David Duell

Research Projects Facilitator (Post-Award) | University of Birmingham   

As I do not have an undergraduate degree, I was attracted by the opportunity to undertake a postgraduate qualification on the basis of my experience working in the HE sector. The programme built a real interest in policy and the professional climate, as well as a much better understanding of reflective theory. In providing both of these modules, I found the programme well rounded, and it has definitely given me a lot that I use in my day to day working life. As my last academic qualifications were A levels (and these over ten years ago), I was concerned that I might struggle with the assignment format and requirements, but I found the course team hugely helpful and the requirements were very well explained. There is some sensible (but not arduous) pre reading recommended by the programme, which also really helped acclimatise me to the demands of the course.

I met some great people from across the sector and this course has definitely built my confidence both in my day to day role and as a professional within the sector. I feel well ‘networked’ and my understanding of the context in which I’m working is substantially better. The course also reinforced my approach to planning work over time; in planning reading and assignment work at the beginning of the course I was able to ensure that I worked consistently and that my work/life/study balance was effective. I’m motivated to continue my journey and am looking forward to registering on the PGDip in 2020!

Bushra Shaikha

Assistant Registrar | Aga Khan University | Pakistan

I started working in higher education as a Programme Administrator at an international university in London. As I progressed in my role and got promoted to Assistant Registrar, I realised to have a real impact I’d have to further improve my knowledge of the HE sector in the UK, but also build on my management and leadership skills. So, I decided to pursue the AUA PgCert in April 2018.

I expected to grow professionally, but the programme also helped me build a lot of self awareness in terms of my strengths and weaknesses. This gave me a lot more confidence and helped me land a new management role.

For those thinking about the AUA PgCert, I would leverage the action plan provided by the course conveners, and keep in touch with your mentors, as they can be a real asset throughout.

Bradley Shadwell

Senior Education Administrator (Undergraduate) | University of Bristol 

I began to study for the PgCert exactly one year after embarking on my first role within HE. I was initially concerned that I didn’t have the experience of the sector to succeed, however support from my mentor and the staff present at the study days meant this was not the case. 

Since enrolling in the PgCert, I have been able to apply knowledge to my practice and progress through two grade boundaries in the space of 12 months. I have found that analysis of the changing sector in module one  and developing my critical reflection skills in module two has enabled me to identify my strengths and weaknesses and then use these to my advantage when completing my duties and standing out from my competitors during recruitment processes. 

I found the juggle of studying and working full time particularly challenging. However, this has been a fantastic way to improve my time management abilities. I now feel confident to tackle a heavy workload, complete duties to a high standard and still maintain a healthy work/life balance. 

As an Accredited member of the AUA I feel this course is an interesting and challenging tool to improve professional practice. By embarking on the PgCert you are highlighting your commitment to your career in HE. I would recommend this course to anyone who wishes to push their career a step further. I have developed a great network of colleagues, all of which face similar challenges as I do in their roles – you are not alone!