Returning to Study While Working: How an Online MSc Opened New Career Paths.

Driving innovation in Northern Ireland’s food industry

In his current role, Russell works with the Northern Irish Food Industry, where he supports organisations in using technology to find innovative and sustainable solutions to challenges such as food safety risks, shelf-life optimisation, waste reduction, and product quality improvement. He also teaches students on their post-16 courses and undergraduate degree programmes.

Why an online MSc in Environmental Health was the perfect fit

Russell completed his MSc in Environmental Health, an online master’s degree, through the University of Derby. He chose this well-established and highly regarded course for its strong reputation and the flexibility it offered. The online format provided the ideal balance, allowing him to continue working full-time while pursuing his studies to further develop his expertise.

‘I never lost my interest’: A career pivot years in the making

Working in the food industry throughout this entire time, my career regularly led me across the paths of local authority Environmental Health Officers (EHO), and I never lost my interest in this field as a career.  I was working on the advisory side of their enforcement remit. So, when the opportunity came up to study the MSc Environmental Health, I went for it and 3 years later, I graduated as a graduate EHO with a distinction at master's level.

Turning learning into practice: Direct impact on his work

The master’s programme aligned closely with Russell’s role. Many of the topics covered, especially those related to legislation, could be directly applied to his work, allowing him to translate academic learning into practical, industry insights.

‘I was able to consolidate my existing knowledge in these areas and develop it further. Having completed the dissertation in my final year (2002 was the last time I’d done this) allowed me to upskill in this area, which was invaluable knowledge and expertise that I was able to use in a position of supervising my own undergraduate students who were completing their own dissertations too.

Ultimately the qualification will allow me to change career if I decide to do so and there are limitless career options available from holding an MSc Environmental Health.

Overcoming the daunting start: Support that made the difference

Russell initially found returning to study a little daunting after being away from academia for some time. However, the academic support he received quickly eased those concerns and helped him settle into postgraduate study.

Russell reflects on his Online study journey

‘I can honestly say I had a wholly enjoyable experience throughout the 3 years of online study. There is no doubt that the course is not easy – it is a master’s degree after all. But the entire programme is well- paced, and the course is well delivered by the academic staff from the university. The online library is fantastic and there are lots of opportunities and assistance to help develop these skills.

I would advise prospective students to make sure you get to know your teachers and your study mates. Although it’s an online course, this is entirely possible to do. I found the support particularly strong at dissertation writing stage. I had an incredible supervisor whose calm reassurance always kept me on track and made another daunting experience into a very enjoyable one indeed.’

Russell’s Top Tips for Online Learners

1. Just do it!
2. Get to know your tutors and learning colleagues!
3. Make full use of the online library resources
4. Complete as many study units as early as possible to give yourself time for assignments
5. Read the assignment brief thoroughly and stick to it
6. Choose your dissertation topic early so you can hit the ground running in year 3

Becoming a Confident Researcher and Critical Thinker

During the programme, Russell strengthened his ability to think critically, analyse information, and communicate effectively - skills that have proven invaluable in his current role and continue to support his professional growth.

‘Since studying with the University, my dissertation was submitted for publication in a recognised journal. This is an opportunity I would never even have considered at the beginning of this course. I was also lucky enough to receive an academic award which looks great on the CV.

For me there are several takeaways from this course. A positive learning experience, the opportunity to make life-long friends, the graduation ceremony itself (what a day) and overall, the fact that I have achieved a qualification at master’s level.’

Looking ahead: Considering a PhD and new research horizons

Russell says ‘At the moment I’m considering the possibility of studying for a PhD. I’d always thought if I did so it would be in a food microbiology related discipline but since studying for MSc, I find the whole Public Health area fascinating and would consider any opportunities for research there.’