Managing Health & Wellbeing (Dumfries campus)

Sandra Harkness (Service Manager, Trading Standards, Dumfries & Galloway Council)

What were your motivations for choosing the MLitt Managing Health & Wellbeing?

I wanted a management qualification that would build upon my existing qualifications and that could fit around my work and family life. I assumed this would mean a correspondence course and was therefore delighted when the University of Glasgow introduced this course at my local campus.

How has the MLitt helped you progress your career?

The MLitt provided me with the skills and confidence I needed to progress to the next stage on my career ladder. Only a few weeks after receiving my final grade I was promoted to a management position!

What were your favourite projects, research or classes during the course?

I enjoyed the teamwork involved during the Problem Based Learning and found working on my dissertation particularly rewarding as I was able to put my learning into practice.

What were the main skills you gained as a result of the course?

My writing skills have improved a lot - I used to be daunted at the prospect of writing a report, now I just get on with it! I have learned to critically analyse a situation as a matter of course and I have also learned to think in terms of whole systems rather than discrete problems. Learning about different management styles allowed me to see how my own approach could be optimised in order to be a better leader. 

What would you say about juggling your studies with work and other commitments?

I completed the course part-time whilst also working part-time. Being able to access web-based publications and the University Library from home allowed me to study at times that suited me. Monday afternoon and evening lectures could easily be fitted in around work and email and forum communication with fellow students and lecturers meant that I always felt fully supported.

What were your favourite aspects of studying in Dumfries?

The Dumfries Campus is easily accessible and is in a beautiful setting. The shared facilities are more than adequate and the lecturers are friendly and approachable. Small classes allowed me to get to know the other students.

Is there anything else that you would say to students considering this programme?

I would recommend this programme to anyone who is looking for a challenge and wants to improve their leadership skills. The course requires hard work and effort but was very rewarding.