Chioma Wilson-Dike

Chioma Wilson-Dike

"The programme has provided me with a unique opportunity to learn both the theoretical and practical aspects of project management."

What course are you currently studying?

MSc in Project Management

Why did you choose to study a master’s at the University of Liverpool Management School?

The ULMS is one of the business schools in the world to be accredited by the AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. This gold standard ‘triple-crown’ accreditation reflects the school’s mission to advance influential knowledge leadership through its transformative research and teaching. This made the ULMS stand out to me and my top choice to study in the United Kingdom. The ULMS continues to be top-ranked as an elite business school in the world.

The MSc in Project Management modules are also double accredited by the Association of Project Management and the Project Management Institute. This shows that the programme has been critically appraised by the leading project management bodies.

What’s the best thing about studying your programme?

It is interesting to note that the Project Management Institute recognises all compulsory MSc in Project Management modules. This means that upon completion of these modules, students who wish to become certified project management professionals, may rely on the modules taught at the ULMS, to claim professional development units (PDUs).

The programme has provided me with a unique opportunity to learn both the theoretical and practical aspects of project management. The UNLOCK PM game has advanced my risk management skills and has equipped me to manage project risks better.

The Microsoft Project lab sessions offered in the first semester have equipped me with MS Project skills. I am aware that this skill is highly sought after by employers looking to recruit project managers.

I am particularly fascinated by the flexible approach the ULMS has taken regarding its dissertation policy. Students have a choice of either a dissertation or a business simulation analysis.

How do the facilities in the University and the Management School help you with your studies?

The libraries house an uncountable number of learning resources. The library team are always on standby to assist students to ensure an overall excellent learning experience.

I was pleased to find out that the libraries are open 24 hours throughout the academic session. The library can also be accessed virtually for students who wish to study outside the school campus. The KnowHow sessions offered by the library team runs periodically through the academic year and provides an invaluable opportunity for students to conduct research seamlessly.

All lectures are recorded for students and can be accessed 24/7 on Canvas. This has helped with revisions for exams and assessments. The additional resources will be of immense value to students in their respective careers.

What kind of support do you get from academic staff and tutors?

I have received a tremendous level of support from my professors and the learning and teaching support office (LTSO). I have had my assessment deadlines extended due to ill health and it was heart-warming to receive follow-up support emails from the LTSO assigned to my case. Professors operate an open-door policy and are always eager to assist students with knotty academic issues or questions.

Have you accessed any of the support services available to you, such as the School’s postgraduate careers team? If so, how did you find the service?

I have attended several career fairs, workshops, and webinars organised by the careers team. I particularly appreciated the fact that a concern I raised with the team was promptly addressed with follow-up support.

There is constant support from the team through its 1:1 sessions, CV and cover letter reviews and writing tips, and the CV360 checker. The resources and support are enormous and have been a great help in preparing for and attending job interviews.

What do you enjoy most about the whole experience (thinking about any trips, social and extracurricular activities, or guest speakers) and what value has that added?

I think that the most enjoyable thing about studying here is the people and the activities that bring us together. Every week, there are numerous extracurricular activities organised by the ULMS, the Guild or student societies. These activities range from social to academic activities.

It is amazing that we are given the liberty to engage in activities that contribute to social skills. One notable activity is the guest speaker series where industry leaders are invited to network with and share experiences with students. This networking opportunity has equipped me with communication skills that will be relevant to my career.

How do you believe undertaking master’s study will help your career prospects?

I chose to study my programme because the curriculum comprises a blend of the Project Management Institute and Association of Project Management principles and methodologies. Upon completion of the program, I believe that students would have become equipped with requisite knowledge and skills relevant to the practice of Project Management.

It is interesting to note that the Project Management Institute recognises all compulsory MSc in Project Management modules. This means that upon completion of these modules, students who wish to become certified project management professionals, may rely on the modules taught at the ULMS, to claim professional development units (PDUs).

Elective modules such as Business Enterprise Systems with SAP prove invaluable to students’ career prospects because of the opportunity to sit the SAP exam and obtain a professional qualification.

What advice would you give to anybody considering master’s study?

Please remember that the learning that goes on in the university goes beyond the classroom. Activities like sports, gardening, or field trips, also contribute to learning and a student’s overall experience.

There are endless opportunities that the University of Liverpool offers its students, and it is up to us to create time to engage in and be an active part of these opportunities.

The University is also a great opportunity to meet and form networks that will be instrumental to your career and social network. Endeavour to be intentional about the relationships you form and ensure that it is mutually beneficial in terms of growing and contributing towards each other’s growth.

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