Bournemouth University

I am in the first few weeks of my first 70-day placement at We Are With You (Drug and Alcohol Services) and I am finding that there is lots of opportunity for learning, both within the service and self-managed research. My practice educator has been really helpful in guiding me through the early stages of my placement and has given guidance to help me gain the best experience possible from my placement.

I am new to university and did not know what to expect when I first started at BU. I was able to enrol on the course without an undergraduate degree due to the level of professional experience I had as I held registration with CQC (Care Quality Commission) and Ofsted. The first highlight to mention is that the staff at BU have been fantastic. The other highlight has been my fellow students, as we have bonded and supported each other with assignments and have studied together. Without a doubt, it has been a great support to be able to discuss case studies and revise together.

My main challenge during my time at university has been not coming from an academic background, so it has been a real learning curve getting to grips with how to write assignments and use BU Harvard Referencing. Also, I was struggling with remembering details for a quiz, so I created an online quiz to support my learning and a measurable outcome so that I could check my skills. I shared this with the other students so that we could all have an alternative (and fun) method to learn the information.

I have really enjoyed learning about psychosocial perspectives, and I am keen to continue learning about interventions and to continue developing skills which I can utilise in practice. I hope to find a way that I can make a difference to service users and advocate for them.

I would advise others thinking of joining the course to make friends with a diverse range of people, as this will be really helpful as you study. I would also say to make the most of your personal tutor, as they will really help you to form assignments and guide you through your course. Be open with your lecturers, in my experience, they will always make time to answer questions as needed.

Originally from Denmark, Betina elected to study her Masters degree at BU because of our outstanding reputation in the tourism field.

Her decision to study at BU was made even easier thanks to the response that she received when she enquired about a place on her course. "I received a very warm welcome from the first time I enquired, and that hospitable attitude continued throughout my application and my time at the University," says Betina.

The friendly environment helped Betina settle in quickly, and get on with the serious business of studying for her degree, which in her own words, she has loved! "The degree is structured very logically and the academics are very knowledgeable and professional. They have provided me with different academic tools that I know I can use in practice in the future, and I have learned about different cultures and tourism in different countries thanks to the international environment that BU fosters. There are students from all over the world and the academic staff have all worked in the tourism industry and carried out research in many different countries. It has been very inspirational."

As much as Betina has enjoyed throwing herself into her studies, she recongises that it is ‘very important’ to do something away from academic life. “Whether you join a sports club, a social club, or get involved in other activities, it enriches your life, develops your social skills and helps you to meet people from other courses,” she says.

BU’s great location has also been something that Betina has taken full advantage of during her time in the UK. “It is close to the sea, near to the New Forest national park, and within easy reach of lots of interesting cities in southern England. I like outdoor activities such as running and walking and Bournemouth and the surrounding areas offer lots of cycling and walking paths.”

“As a result of the global nature of my course, I feel I am more independent than ever and have developed my personal and professional skills. Being part of such an international environment means I have made contact with people from all over the world, which I consider to be an advantage in my future career. I am confident that my Masters from BU will be of huge benefit to me in the future.”

My name is Consuelo and I am a registered Dietitian and recent graduate from MSc Nutrition & Behaviour at BU.

When I decided to expand my knowledge and skills by pursuing a Master’s degree, the programme at BU instantly stood out from the rest by focusing on the complex link between nutrition and psychology and including a work-based learning experience via a short placement.

During the course, I enjoyed the extensive in-class discussions. By constantly discussing topics with peers with diverse backgrounds, and receiving individualised feedback, I was able to build on my critical thinking and reflective skills. On top of that, all lecturers were very approachable, patient, and enthusiastic. They helped me find a great placement with Apetito UK, in Trowbridge, and were always on hand to provide career advice.

Still, heading into a postgraduate course is challenging. Balancing your workload is difficult. Managing assignments, a dissertation, a placement, a part-time job and allowing room for time off can be overwhelming. I started going on walks every time my brain wasn’t cooperating with me, as per a lecturer’s suggestion. Try and figure out a strategy early on that works for you to benefit your mental health.

Overall, completing this Master’s degree at BU has allowed me to showcase my ability to work autonomously. I have also gained more confidence in my ability to critically evaluate and reflect on nutrition related issues and my ability to communicate these as a team member within the workplace.

Towards the end of my masters, I decided that looking for a full-time job and gaining more work experience and specialising as a Dietitian was what I wanted to do next. I found that many qualities you gain through this programme are very sought after when applying for jobs in nutrition. I would definitely recommend checking out these resources and attending their webinars to get a feel for what UK employers want from graduates and how the interview process works here, as it is very different to what I was used to in my home country, Chile.

I was lucky enough to know exactly what kind of role I wanted to go into after uni, and I will be taking on a post as a Specialist Dietitian within a Mental Health Service for Older People, promoting health and independence for people living with dementia or other mental health needs.

I had always thought that I would continue my education to help further my career. After gaining some work experience and talking to co-workers going back to school, I decided that I wanted to get my master’s degree.

Determining what I wanted to get my master’s degree in was a harder decision. As a nurse, my main two options to advance in my career were either to get a master’s in nursing or to get an MBA. I found that I was more inclined toward the business side of healthcare and medicine leading me to choose an MBA for my master’s.

The Bournemouth MBA is an extensive and intense year-long course. Although at times the program was extremely challenging and exhausting, one of my top reasons for choosing the course was because it is only a year long. When planning out my future, a year of my life dedicated to advancing my career seemed completely worth the sacrifices. Another thing that caught my attention is that Bournemouth’s MBA course is AACSB accredited.

As an international student I knew that by having this accreditation, employers in my home country would recognize this accreditation as an indicator that I attended a program that holds its students to a specific standard. Before applying I capitalised on the opportunities to talk to the MBA director provided by the virtual visit days. I felt that the faculty were honest about the program and provided me with examples of other students with no business background who had completed the course.

One of the things that I liked about this course was that there are no tests in this course. The course focuses more on real-world experience and provides students with work that relates to the work they can be expected to do once they are in the workforce.

Looking back on the year I have gained knowledge, skills, and abilities that I didn’t have before. I have also gained a greater understanding of the world and the people in it. My cohort consisted of people from different backgrounds and cultures all with their own differing insights and opinions making you rethink your view of the world. We also had many opportunities to present our ideas and show our work to real-life clients providing us with the opportunity to receive feedback like we would if we were working for them.

Tell us a bit about yourself and the course you studied
My name is Georgina (Gina), I’m 23 and I studied MSc Investigative Forensic Psychology, after completing my BSc in Psychology for 3 years.

Is there anything in particular that you’ve enjoyed most about studying Investigative Forensic Psychology?
I enjoyed learning about the content on the course, for example the Investigative Forensic Psychology unit and writing a research project on a topic you’re most interested in. As part of my research, I got to interview police officers, which was definitely interesting.

What about any challenges that you’ve come across?
When I undertook the course, it was all online, due to the pandemic happening and many uncertainties. This meant we weren’t able to take advantage of some of the facilities, like the psychology testing suite, available at BU. But, despite being based online, it was still quite interactive, and I enjoyed it. Though it was hard not being to have as much social interaction whenever you wanted with peers.

What did you do after graduation?
I got a job offer in January this year, working as a Mental Health Support Worker for Dorset Healthcare on a forensic ward. If you want to go down that kind of route in forensic mental health or psychology, or just want a taster of what it’s like, then it’s an absolutely great experience. It’s a great thing to have on your CV and can also take you into different pathways/avenues if you’re unsure on what you want to go into, whether that’s psychology/mental health related or not. It’s so interesting.

Have you got any advice for anyone thinking of studying Investigative Forensic Psychology or thinking about coming to study at BU?
I would definitely say go for it if you find forensic psychology interesting or want to pursue some sort of career in it. The course definitely helps you and gives you the skills and confidence in order to take that next step into a job. Also, I think for anyone applying to do it, you will most likely get the best experience out of it. Just go for it and don’t hold back, give it a shot for sure.

Hi, I am Hem, an international student and I studied MSc Management with Business Analytics at BU. Currently, I am on my placement and working as an IT Insights and Monitoring Analyst. My role involves managing an AI powered end user device experience software.

As summer was approaching I was super nervous and at the same time excited about applying for multiple jobs at multiple companies for my placement year. I did not know where to get started and had suffered many setbacks but in the end, all of it was extremely rewarding. I have created this step-by-step guide on how I got a paid placement in the UK.

Step 1: Ask

People are really friendly and more than happy to help and guide. This gave me a good start with what goes in my resume, what positions should I target in general and what platforms to use.

Step 2: Write, Rewrite, Review, Get Feedback, and Edit

Do mention all your projects relevant to the position targeted and your skills in the UK format. Review it with free tools like Grammarly. Get it then checked by others to see if you could add or remove anything.

Step 3: Do Not Restrict Your Job Search Location

Be prepared to pack your bags and move locations if selected.

Step 4: Keep track

Best time saver for me at least. Column Headers could be platform, company, applied/pending, follow-up date, selected-Yes/No and whatever you feel is important for you – location, commitment duration etc.

Step 5: Platforms

Using multiple platforms to save jobs. Network with alumni and apply to the companies that they had worked in previously if positions are available.

Step 6: Practise Numerical and Verbal Questions for Assessment Tests

Almost every job would have a basic numerical abilities test and verbal abilities test. It would be good to practice some.

Step 7: Practise in Front of the Mirror for Video Interviews

Manage the anxiety of recording a video interview, especially if you are camera conscious or if English is not your first language. These interviews compel us to know ourselves better, for me it was particularly hard, but after some trials and rejections, I got a knack for it and overcome my fear.

Step 8: Repeat the Cycles of the Application

Keep looking until you find a placement. With each application try to get feedback.

Why did I choose BU again? Accreditation & value for money

Since BU is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business (AACSB), and not all universities have this, I wanted to stay somewhere that was well accredited. Also, BU offers a discount on postgraduate tuition if you’ve completed your undergraduate degree here, making it better value for money.

More in-depth study and interesting course content

I liked the fact that the MSc Marketing Management (Digital) didn’t repeat much of the same course content as my undergraduate degree in Business & Management with Marketing but instead went into more depth in similar units and some units were completely different.

In comparison to other universities, I found the course more creative especially considering I would be working with businesses meaning I am making an impact and gaining real experiences.

Great place to live

I love the area and I knew that I’d be happy living here long-term and being able to explore Bournemouth more especially considering my undergraduate was cut short, thanks to COVID.

Career prospects

Part of the reason I decided to do a master’s at BU was for my career prospects and whilst currently applying for jobs I have noticed that it has improved my confidence and I am qualified specifically in marketing. A few employers have also commented on my qualifications being the reason they selected me for an interview. I also feel that I have a better understanding of the jobs I would like to apply to because I can explore different aspects like campaign planning and industries different from my own experience.

How have I found postgraduate study so far?

One unit that I really enjoyed was Omnichannel strategy and supply chain management. When looking at the course content I thought it would be more technical and potentially one I wouldn’t enjoy as much. However, I found it very interesting, and it was the unit I enjoyed the most in the second semester. The assignment was completed as a portfolio on Mahara, which is a similar type of thing to bookzy which I used in the first unit but I liked it as it is different from the typical essays.

Would I recommend postgraduate study?

The short answer is yes! I have enjoyed learning even more about marketing and it has made me much more employable.

I graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a BSc in Diagnostic Radiography in 2019 where I have worked as a diagnostic radiographer and CT Specialist before my admission into Bournemouth University. I decided to study Medical Imaging with Management at BU because of the structure of the course, and it being among the best ranking universities in the UK.

The thing I enjoyed the most studying at BU is the ease and comfort provided for studying, ranging from books to study spaces from the library and the facilities in the Bournemouth Gateway Building including the MRI suite that conduct cutting-edge research. Additionally, the lecturers were very supportive. They were very approachable and very generous with their time. They were there to give further explanations or guidance through scheduled visits or emails.

During my course, I learnt the following challenging topics; Application of Convolution and Filter, Spin-Echo and Gradient Echo Imaging and Scan Parameters. Moreover, Designing a Health Information System and Managing People. All the modules I studied were compulsory and interesting but Health Information System, MRI and Managing People stood out for me. These modules were not just new to me but also challenging and inspiring. They acted as an eye opener not only to current practices in the field but also the changes and development that are expected to happen in the future.

As a Radiographer, I feel the course provides a blend between the clinical aspect of imaging as well as a bit of leadership, and leads to a much better understanding and appreciation of imaging practice as whole, from the leadership role to the clinical role. It has also opened my mind to rapid development in imaging and how I can be involved as well as move with this fast-growing field.

The advice I would give to students considering studying Medical Imaging at BU is to study hard and work hard. I was able to work part-time and study a full time MSc course. Do not take any lecture, practical or assignment for granted. Do not be scared to approach the lecturers or staff when in need of assistance.

When I graduate, I intend to implement what I have learnt as much as possible and using this qualification as a ladder into furthering my career path in terms of obtaining a PhD.

The search for a placement through Bournemouth University using all the online support on offer was proving very productive and I was able to secure a few interviews with leading brand hotels and smaller local businesses. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the global pandemic was increasing in intensity which saw all these opportunities withdrawn and sadly some of the smaller companies going into receivership.

Despite these drawbacks, I continued my search and found a company called Wiltshire Wellness who were advertising for a head of logistics in a new start-up venture supplying goods to the hospitality sector and a number of small businesses in the UK.

Wiltshire Wellness (WW)

The company was recently founded by 3 executives with a view to sourcing goods from South East Asia (principally Thailand and surrounding countries) and supplying an identified demand in the UK. In support of this they required an individual with experience of supply chain and logistics and also someone accustomed to a business working environment within the UK.

My initial role under the placement was to liaise with the overseas supply chain (factory production), ensure shipments were dispatched, tracked and then upon landing in the UK, managing distribution to clients. Being a Thai speaker and being able to draw upon my previous work in supply chain I was able to add value to the company and I found my role evolving with more responsibilities.

Challenges and lessons learned

The nature of the business dictates that we are supplying goods to businesses/individuals on agreed terms. Expectations for all people need to be maintained and this is a daily challenge. A disruption in supply chain (factory issues for example), a missed order or a miscommunication generates work and the requirement to problem solve.

Perhaps key lessons I have learned is the importance of clear communication both verbally and written and trying to be flexible whenever possible. Sometimes completely unforeseen events affect your work and it is at those times that clear strategic thinking is required to best solve issues.

Future plans and advice

WW have indicated that I might wish to remain working with them beyond my placement which is a very exciting option for me. I would say that the support BU and International College gave me and the high-quality teaching are contributing factors to being able to secure my placement but also confidently navigat

Student's report published by the National Preparedness Commission

Bournemouth University (BU) MSc Disaster Management student Lianna Roast has written a report for the National Preparedness Commission.

The report, titled Learning that can save lives, looks at how lessons from disasters can be translated into real-world change and asks how human psychology can ensure lessons from past events are learned.

The National Preparedness Commission, chaired by Lord Toby Harris, exists to promote better preparedness for a major crisis or incident. The Commission publishes several reports on disaster preparedness each year and Lianna was invited to write a report after presenting to Lord Harris.

With an undergraduate degree in psychology, Lianna brought that perspective to her MSc in Disaster Management at BU and sought to investigate how lessons learned from previous major incidents could be applied to protect against future disaster.

Lianna said: “Throughout my MSc I had been struck by the agonising reality that often individuals, organisations and indeed nations can find the process of turning important lessons from major incidents and disasters into practical, improved preparedness very challenging.

“Sadly, this can result in mistakes of the past being repeated and preventable losses being incurred when the next disaster strikes. I felt compelled to address the issue in any way I could.

“As my undergraduate degree was in psychology and the learning process is inherently psychological, I felt there was room for new perspectives on this challenge, and that I might be able to combine my BSc and MSc knowledge to add value in this area. After discussing my ideas with the faculty, I presented my proposal to the Chair of the Commission, Lord Toby Harris, and was invited to draft the report.”

The report has been well received by industry professionals and it has received a commendation from the Director of the UK Cabinet Office’s Emergency Planning College as well as positive feedback from senior consultants and academics.

Speaking at the launch of the report, Lord Toby Harris, Chair of the National Preparedness Commission, said: “Too often, after any disaster or crisis we hear the promise ‘Lessons will be learned’. However, that is sometimes as far as it goes. The UK needs new thinking when it comes to identifying lessons: if we keep using the same methods and the same people, we’ll keep getting the same le

While completing a Master’s was always part of my plan, it was something I never wanted to rush. So, taking a break after my BA to travel the world for a few years, gave me time to make sure my postgraduate degree was what I really wanted, and that it would close the gap between studying at university and stepping into employment.

Being near the seaside was what I wanted, and Bournemouth obviously ticked that box. I also went to a university introduction event back in Finland where a BU representative helped me to find a course that suited my career interests. Being half Scottish, coming back to the UK felt familiar.

The degree helps you learn from real-life case studies, allows you to use your creativity and develop teamwork skills. I highly recommend it. My advice for anyone considering this as their next education step is to be proactive, learn from those around you, be inquisitive, and challenge yourself. Make the most of every opportunity.


As a kid, I always thought I’d stick with one company and work my way up into more senior positions. Now I’m taking it day-by-day. I am focused on enjoying what I do, attentive to my dreams but also making sure to enjoy the ride.

As a graduate, I started with a local, family-run development and lettings company. It was a role that gave me creative freedom on areas such as logo and brochure creation and even opportunities to show my passion for interior design.

Now I’m loving my current job in tech marketing, working with skilled and creative people from photographers to filmmakers and software developers. It can be highly technical at times, but we all start from somewhere and learn while doing. You just need to be brave and even make mistakes to get better.

It’s taken a few job roles for me to get where I am now. The recruiting process was extensive and initially, I received a no. It took me to places I didn’t envision. A year later, after doing something else, I’m right where I want to be. I persevered and I got the ‘yes’ I wanted.

My name is Samira. I am in my first year of the PhD in the Design and Engineering department. I am an international student from Jordan. My research in sponsored by Zimmer and involves improving/validation the design of a sensor used during total knee replacements to help surgeons.

Challenges and overcoming them

Moving from abroad while starting this journey took some adjustment which can be challenging. However, there is a lot of support from the Doctoral College. For example, there are get-togethers for international students and various clubs for hobbies and sports. I have already noticed how much I have grown in this short timeframe which makes me excited for the future.

Considering my career options

Before starting my PhD, I wanted to have a career in academia. However, now I am keen to learn about what options are available to me in the private sector. I can get advice from professors where some have had a career in the private sector before academia. So, although graduation is not for another 2 years, the future is something I am exploring through the resources available at the university.

Globally, there are so many different opportunities for people in STEM and specifically engineering which is very exciting. The demand is high for engineers so finding a suitable career after graduation is easier than with some other majors.

Some advice I would give for prospective students looking at engineering, especially women, is to explore different topics in engineering before you immediately write off the whole subject. Engineering gets a bad reputation as boring or as a boy’s club, which can be intimidating. However, engineering is a widely diverse subject where essentially every topic can be seen from an engineering standpoint. For example, my undergraduate degree was in biomedical engineering where mechanical and electrical engineering were combined to explore a wide variety of topics in the medical field. This includes medical devices, prosthetics, artificial organs, tissue engineering, and so many more.

Another piece of advice is to have an idea of what kind of job you see yourself doing in the future, do you like hand-on work? do you prefer working online? There is a way to incorporate these into your career. Additionally, something to take into consideration is that jobs in STEM fields are in high demand which means after graduation, finding a job will be easier and full of opportunities.