17 July 2012
The Business and Management degree, now in its second year, is validated by Plymouth University and offers students the opportunity to study for a degree in Jersey whilst acquiring skills of practical use in a working environment.
The link between the States of Jersey and Highlands College builds on the success of the BA (Hons) in Financial Services which is supported by many of the Island’s leading finance firms. Placements run for periods of 13 weeks in year 1 and 15 weeks in year 2 and is paid work.
During 2012 a business and management degree student has been on placement with the Economic Development Department. Robert Timoney, a mature student, commenting on the scheme said, “I was apprehensive about returning to study after such a long break but the support and guidance I have received from the staff at Highlands has been fantastic. The placement has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of work I have had.”
Ben Bennett, Curriculum Manager for the degree programme, said: “Increasingly employers are seeking relevant degree level qualifications as well as evidence of work experience from job applicants and our Business and Management programme is the only degree of its kind able to offer this in Jersey. It is encouraging news that the States has agreed to add placements across a range of departments to their existing support for the programmes. The College is pleased that our range of degrees means we are able to develop home-grown talent for both the public and private sector.”
Mark Sinclair, States of Jersey Human Resources Department Director, said: “The various States departments are well placed to add practical value to these degree courses. Highlands College has created an academic and workplace model that can deliver graduates ready for employment. By linking with the college we can help with this process and offer the considerable variety of experiences encompassed by the workings of government”.