Student profile - BSc (Hons) Rural Development Studies*

Before applying to UHI I had already applied to other universities and courses. Glasgow and Edinburgh were top of the list, and the courses ranged from archaeology to animal science, I wasn't at all sure what I wanted to study! Time passed by and still I didn’t know what subject I was interested in enough to study for the next four years. Then I heard about the increasing range of undergraduate degrees that were available at my local learning centre through UHI, and dropped in to see what was on offer.

After finishing sixth year I started Rural Development Studies* which I picked because of the wide subject variety. It looks at a lot of issues that are of interest to me, like sustainable development, renewable energy, conservation and environmental issues. Studying through UHI meant that I was able to stay at home- which was of a huge financial benefit. As all the course material is accessible 24/7, the course is flexible enough to allow me to continue in my part time job.

I always found tutors, college staff and librarians to be very helpful, and have never felt disadvantaged because I was ‘distance learning’. By studying through UHI I have met lots of great people from all over the Highlands and Islands, and been able to discuss rural issues with people who have been affected by them.

I graduated in 2007 with a first class honours and I am now working for Community Energy in my home town of Oban.

I really enjoy my job and it shows that, with UHI, it's possible to get a good degree and a great job in the Highlands and Islands, without having to move away and incur huge debts.

*This course is now run as BSc (Hons) Sustainable Rural Development