pulling in students from far and near. The first intake in September for the Postgraduate Diploma and Masters of Science in International Business by E-Learning included students from Canada, Ghana, Japan, Lebanon, Netherlands, Norway as well across the UK.
The appeal of the new web based programme is its flexibility, says Programme Director Helen Shiels. “E-learning allows people to reach their full academic potential in an innovative and creative way, without having to sacrifice their careers or put their family life on hold. The programme is available to anyone, anyplace, anywhere.
“Thanks to the latest technology, innovative and vibrant learning techniques are available at the students’ fingertips - at home, in the office or even when they are on the move. Education comes to the student, taking away the need for them to travel to attend lectures and seminars or to meet with their tutors.”
She continues: “The PgDip/MSc in International Business by e-learning gives students an opportunity to learn about international business at their own pace, but in a very structured and supported way. Students can undertake either one or two 12-week modules per semester, depending on their schedules, with the opportunity to complete the full programme within two calendar years. Additionally, a ‘blended option’ is available, which allows students to study some modules in the traditional classroom environment at the University’s Magee campus.”
UU’s School of International Business already has a successful track record in delivering programmes in International Business and this latest offering will help underpin this success. What sets this programme apart from other distance learning programmes is the level of interaction that students will have with both their tutors and other students on the programme.
“People enrolled on the programme come from very different backgrounds and have a great variety of experiences and knowledge which they can share with the other students.
“The benefits of this programme are threefold,” says Helen Shiels. “Firstly, e-learning gives students the freedom and flexibility to study when and where suits them best and students maintain communication with tutors and other students no matter where they are based.
“Secondly new technology has opened up exciting global markets for local businesses around the world. However, to reap the full benefits of this, staff must be educated and trained on how to survive and thrive in an international arena. Participants on the programme will have an opportunity to study, interact and exchange ideas and experiences with other postgraduate students around the world, which in turn will offer a valuable insight and understanding of the political, economic and cultural differences between different trading blocs.
Finally and by no means the least, she adds, by offering progressive employees and entrepreneurs an opportunity to develop their business skills and experience in the international marketplace, the programme could lead to career progression.
For further information, please contact:
David Young
Telephone: 028 90366074
Email: David Young
