Postgraduate Study
Student Viewpoints
Environmental Management Viewpoint
Jo Duncan
Returning to full-time education has been a demanding, but hugely rewarding experience.
Jo Duncan
MSc Environmental Management
'Having worked in the same profession for about 17 years I decided that I would like a change of career direction, albeit in a subject related to my previous work.
I chose the MSc in Environmental Management at Stirling University because it is a well respected and recognised course in its field. It is also close to where I live so I could balance a return to study with family life. I had apprehensions about attempting a science-based course, having had an arts bias for many years, but the change has been stimulating and has made me realise how much and how quickly the global environment is changing.
Coming to the beautiful Stirling campus can’t help but inspire students. I particularly enjoyed the lectures, given by both academics based at the University and visiting speakers from various environmental agencies – it is fantastic to listen to people with so much enthusiasm and expertise in their chosen subject. A highlight of the course was the field trip to Doñana National Park in southern Spain, a wetland of international importance for its bird life. This gave me an opportunity to get to know my fellow students, who varied greatly in age and background, because being a mum has meant that I haven’t always been able to join in as many social activities as my colleagues.
All in all, returning to full-time education has been a demanding, but hugely rewarding experience. I must also thank my family for their support and encouragement over the past months.'
