Ready to take control of your learning and achieve your dream qualifications? University College Isle of Man’s (UCM) Work Based and Integrated Studies (WBIS) framework is here to make it happen, your way!
So, what’s so special about it?
WBIS is all about putting you in the driver’s seat. Whether it’s a BA, BSc or Masters, this flexible framework allows you to design a personalised pathway to fit around your life and your profession. Plus, you may be able to receive academic credit for the relevant knowledge and skills experience you already have gained in the workplace.
Students negotiate the final title of their degree to ensure it fully reflects their chosen area of study and expertise. With each title specifically chosen and often unique, it encompasses a range of sectors, with previous WBIS degree titles including: MSc Business Entrepreneurship with Security Engineering, MA Risk Compliance and Strategic Management, and BA (Hons) Highway Engineering, Network Planning & Asset Management.
Gail Corrin, Higher Education Manager at UCM, said “Teaching on the WBIS framework is incredibly rewarding because it’s all about facilitating students to shape their own learning journey and realising the potential of their workplace to achieve that learning. Seeing them grow in confidence, apply their knowledge in real-world settings, and achieve their goals right here on the Island, is what makes this programme so special.”
Support Every Step of the Way
No need to worry about feeling lost or overwhelmed, from day one, you will have a personal academic tutor who’s got your back. They’ll help you design your learning plan, support your work-based projects, and cheer you on through every step of your journey. It’s like having your own academic coach!
You will also have access to engaging face-to-face workshops to kickstart your learning, plus the University of Chester’s, who validate UCM’s degrees, a virtual learning environment and both UCM’s and Chester’s large range of e-resources. Everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Why stay on Island?
Studying via the WBIS pathway at UCM means you don’t have to leave home to chase your goals. Forget about long commutes or moving far away, you can build your future right here.
With small classes, you will receive plenty of one-on-one support and the chance to build strong connections with other local industry experts. It’s a win-win for your studies and your career.
Emma Sayle, Sustainability Officer at Hansard Global and winner of Gef 30 under 30 2024 Awards in the UNESCO Biosphere IOM and Bet Zero Sustainability category, graduated from UCM with a Masters’ in Business and Sustainable Practice via the WBIS programme. She shared:
“During my degree I had the opportunity to undertake two twenty-week placements where I gathered research from local businesses across the Island, and worked closely with UNESCO Biosphere and Chamber of Commerce to develop my project.”
“I would wholeheartedly recommend UCM’s degree pathway, and being able to remain on Island, save money and build such strong industry links, has been a real bonus.”
If you’re ready to turn your ambitions into reality, WBIS at UCM is the perfect place to start. With flexibility, support, and connections all wrapped up in one programme, the sky truly is the limit.