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MBA (Top-up) University of Sunderland

QualificationOn successful completion of this programme you will be awarded the University of Sunderland MBA.

Awarding BodyUniversity of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland is a dynamic, modern university with a growing reputation for teaching quality and leading edge research. Recognised by The Guardian as Englands best new university in 2001, and rated best new university in the UK for the overall quality, range and quantity of its research. The university is committed to pioneering new, flexible learning programmes, allowing students to study at home or at work.

School of Business, Law & Psychology is an international learning community of over 3,000 students and 90 full-time academics offering a comprehensive range of programmes in Business, Law and Psychology from undergraduate, postgraduate, Corporate and Doctoral level.

Course DescriptionThe University of Sunderland MBA is designed as a top-up programme for those who have completed the BTEC Diploma in Management Studies and gained appropriate management experience. During this programme you will develop your modelling techniques, strategic management knowledge, competence and problem-solving ability. You will also become familiar with international management practice, and the development of effective business cultures and performance enhancement.

ModeText-based distance learning. Tutor supported.

Course Content (Modules)Comprises four modules:

1. Global Corporate StrategyThis module seeks to establish the holistic nature of corporate strategy and how this affects organisational decision making processes. By examining aspects of the internal and external environment and associated forces on the organisation, you will develop an appreciation of business and management within a global setting.

2. International Business EnvironmentThis module will explore the different frameworks in which organisational decisions are made. You will identify key forces of globalisation and analyse the impact of economic, social, cultural and political factors on business operations and structures in a variety of national environments. You will also relate theories of internationalisation, innovation and competitive advantage to differing industries and locations.

3. Modelling Techniques for Business and ManagementThis module investigates a variety of management tools and operational research procedures used in business/management decision making in order to broaden your existing decision making knowledge.

4. Applied Research Methods for Business and ManagementThis module explores the nature of business/management research, ethical issues in business

and management research, and deductive and inductive research methods. You will use and compare qualitative and quantitative research methods to enable you to write research projects and report research findings.

DissertationYou will be required to undertake a research investigation into a contemporary management issue utilising primary and secondary investigation, techniques and data sources.

AssessmentThe University of Sunderland MBA Top-Up is assessed by one written assignment after studying modules 1,2 and 4 (three in total), an examination after module 3 and a dissertation. The dissertation will be of 15,000 - 20,000 words in length.

Duration of ProgrammeMinimum 12 months. However, the programme is flexible and can be extended to a maximum of five years.

Entry RequirementsTo gain entry to the University of Sunderland MBA Top-Up you must possess the Edexcel Diploma in Management Studies or a CMI Executive Diploma or equivalent. You must be at least 23 and have at least two years appropriate management experience.

Whats IncludedAll study materials, core textbooks and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a programme co-ordinator for administrative support. You will be invited to an optional induction day (held at RDIs Head Office in Coventry) and you will have access to an online Virtual Campus.

Text-based distance learning

WorkloadWe recommend an average of 12 hours study time per week for this programme.

ExemptionsNo exemptions are allowed for this programme.

Enrolment DatesSeptember, January and May.

How to ApplyIn addition to a completed application form, provide two references, preferably from an academic or current employer, and proof of qualifications.

Apply onlineVisit our website www.rdi-germany.de

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Email usEmail [email protected]

Call usContact us today on 0531 12 9999-6

Giving up employment to study full time was not an option. allowed me to study while earning and proved an extremely

flexible solution. The support I received was superb, any queries I had were resolved quickly and easily, my student support co-ordinator was extremely helpful and professional.

Stephen Weekes. MBA

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QualificationOn successful completion of this programme you will be awarded a BTEC Diploma in Management Studies (DMS).

Awarding BodyEdexcel

Course DescriptionThe BTEC Diploma in Management Studies is intended primarily for those who are working in or aspire to work in management. This course is ideal for those who are practising first-line managers who wish to make a career in management at this level. It focuses on underpinning knowledge and practical skills and will provide you with the opportunity to preserve and build on existing good practice.

The BTEC DMS can be studied as a stand-alone programme or as the first year of the University of Sunderland MBA programme.

ModeText-based distance learning

Course Content (Modules)Comprises six modules:

Year 1 BTEC Diploma in Management Studies

Comprises Six Units:

Unit 1 Strategic Management Nature, scope and purpose Process Key factors Strategy options Implementation and control

Unit 2 Managing Operations Requirements of customers Design of processes and systems Control the implementation Monitor and evaluate

Unit 3 Managing Finance Cost concepts Methods Budgetary process Financial statements

Unit 4 Human Resource Management Contribution of human resource

management Structure and culture Factors Performance

Unit 5 Marketing Management Planning principles and processes Tools and techniques Marketing strategy options Strategic marketing plan

Unit 6 Management Report Management research Strategies Select and utilise Synthesise and analyse Present

AssessmentThe BTEC Diploma in Management Studies is assessed by one written assignment of not less than 5,000 after studying modules 1, 2 and 5 (three in total), an examination after modules 3 and 4 (two in total) and a report of not less than 10,000 words.

Duration of ProgrammeMinimum 12 months for the BTEC Diploma in Management Studies. However, the programme is flexible and can be extended to a maximum of five years.

Entry RequirementsTo gain entry to the BTEC Diploma in Management Studies you should possess an Edexcel BTEC Certificate in Management, a first Degree, or another appropriate professional qualification. Or experience of working in a management position.

Whats IncludedAll study materials, core textbooks and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a personal tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a programme co-ordinator for administrative support. You will be invited to an optional induction day (held at RDIs Head Office in Coventry) and you will have access to an online Virtual Campus.


ExemptionsFor this qualification we may allow you to count credit for relevant study you have already done elsewhere. Exemptions are considered on an individual basis when you submit an application form. Please note that we cannot consider work experience alone for exemptions.

Enrolment DatesOctober, January, April and July


What You Could Study NextSuccessful completion of the programme may allow you entry to:University of Sunderland MBAUniversity of Bradford MBAUniversity of Wales MBA


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Allowing a student to work at a different pace where they may have knowledge gaps has certainly been of significant benefit to me. I have been able to adapt my learning and continuous professional development requirements to suit a busy working and family schedule. The overall time frame for achievement is flexible and adaptable and meets the needs of mature students.

Richard Luck. Diploma in Management Studies (DMS)

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BTEC Diploma in Management Studies (DMS) Edexcel Text-based distance learning


management of human resource vary within an organisation and across situations.

Compare and contrast the concepts of management and leadership.

Demonstrate how to lead and develop effective teams.

Analyse a human resource problem and apply appropriate models to develop solutions.

6. Managing Change in OrganisationsThis module will provide you with an understanding of the nature of organisational change; the role of a manager in dealing with that change; and skills which will allow them to contribute positively to the change process. After completing this module you will be able to: Critically evaluate and define the nature of

the change process. Apply a range of appropriate conceptual

tools applicable to the management of change situations.

Critically review how organisations have responded to change.

Synthesise and analyse the links between knowledge management, knowledge tracking and knowledge migration in organisational/change management.

Design strategies to deal with resistance to change.

7. Strategic ManagementThis module will introduce you to the strategy process in a range of organisational contexts. After completing this module you will be able to: Critically analyse a range of strategic

decision-making models. Undertake a strategic analysis of an

organisation. Apply a range of strategic choice frameworks

to generate and evaluate an organisations strategic options.

Demonstrate the need to reflect cultural, structural and behavioural issues in the strategic process.

Develop end justify plans for the implementation of agreed strategies.

8. Research MethodsThis module will provide you with a conceptual framework from which research philosophies, strategies and methods associated with business management can be critically reviewed. You will develop research competencies, in particular those relating to data collection and analysis, that will enable you to design, undertake and evaluate independent research in an organisational setting. After completing this module you will be able to: Critically appraise research undertaken by

others. Propose and justify a report for a research

project in business management that will stand up to critical scrutiny.

Critically appraise the contribution primary and secondary data sources can make to research studies, particularly with respect to sampling, statistical analysis and data presentation techniques.

Synthesize research findings to improve the quality of decisions in management.

AssessmentThe personal skills development module requires you to develop a portfolio. In addition, you will complete two timed assessments, which you will complete within 24 hours, similar to an examination, four assignments of not less than 4,000 words each, and a 20,000-word dissertation.

Duration of ProgrammeThe University of Wales MBA is normally studied over a 24-month period, but this may be extended to suit your individual needs for up to a maximum of four years.

Entry Requirements First degree from an approved university

equivalent to UK second class honours, or an acceptable professional qualification.

At least two years relevant full-time work experience.

English ability equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0, where the medium of undergraduate study was not English.

Minimum of 23 years of age. Candidates without a first degree will be

eligible for entry if they can demonstrate a minimum of five years managerial experience.

Whats IncludedAll online study materials and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a student support co-ordinator for administrative support. You will also complete an online induction and have access to an online Virtual Campus.

WorkloadWe recommend an average of 12-15 hours study time per week for this programme.

ExemptionsFor this qualification, we may allow you to count credit for relevant study you have already done elsewhere. For example, holders of the BTEC DMS will be eligible for advanced standing. For other equivalent qualifications exemptions are considered on an individual basis when you submit an application form. Please note that we cannot consider work experience alone for exemptions.



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MBA* University of Wales

QualificationOn successful completion of the programme you will be awarded a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Awarding BodyUniversity of Wales

The University of Wales, which was founded by Royal Charter in 1893, is a large and distinctive federal university comprising nine member institutions, whose activities it exists to support and which are closely involved in its governance.

The university is the degree-awarding authority for its member institutions and also for around 70 other higher education institutions both within the UK and overseas, with which it also enjoys close links. Annually, it awards almost 15,000 initial degrees and more than 4,000 higher degrees, making it the second largest degree-awarding body in the UK. Almost the full range of subjects is covered in its diverse range of institutions. Together, the member institutions of the University of Wales and its validated schemes of study result in a thriving population of nearly 90,000 from all over the world.

This scheme is validated and awarded by the federal University of Wales. For further details regarding the University and its validation services, please log on to www.wales.ac.uk/validation or email [email protected]

Course DescriptionThe University of Wales MBA programme is designed to equip you with essential modern management skills and knowledge and prepare you with an enterprising spirit grounded on solid business practices. The programme also aims to provide you with analytical and decision making capabilities in order to face different kinds of new challenges resulting from the rapid changes seen in todays growing business environment. You will study tools and techniques that will help you develop and manage products and services that will be competitive internationally.

ModeOnline distance learning

Course Content (Modules)Comprises an induction and eight modules:

1. Personal Skills DevelopmentIn this module you will develop the common skills needed to succeed on the programme. It will provide you with the opportunity to develop, apply and assess your skills using appropriate methods. You will develop a personal portfolio of evidence which demonstrates development in the common skills. You will establish a foundation for personal development and be able to apply your learning to a future workplace.

2. Financial ManagementThis module will provide you with the tools to enable you to interpret and evaluate financial information and utilise financial information for decision-making purposes. After completing this module you will be able to: Draft financial statements. Critically analyse information contained in

published financial statements. Select and apply financial decision-making

techniques to appraise projects. Evaluate complex investment decisions. Utilise spreadsheets to present and analyse

financial information. Appreciate differences between financial

decision-making in the public and not for profit sectors as compared to the private sector.

Apply appropriate techniques to protect against currency loss.

3. Marketing ManagementYou will investigate the role and function of marketing within the context of changing markets and increasing international competition. After completing this module you will be able to: Critically evaluate the information needs

of the marketing function in terms of its contribution to the strategic processes and

tactical decision-making. Integrate marketing decision-making with

organisational strategy. Establish a broad base of marketing

knowledge and the strategic implications. Develop and implement marketing plans for a

product or service. Reflect an international perspective and

the global context of decision-making in marketing planning.

Evaluate the appropriateness of e-business strategies.

4. Operations ManagementThis module will investigate the context and processes of management operations and show how operations management is central to the achievement of organisational aims. After completing this module you will be able to: Evaluate problems in operations and identify

approaches to overcoming them. Critically evaluate operating plans and

identify areas for improvement. Justify, implement and evaluate changes to

operations in line with modern approaches. Develop outline plans for investment in new

capacity, including location and layout. Evaluate operation processes so that

customer requirements including quality, delivery and reliability are achieved.

Differentiate and devise suitable control systems.

Apply principles of project management.

5. Managing the Human ResourceThis module will help you to develop critical awareness of the contribution the human resource can make to workplace effectiveness. It will develop your ability to apply theoretical human resource models and concepts to a wide variety of work situations. This module is also designed to stimulate your thought on how organisation design can impact on the effectiveness of people. After completing this module you will be able to: Critically appraise the contribution people

can make to an organisation. Analyse how factors concerning the

On-line distance learning


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*subject to final approval


Business Pathway

BA (Hons) Business Management(Final Year Top-up) University of Sunderland

QualificationOn successful completion of this programme you will be awarded the University of Sunderland BA (Hons) Business Management.

Awarding BodyUniversity of Sunderland

Course DescriptionThe BA (Hons) Business Management will provide you with the necessary expertise to critically evaluate business models and concepts and apply them to real-world situations. Upon completion of this course you will be able to apply your skills to a wide-range of organisations, both commercial and not-for-profit.

The University of Sunderland BA (Hons) Business Management (Final Year Top-up) can be studied as a stand-alone programme for those who already have an HND in Business, or can form part of a three-year degree programme when combined with the Edecxel HND Business Management.

ModeText-based distance learning. Tutor supported.

Course Content (Modules)Comprises six modules:

1 - Managing ProjectsThis module will enable you to understand the processes of project planning, financing and implementation using a variety of techniques covering:

Effective project definitionActivity and time planningCost and quality evaluations Risk managementManagement and leadership of project teamsThis module will introduce a good mix of operational skills and analysis of major strategic projects from around the world. This is an integrative module drawing down from a range of business functions and skills typical of the way businesses are increasingly being managed today.

2 - Marketing StrategyThis module will enable you to appreciate how marketing strategies can contribute to the success of the business. You will consider the mechanics of marketing strategy i.e. the models and concepts that are used in developing and implementing valid strategies. In exploring how marketing strategies are developed you will engage with contemporary marketing themes and issues such as relationship marketing, branding and e-marketing.

3 - Strategic Management of Human ResourcesThis module will consider the redefinition of personnel departments role in achieving strategic change through benchmarking, auditing and outsourcing. You will also review the key policy variables that make up a human resources strategy including: performance management, human resource development,

employee relations, strategic recruitment and retention. This module will provide you with an introduction to important concepts of organisational development and learning.

4 - Financial ManagementExplore aspects of internal resource management while examining the broader financial context in which companies operate. Budgetary control, working capital management and investment appraisal will also be investigated. Your emphasis of this module will be on the analysis and interpretation of financial data to aid management decision-making rather than technical preparation of data.

5 - Contemporary Developments in Business and ManagementYou will explore some of the key issues of enterprise including: innovation, effective corporate governance and social responsibility. You will then review the effective management of knowledge and intellectual capital of the organisation. This module also examines the contribution that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) make to the economy in terms of innovation and knowledge creation.

6 - Strategic ManagementDevelop your skills by creating strategic plans and communicating those plans to stakeholders. You will take an international case-based approach to tracking businesses through the cycle of growth from start-up to mature market. You will also investigate the link between core strategic competence and competitiveness and review emergent issues of corporate governance and change.

Text -based distance learning

Stand alone course or combine with the Edexcel HND Business & Management to form 3 year degree

Assessment The University of Sunderland BA Top-Up is assessed by one written assignment after studying modules 1, 3, 4 and 5, and an examination after modules 2 and 6.

Duration of ProgrammeMinimum 12 months for the University of Sunderland BA Top-Up. However, this programme is flexible and can be extended to a maximum of five years.

Entry RequirementsA HND in a relevant subject. The BTEC HND Business & Management allows direct entry to this programme.

Whats IncludedAll study materials, core textbooks and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a programme co-ordinator for administrative support. You will be invited to an optional induction day (held at RDIs Head Office in Coventry) and you will have access to an online Virtual Campus.


ExemptionsNo exemptions are allowed for this programme.


How to ApplyIn addition to a completed application form, provide one reference, preferably from an academic or current employer, and proof of qualifications.

What You Could Study NextSuccessful completion of the programme may allow you entry to:University of Bradford MBAUniversity of Sunderland MBAUniversity of Wales MBABTEC Diploma in Management Studies (DMS)

I find my learning experience through to be extremely flexible. It simply fuses in with my way of life, and does not interrupt my crazy days that mainly start at about 4:20am. Its simply the answer for people that never want to give up their way of life for a few months studying. It gives you a bit of both really, Ive come to call it the best of both worlds.

Wila Simpungwe, BA (Hons) Business Management


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BA (Hons) Business (Final Year Top-up)* University of Wales

QualificationOn successful completion of the programme you will be awarded a BA (Hons) Business

Awarding BodyUniversity of Wales

Course DescriptionThe University of Wales BA (Hons) Business is designed as a top-up for holders of the BTEC HND Business & Management, or equivalent, to progress to full undergraduate honours. This programme will develop your knowledge and skills gained at HND level. You will undertake a rigorous study of theories, business techniques and issues and acquire the practical skills that are essential within the changing business environment to enable you to pursue a business career or further academic study.

ModeOnline distance learning

Course Content (Modules)Comprises an induction and six modules:

1. Project ManagementThis module will enable you to understand the processes of project planning, financing and implementation using a variety of techniques covering: Effective project definition Activity and time planning Cost and quality evaluations Risk management Management and leadership of project teams

This module will introduce a good mix of operational skills and analysis of major strategic projects from around the world. This is an integrative module drawing down from a range of business functions and skills typical of the way businesses are increasingly being managed today.

2. Marketing StrategyThis module will enable you to appreciate how marketing strategies can contribute to the success of the business. You will consider the mechanics of marketing strategy i.e. the models and concepts that are used in developing and implementing valid strategies. In exploring how marketing strategies are developed you will engage with contemporary marketing themes and issues such as relationship marketing, branding and e-marketing.

3. Managing Self and OthersThis module will reinforce your study skills and give you an opportunity to reflect on your own wider skill set and future needs. It will then develop your understanding of working with and managing people. This will include reviewing the key policy variables that make up a human resources strategy including: performance management, human resource development, employee relations, strategic recruitment and retention.

4. Financial Decision MakingThis module will explore aspects of internal resource management while examining the broader financial context in which companies operate. Budgetary control, working capital management and investment appraisal will also be investigated. The emphasis of his module will be on the analysis and interpretation of financial data to aid decision-making rather than technical preparation of data.

5. Emerging Business ThemesIn this module you will explore some of the current trends in business and management. These will include globalisation, sustainability, corporate governance, and the not for profit sector.

6. Strategic ManagementThis module will help you develop the skills needed to create business plans in line with corporate strategic plans and communicate them to stakeholders. An international case-based approach to tracking businesses through the cycle of growth from start-up to mature market will be taken.

AssessmentYou will complete one 24-hour assessment, which you will complete within a very short timescale similar to that undertaken in an examination and four assignments of not less than 4,000 words each. You will also complete a Learning Diary, which will require you to collect evidence and log events in your life that relate to the attainment of the learning outcomes of the module. This will be completed as part of the induction at the beginning of the programme but the assessment will be handed in towards the end of the programme.

Duration of ProgrammeThis programme can be studied over a minimum of 12 months, this may be extended to suit your individual needs for up to a maximum of three years.

Entry Requirements HND in Business or equivalent. English ability equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0.

Whats IncludedAll online study materials and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a student support co-ordinator for administrative support. You will also complete an online induction and have access to an online Virtual Campus.


ExemptionsFor this qualification, we may allow you to count credit for relevant study you have already done elsewhere. Exemptions are considered on an individual basis when you submit an application form. Please note that we cannot consider work experience alone for exemptions.



What You Could Study NextSuccessful completion of the programme may allow you entry to:

University of Bradford MBAUniversity of Sunderland MBAUniversity of Wales MBABTEC Diploma in Management Studies (DMS)

My biggest regret was leaving school and not going to university. At 25 with financial commitments it would have been impossible for me to attend full time study and not receive the income I receive currently. provided a solution that will enable me to obtain a nationally recognised qualification whilst still bringing in my income to satisfy my financial commitments. The course literature is simple and easy to understand, along with the support and access to my course tutor, has made it a win win situation for me.

Andy Cain, HNC Computing (Business IT)

On-line distance learning

*subject to final approval


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BTEC HNC Business / HND Business & Management Edexcel

QualificationOn successful completion of 10 units you will be awarded a HNC Business. However, if you go on to complete all 16 units successfully you will be awarded a HND Business & Management

Awarding BodyEdexcel

Course DescriptionThe HNC/D in Business & Management is designed for those who wish to develop their professional expertise and skills across a range of essential business and management areas.

The HNC/D in Business & Management can be studied as stand-alone programmes or can form part of a three-year degree programme: University of Sunderland BA (Hons) Business Management, or University of Wales BA (Hons) Business

ModeOnline distance learning*

Course Content (Modules)Comprises ten units for the HNC and a further six units for the HND:

HNC (total 10 units): Organisations and Behaviour Approaches to management practices,

structure and culture Organisations, Competition and

Environment External market factors and national/

international dimensions Marketing Marketing process, mix and targeted

marketing Managing Financial Resources Financial decision making and business

performance Legal and Regulatory Framework Consumer and employment legislation Quantitative Techniques for Business Statistical techniques for decision making Management Information Systems IT applications as a business management

tool Business Strategy Planning, formulation and implementation

Management Accounting Costs, budgets and cash flow forecasting Managing Activities Planning, managing and improving business

activities

HND (HNC plus 6 units): Managing Self Skills audit and personal development plan Managing People Teams and individuals, performance

evaluation and disciplinary procedures Managing Information Source, analyse and store business

information Marketing Planning Auditing, planning and ethical issues Human Resources Management Personnel management, procedures

and practices Quality Management Systems, procedures and barriers to

achieving quality

Assessment The BTEC HND in Business & Management is assessed by 12 written assignments in total (of 2,500 - 3,000 words each) and four examinations.

Duration of ProgrammeMinimum 15 months for the BTEC HNC in Business and a further 9 months for the HND. 24 months in total to HND. However, this programme is flexible and can be extended to a maximum of five years.

Entry RequirementsThere are no formal entry requirements, however candidates should be at a certain academic level such as an A Level or GNVQ, or have at least two years full-time work experience.

Whats IncludedAll study materials, core textbooks and student handbooks are supplied. You will be allocated a personal tutor for academic support who you can contact as often as you like by telephone and email. You will also have access to a programme co-ordinator for administrative support. You will be invited to an optional induction day (held at RDIs Head Office in Coventry) and you will have access to an online Virtual Campus.

* This course will be online from October 2007.

WorkloadWe recommend 8-10 hours study time per week for the HNC/D Business & Management.

Text -based distance learning

Stand alone course or part of 3 year degree

ExemptionsFor this qualification we may allow you to count credit for relevant HNC/D modules you have already done elsewhere. Exemptions are considered on an individual basis when you submit an application form.


How to ApplyIn addition to a completed application form, provide one reference, preferably from an academic or current employer, and proof of qualifications.

What You Could Study NextSuccessful completion of the programme may allow you entry to:

University of Sunderland BA (Hons) Business ManagementUniversity of Wales BA (Hons) Business

Usually at my age you leave college then spend 3 years at university with no money and having to pay a large sum for your education, which immediately puts you in debt when you have finished. I enjoy my job which is full time as a HR assistant and receptionist, I can earn a full time salary alongside gaining a university level qualification in the same time as if I were to be studying full time. I can manage my job and my studying therefore gaining the best of both worlds. I have found this invaluable as when I have finished my course I will have a HND (hopefully to be carried on with to get a degree) and valuable work experience.

Faith Hunter, HND Business & Management


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