Kingston University

My previous degree was a BA based on film and radio. After this I found myself moving towards and consciously being drawn to image making and illustration.
I'd been looking to do a Masters in Communication Design for a while because I felt that there was so much more that I needed to learn.

Choosing Kingston was definitely the best choice that I could have made. Being pushed and motivated into experimenting with techniques and materials has helped me to find new ways of working, but also it has helped me to think in ways. The support, advice and motivation that the tutors provided was amazing and really made the degree a great experience. Over the year I've noticed my confidence increase but also identified my potential weaknesses and how to work on them.

The course has been challenging and intense at times, but that has made it all the more worth while and I feel I have learnt so much in my time at Kingston.

"I gained a huge amount from the course and learnt a great deal. I was very impressed with the level of tuition, and the guidance given. All in all I had a fantastic year, and would not hesitate to recommend Kingston."

As an international student, I felt welcomed into the programme even before I landed in London. I personally found communication with course directors straightforward and helpful throughout my journey of receiving my postgraduate from Kingston University. The course itself was a good balance of theory and practice whilst encouraging independent studies. As a student who was also working part time, I was given the space to pursue a dissertation inspired by my employer, which ultimately led me to a permanent position after receiving my degree. Understanding methodologies such as design thinking during my time at Kingston has helped me throughout my career as a product manager. By having a comprehensive knowledge of user experience of both research and design, I am able to lead and collaborate effectively with designers and researchers in my organisation and have no trouble leading my own usability testing sessions! Pursuing this program had also inspired me to become a member of UXPA-UK and eventually led me into a leadership role on the board of the organisation.

The masterclasses are an excellent way to learn about different job roles in the publishing industry. The speakers work in all areas of publishing so it's very insightful to hear different perspectives on the business. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and get first-hand answers from professionals. It can be a great way to network too - I ended up securing a work placement at Weidenfeld & Nicolson by talking to publishing director, Alan Samson, before he gave a masterclass.

"Studying Communication Design: Graphic Design MA at Kingston was,without any doubt, the best decision of my life so far. Not only as a graphic designer but as a person as well.

I met creative people who I still keep in touch with and are now great friends of mine; tutors whose encouragement and knowledge I cannot be grateful enough for; and the chance to studying in a cool, relaxed and inspiring space where I could research and do anything that I (literally) wished for.

If you get up with the wild idea of making an alphabet out of 2m long wooden letters, or to research and screen print rainbows for a month – and you can also explain why you want to do it – you will not just have a proper technical and theoretical background to support you, but also people who will encourage you to start doing it and will go with you on that road.

I came from a very practical BA so I really enjoyed looking at graphic design from a completely different point of view where the research process is just as important as the final outcome. I discovered the importance of meaning behind designing, and the interdisciplinary group projects have taught me many new things as well. The course gave me confidence and has opened doors to the creative industries."

The International Business Management MSc course offered by Kingston Business School met all my expectations. The content of this masters programme is an interesting mix and has taught me a lot about business, communication, management and finance terms. During my second semester, I chose the consultancy practice module; it consisted in working for a company and helping it to improve a business area (in this case marketing and communications). This module was for me the opportunity to be introduced to the business market and has transformed my knowledge into action and my competency in a real situation.

This course at Kingston Uni has by far been the best I have ever attended! The very competent and knowledgeable tutors, the facilities and the great location close to all of London's museums, exhibition and education spaces.

Kingston MA film making is very practical. I learned so much about cinematography, lighting, directing and so on. It gave us film knowledge and opportunities to make film sand develop our own style.I have to say Kingston provided us with very high-level film equipment. I really like film writing module. It gave us a long time to write and rewrite our screenplay. A good script cannot be good without rewriting and rethinking.

The MA experience at Kingston University has been precious particularly for the chance of meeting and working with people from different design backgrounds and skillsets. I found the emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork to gain a positive result useful training as I prepare for the job market.

"I'd had a positive experience on my undergraduate course at Kingston (Civil Engineering) so Kingston University was an obvious choice when I wanted to enhance my career prospects by taking a RICS-accredited course. I now work for TfL, a job that Kingston helped me get."

"During my first degree I decided that teaching might be an option for me and, after working with young offenders for a year, I decided to apply to Kingston University. It seemed a perfect place for me to complete my PGCE due to its location and also for being so welcoming on the open day.

"The School of Education has been particularly supportive in finding placements close to my home and luckily in great schools, which has heightened my desire to teach.

"Although the PGCE has been one of the hardest years of my life, it has also been one of the most satisfying. Leaving my first placement class knowing that I'd actually taught them something was a great feeling and showed me that coming to Kingston to do a PGCE was a fantastic decision."

"Having worked as a technical analyst for some time, I wanted a change in direction with a view to gaining a position as an IT architect. I didn't have any formal IT qualifications, so I chose to do the MSc in Information Systems at Kingston University on a part-time basis over three years.

"I was nervous to begin with, as I didn't have a first degree, but quickly overcame this because the staff and students were so helpful and friendly and the course was very well structured.

"I based my dissertation on a project I was doing at work, which involved the installation of a computer-based fax system that captures all inbound faxes arriving at customer service centres, and delivers these into a document repository / image and workflow system."

"I graduated in January 2006 with a distinction and subsequently applied for a consultancy role at the Royal Bank of Scotland. I obtained the position of infrastructure consultant and was promoted to a managerial grade. I believe the MSc helped me to get an interview, as the other five candidates had completed, or were in the process of completing, masters degrees.

"In addition to the academic qualification, I found that my levels of confidence rose substantially. This aspect of the MSc proved to be as important as the academic side of the degree."

"Deciding to study my MSc at Kingston was probably one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. After three years' study at Kingston for my Software Engineering BSc degree, I was very much aware of Kingston's reputation – for quality of teaching, the content of the course and the good relationship between students and staff to mention but a few.

"I found the structure of the course very good. Focusing on each module for a whole week was good as it made it easier for me to plan my personal study time table. Even though I was studying a Software Engineering MSc, the flexibility of the course made it possible for me to choose modules from other disciplines. This was great as it allowed me to expand my knowledge into other areas.

"As a full-time course, I expected it to be very tough, and indeed it was, but the friendliness and willingness of lecturers and staff made it an enjoyable year."

"As a Sino-British Scholarship holder, I have found the Curating Contemporary Design MA a wonderful experience. I am enjoying working in a team; learning more about art and culture administration; visiting the splendid museums, galleries, art and cultural institutions in London; and developing future cooperation opportunities between the UK and China.

"I am very grateful for the Sino-British Scholarship, which has given me an amazing opportunity to acquire new ideas, improve my professional practice, enhance my curating skills and develop the career that I have always wanted.

"There is an unprecedented enthusiasm in both China and the UK at the moment to develop contemporary culture and reinforce collaborations with the rest of the world. Everyone who has experienced the history and culture of these two great countries would feel a responsibility to enhance it. With the platform established by the Sino-British Trust, I believe that communication between our cultures will be strengthened."

"Since starting this course I have been finding it very easy to get inspired, especially whenever I watch a film and see what I could do with the skills I am learning. In particular I have recently been reading a lot of magazines, books and online tutorials on CGI which show you tools to support your creative ideas.

"Most of all I speak to my colleagues on my course, and my course tutors who happily share knowledge with each other and discuss ideas and tools which really get the creative juices flowing. This is always very evident after we have worked together on group work and you see how energised everyone is sharing ideas and collaborating to produce a single piece of work that has the best of all our ideas put together."

"I enjoyed the variety of projects and the opportunities and experiences that were presented to us by working on 'real' sites with 'real' issues, and communicating with 'real' people who had an interest in the future of the site.

Opportunities to get outside and visit Paris, Amsterdam and numerous sites around the UK were invaluable learning experiences as well as memorable fun times. I champion the Kingston course and in particular the tutors whose encouragement and enthusiasm all helped shape me as the landscape architect I am today."

John has emerged as one of the most important and creative fashion designers in the world. After completing his studies at Kingston, he created a collection under his own name and became a leading exponent of the British avant-garde. His talent lies in fusing innovative style with master tailoring and his collections have achieved global distribution. His edgy designs are often inspired by rock 'n' roll, and have gained him a cult following.

"You were expected to work unbelievably hard, which I enjoyed. The competition was fierce; the tutors were passionate, tough and encouraging. The friends I made and the special moments we had, I'll never forget. I loved every minute – so many good parties!"

"The first thing you should know about this course is that you will not be handed your MA on a silver platter, and that's the best part. You learn to widen your skill set and get different perspectives from a very lovely, international community. You will get to know some amazing and inspiring tutors who will always help you find the right questions to ask, and you will also learn from a variety of guest lecturers.

If I could do it again I would, because I have never felt as challenged yet so free as I felt during my time at Kingston."

"For me being a student at Kingston University was one of the best experiences that i have had so far in my academic studies. The course provided me the fundamental knowledge in understanding storytelling in film making and how important the collaboration between students and also other people who are willing to create compelling stories through film making are.

What i really liked about the course was the help and support that we had throughout the year from our teachers, the atmosphere and enthusiasm for the success of your students. With that being said one of the best experiences was how we created amazingly strong relationships with other students that are from all over the world. Having that bond with other students helped me learn more in depth whether it was by asking for help but also giving my support and knowledge where it was needed or when it was asked and that made the entire experience unforgettable."

"I applied for Kingston University as a mature student, having worked in IT for 16 years, and with two small children. It was therefore encouraging to find that when I started the course I was not alone, and there was a large range of both age and previous healthcare experience amongst my fellow students. Although I have found the course challenging, both academically and in clinical practice, I have found my experiences enjoyable, varied and rewarding, especially delivering my first baby!

"Students are well supported here, both before starting the course and during the course. Learning resources, such as libraries, journals and internet facilities are available to students both at the university sites and in the clinical areas. You are supported on an academic and personal level by a named tutor and all lecturers are easily contactable to provide guidance on assignments, as needed."

After studying in the midlands for my undergraduate, I wanted to streamline my degree and study in a location I aspired to work in. London’s multitude of museum and galleries, in addition to Kingston’s dedication to networking and volunteering opportunities, was especially enticing for a MA degree. Kingston’s Museum and Gallery Studies degree differs from most other institutions due to their dedication to practical, creative projects and final assessments. The degree provides not just academic theory, but up-to-date industry standards for running or working in a museum. Additionally, volunteering opportunities as well as case studies for museum and gallery institutions shows how these laws and processes are used practically. This can span from how to legally acquire artefacts to how to safely transport and store objects between collections. This course includes working with external institutions through volunteering, fieldtrips or work opportunities. Thus, the degree gives real-world case studies and networking opportunities. Kingston provides a variety of facilities and studios to help with the more practical aspects of my degree. The facilities span from woodwork to fashion to media to music.

My initial decision to study for my MA at KSA was based on instinct more than anything, when visiting for the open day I felt at home, the atmosphere was positive and friendly, the campus has a great feel to it with ample facilities and lots of creative inspiration. I was right to trust my instinct, my time on the course was completely transformative, my thinking and approach towards illustration has never developed and matured so rapidly and I think this is reflected in my work.

The teaching on the course is excellent, the tutors' facilitate a supportive, open and experimental environment and the projects are extremely well structured to allow students to question and test their understanding of the subject matter whilst progressing their technical ability and skill base.

Whatʼs more I have met dozens of like minded people from all across the campus and made friends for life. I would completely recommend this experience for anyone who is looking to progress their career and to carve a new path in the world.

"My enthusiasm for the profession of Landscape Architecture is entirely based upon my experience at Kingston University where I feel students are encouraged to explore diversity within the wider subject, pursuing their individual interests. This led to two key developments which have maintained my interest in Landscape Architecture.

Firstly, being encouraged to find areas of the subject which were of particular interest. I have now developed specialisms in river restoration and habitat creation, which have been realised through projects at Arup, for the Environment Agency.

Secondly, through gaining knowledge of the diversity of the subject, I firmly believe that Landscape Architects perform an essential role in coordinating technical information from a multitude of disciplines into a coherent whole."

"I decided to train to become a mental health nurse after being a support worker for deaf children with mental health difficulties. I enjoyed the teamwork involved in caring for young people, and the way the whole team focused on the best interests of the person.

"I hadn't been in an education environment for some time and as a mature student, felt a little unsure about my academic ability. Kingston University had lots of support networks in place ranging from maths help, to support with writing styles and money management. I found I was able to tap into lots of resources to help me through the study and learning process, helping me to grow as a person professionally and privately."

"It has been very interesting to explore the anthropology behind the curator and the subtle changes the whole profession has undergone. As a history graduate, the whole question really appealed to me and I really enjoyed writing it. The course is very good at facilitating your own interests and specialisms – that's for sure. Since taking the course I have gone on to manage major London events including COLLECT at the Saatchi Gallery for the Crafts Council and Open House London weekend, London's largest architectural showcase."

"I studied on the Kingston Residential Property BSc (Hons) course and the MSc allowed me to build on these skills and gain a career enhancing RICS-accredited qualification. I think an MSc opens doors and helps you stand out from the crowd in the job market."

"Choosing Kingston University has been the best choice for my development as a designer. Through its interdisciplinary format this course stands out for any individual seeking to indulge in a thorough and informed design practice. The various studio facilities available made it possible to experiment and try out innovative concepts.

The curriculum is set out perfectly and provides various opportunities to prepare yourself for the professional world. The course has been challenging and very intense at times but there is no lack of support from the faculty and other technical staff.

The tutors are very competent, encouraging and supportive to each and every student and go that extra mile to further boost our contemplations without any compromise. The overall programme was very rewarding and enriching and a worthwhile experience."

"I chose to study at Kingston University because of its high ranking for teaching quality. I've found this reputation to be justified – all the lecturers I've come across have been very friendly, helpful and encouraging.

"I received a teaching assistant scholarship from the Faculty which teaches my course. This not only provided me with financial support, but also an opportunity to interact with undergraduate students. There are people from all different countries studying at the University, which provides a great opportunity to understand different cultures and lifestyles.

"In my free time I have been exploring the different tourist places in London with friends, such as the London Eye, museums, and many more such places. It's a beautiful city, and there is always something new to be experienced every day. I am thoroughly enjoying my time here.

"After I complete my MSc, I'd like to gain some experience working in the UK and then go back and work in my home country. Kingston University has a number of job fairs for students throughout the year for part-time, summer internship and full-time jobs. They also advise on CV writing and other attributes needed to get a job.

"I would recommend studying at Kingston University to anyone who wants to enjoy a good studying environment, meet people from different cultural backgrounds, and experience the colourful life in the Kingston town."

"I had a really great experience on the Communication Design: Graphic Design MA at Kingston. We undertook group as well as personal projects. For the group project we worked with students from different design disciplines. This was not easy for me as English is not my native language, but these projects inspired me a lot during discussions, and I was positively influenced by the different perspectives from the diverse fields of design, and the cultural backgrounds of my fellow group members.

In the individual projects, we had two tutors who focused on different aspects of graphic design. They helped us to make our personal projects ambitious and perfect. During the course I learned a lot of new skills and developed my knowledge of graphic design. I am really grateful to be graduate of Kingston University."

Since finishing the course I have been able to reflect on and apply my experiences from my Key Stage 1 placement to my practice in the Pre-school room to enable me to prepare the children for school. I have been able to do this by evaluating how I prepare and deliver small group activities.

I have become more confident in working with some of the other practitioners in my setting to enable them to provide stimulating activities for the children in their rooms, that enable the children to be challenged.

Since finishing the course, I have become Room Leader of the Pre-school room, which is in combination to my EYT role. This has allowed me to build my confidence in leading and managing a team of practitioners.

"I had worked for nearly ten years after finishing my first degree, advising and assisting private tenants who had serious disputes with their landlords. When I became dissatisfied with my job, my thoughts drifted to teaching.

"I decided to apply for the PGCE at Kingston, largely because it was conveniently located for me and because of the University's excellent resources to support PGCE students.

"Although the course has been extremely demanding, both physically and mentally, I've definitely made the right decision - when I read the 'goodbye' class book given to me by the children from my last teaching practice school, I knew."

The course structure is great, and getting to work with other Game Development Design and Programming students as well as User Experience Design students has given me a lot of confidence and support. For my professional placement year, I am working as a web and Unity3D developer. Having the experience of working in a gaming company is amazing and fun, whilst meeting colleagues, going on work trips, and working and sharing knowledge helps my personal growth too.

"I am studying for my MSc part time while working full time. The option to study part time while working full time was big factor for me, as me and my partner were expecting a baby at the time. Ensuring I would receive enough income every month was very important and still is with a small child in the family.

"Working in industry after my degree gave me relevant experience and working knowledge of IT systems which was helpful while studying towards my masters degree. Since starting the MSc I have changed job and I recently started work as technical consultant for the global industry leader organisation in mobile device management, AirWatch. I believe even studying towards my MSc qualification helped me to get my current role and I hope after my graduation I will be able to move to a senior position. As my MSc course is covering some business and management modules, longer term I'm hoping to achieve a team lead role in the company.

"I think in the current economic climate obtaining extra qualifications is a benefit and it makes a difference when applying for new job. Industry experience is important, however employer's are looking very fondly on a person who is constantly trying to improve his knowledge and qualifications."

The course was a great transition for me to consolidate the practical and theory of being an Early Years Teacher. It has allowed me to gain a deeper insight into the different practices across various settings through engaging with other students on the course.

"I chose the MSc because I wanted to develop my management skills. I love the blended learning aspect – the discussion boards are great – and the lecturers are very supportive, particularly during my assignments. I'd really recommend this course."