Case studies: Plymouth University: Benjamin Sanders

Benjamin Sanders studied MSc Network Systems Engineering at Plymouth University, and is now a PhD student at the institution's school of computing and mathematics, where he hopes to eventually become a full-time lecturer

I studied a BSc in Multimedia Computing at Plymouth University, before doing my MSc. I chose Plymouth in the first instance as I was studying at a partner college (Petroc, formerly North Devon College) and wanted to progress to BSc level. I continued my studies to MSc level as the staff, quality of teaching and supervision was absolutely first class.

The staff at the university adopted a 'nothing-is-too-much-trouble' approach, providing sound advice and encouragement. Situated on the south coast, Plymouth University is set in a beautiful city overlooking Plymouth Sound, which is ideal as I love water sports, in particular diving. The institution has an excellent Diving and Marine Centre and has recently constructed a multi-million-pound building that houses a next-generation wave machine.

The faculty of science and technology offers state-of-the-art computing facilities. More recently the centre for security, communications and network research (CSCAN) has developed a digital forensics lab (DFL) - a 40-seat laboratory offering top-of-the-range forensics training students for students, staff and the public.

Furthermore, many of the courses offered by the school of computing and mathematics are accredited by external bodies such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and BCS, meaning that students are equipped with industry-standard knowledge for their future careers.

The course offered in-depth, up-to-date content on a plethora of key computing areas, such as computer security, networking and software development.

The quality of teaching was excellent, the lecture support material was clear, easy to access and very useful and the support was absolutely fantastic: nothing was too much trouble for the lecturers.

I developed important knowledge that reflects current technologies and emerging trends, for example mobile applications programming. The course not only taught relevant technical content, but also research methods, project development and presentation skills - all transferrable skills that are crucial in the workplace.

The Masters course has helped me tremendously and was very rewarding. In addition to boosting my technical skills, it also dramatically improved my reading and writing skills. 

Postgraduate study is far more intense, and faster paced than undergraduate study. The taught content is more in-depth and complex, and the deliverables (both project and module assignments) are expected to be more detailed and intricate. 

You have to be more disciplined with your work, and can no longer rely on being led by lecturers.

Postgraduate study builds on the solid foundations formed by a Bachelors degree. Postgraduate qualifications demonstrate the thorough knowledge of a subject required for more senior positions in the world of work.

Postgraduate study at Plymouth University is an excellent investment for your future. Make sure you research the course content in detail before applying so you know the course meets your requirements and career aspirations.

I am currently writing a PhD thesis in the school of computing and mathematics at Plymouth University and aim to become a full-time lecturer at the institution.