Peter Winters, 53, from Birmingham completed his BA (Hons) International Relations at Staffordshire University in 1993 and it was his first choice when deciding to do a postgraduate course - despite living on the other side of the world.
“I always felt that there was a bit more to do, but it was never the right time. I've been living and working overseas for the best part of the last 20 years and, whilst in Delhi in my last post, I decided that it was the right time to come back into it. It just felt right,” Peter explained.
“I chose to come back to this uni because I loved it so much last time and I always wanted to do my Masters here.”
Peter enrolled on the MA International Relations distance learning course which allowed him to complete his studies alongside working in India in as an immigration officer. The degree is taught and assessed entirely online, giving students the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere.
"Because of the nature of the course, it changes. Theory changes, international phenomenon changes. It is a fast moving world, a fast moving course. I'd recommend anybody to go for distance learning.”
Despite the challenges of studying through the Covid pandemic and losing his father at the start of the course, Peter’s hard work paid off with support from his lecturers.
Peter said: “To come back into studying was very difficult. It was an upward learning curve, getting used to the way the essays are having to be written and having to combine it with the daily life of being a parent and working.
“Fiona Robinson-Snape, the course tutor, was excellent throughout and she was always there for me. And I don't think I'd be able to be standing here now if it wasn't for Fiona's help and support.”
Having now graduated, Peter is confident that his new qualification will open up opportunities for the next phase of his career.
He added: “It's going to be invaluable in helping me take the next steps from doing the immigration work, to doing more central government work.”
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