Colum Twomey

Colum graduated from the MSc Safety, Risk & Reliability Engineering by Independent Distance Learning programme in 2015. He currently works as an Environmental Health & Safety Engineer at Merck.

Why did you decide to come to Heriot-Watt over other places offering similar courses?

As the MSc Safety, Risk & Reliability Engineering at Heriot-Watt is completely distance learning and up to 7 years in duration this was the kind of flexibility I sought. When I commenced my MSc I was uncertain of where I would be located geographically for the following years so such flexibility was a major influencing factor for me over other locations.

Do you feel your degree has prepared you well for a career?

Yes, the degree combines the theoretical aspects of the course very well with industry specific case studies and/ or course work which helps you prepare very well for industrial real life applications. Every so often I still consult my course notes for particular workplace situations.

Has your degree programme helped you develop links with industry?

Yes, the LinkedIn MSc page connects well with industry and the latest changes in regulation and best practise.

What was the teaching support like?

VISION is a very interactive learning platform. The teaching support is always there when you need it whether it be by phone, email or discussion boards on VISION.

What advice would you give to a postgraduate student considering embarking on their studies at Heriot-Watt?

Utilise the VISION platform to communicate to other students studying the same modules; by communicating you can provide reassurance to others and help others overcome obstacles together. Sometimes distance learning study can be a lonely place, so it is essential to reach out and communicate both for success and friendship.

The teaching support is always there when you need it whether it be by phone, email or discussion boards on VISION.