Stuart
From Experience to Qualification: Progressing My Career Through the Top-Up Degree
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I came into the course with years of leadership experience, but studying has allowed me to refine my skills even further.
Turning Experience into Opportunity
In my current role as a senior leader for Age Connects Morgannwg, I recently had the opportunity to apply for a CEO position. Although my skills and experience were strong, I didn’t meet the criteria because I lacked a degree-level qualification. That moment became the catalyst for returning to education. After researching my options, I came across the University of South Wales. The online resources gave me confidence to enrol straight away, and I could see how the course would fit around my professional life. From research to enrolment, the process took just a few days, and my workplace was fully supportive of my decision.
One of the most useful modules for me has been Business Strategy. My organisation is currently developing its next three-year plan, so being able to apply what I’m learning about internal and external factors has had real-world relevance. The facilities and support at USW have also been invaluable. The library and online resources have strengthened my research skills, and even simple things like having access to a canteen make balancing study and work much easier.
Find your courseAdapting and Growing Through Study
Although I came into the course with years of leadership experience, studying has allowed me to refine my skills further and gain a qualification I once deemed unattainable. Research has been the biggest area of growth — learning how to apply proper methodologies rather than relying solely on intuition. After 12 years in the military and a career in the charity sector, adaptability has always been one of my strengths, but this course has reignited my motivation to learn and grow. I never would have imagined studying for a degree at 16, but now I’m fully engaged and ready to take on new opportunities.
Balancing study with full-time work has shown me how capable I am when I commit to something new. The course has already enhanced the way I think strategically and has given me the qualification to match my professional experience. My advice for anyone considering a top-up degree is simple: it’s never too late to learn and gain qualifications.
Employability and Careers