Distance makes the brain grow hungrier

By Kate Hassett

Distance makes the brain grow hungrier
Why finding your passion can be easier and closer than you think.

Now, more than ever, serious competition in the work place is driving the need for post-graduate study in order to exceed career expectations. Employers are seeking a point of difference to the flurry of applicants, and applicants are seeking the answers to stagnant careers choices.

A second degree, or post-graduate study, is often seen as a direct response to a world of degree inflation, whereby a simple Bachelor degree just doesn’t cut it like it used to. Whilst further study used to be a move reserved for those in the medical and legal fields, now students of all backgrounds are pursuing the lure of advanced tertiary study.

One reason for this can be linked to the growing number of Universities offering distance learning. A trend that has seen huge benefits relayed to those wishing to balance work and life commitments, whilst advancing their education.

From PHD’s to MBA’s, post-graduate study and second degrees, are no longer reserved for the perpetual academics amongst us. With more universities offering excellent research facilities and programs, the prospects of obtaining a specialised degree is becoming more and more intriguing.

Since numbers are smaller in post-grad degrees, students get the benefit of more personalised learning. Especially with distance education, where advancements in technology have meant face-to-face education is often even better than being physically there.

“Essentially, half of our student population studies by distance,” says Duncan O’Hara, director for the Distance Education Future Learning Alliance at Massey University.

When it comes to busy professionals, O’Hara acknowledges that flexibility is key in allowing students to reach their full potential, at their own pace.

“Having been in the distance education game for longer than any other university in New Zealand, [we] know a few things about what makes distance work – one of those things is providing really good support like a distance service library, which is highly regarded, good course advice, workload advice and also understanding their issues,” says O’Hara

The demand for distance education is something that all universities will need to meet should they wish to progress and grow as institutions. Going back to school is a decision that can change the lives of many by providing opportunities to start upon another path in life, that might have otherwise been unobtainable.

For more information on distance or post-grad learning visit the Massey University website.

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