Integrated degree students graduate
A milestone was reached last week when the first group of integrated degree programme students graduated.
The programme follows a partnership between Forth Valley College and the University of Stirling .
It allowed students to graduate at the Gannochy National Tennis Centre with a BSc (Hons) in applied biological science while others gain a BA (Hons) in heritage and conservation.
Launched in August, 2013, the programme was designed with input from key industry employers and developed vocational skills and allowed students to gain hands-on experience. Its aim was to produce graduates with the skills that made them ready for work.
“This is vital for the continued success of key sectors and industries across Scotland, ” said Dr Ken Thomson, principal for Forth Valley College.
The success of the programmes have led to the introduction of two further integrated degrees, a BSc (Hons) applied computing and a BA (Hons) digital media.
The integrated degree allows students to study at Forth Valley College for two years while being recognised as university students, before completing the course at the University of Stirling.
Student Philippe Maron, who is from France but is living in Cowie, found the course particularly useful.
“It provides a good basis that allows graduates to pursue a career in heritage or open the doors to do something completely different,” said Philippe, who plans to study a Masters at the university.
Wendy Russell, from Dunblane, is grateful for the opportunities that the course has provided.
She said: “I didn’t have the qualifications. I was out of the workplace and had a family but I wanted to go back into education, so this appealed to me. I would definitely encourage others to try it.”
I would definitely encourage others to try it