Christine Morrison - MSc Environmental Health (Online)
Christine has recently graduated from the MSc Environmental Heath (Online).
Christine Morrison who studied MSc Environmental Health (Online).
"The lecturers were very supportive and understanding. Some of the lecturers are Environmental Health Officers and therefore have got lots of practical experience and understanding of the work involved.
”What did you think of the course?
I found the course very interesting and I enjoyed the whole experience of studying the MSc Environmental Health (Online). I attended the University for one taught module, which was useful to put faces to the names for the lecturers, as well as getting the opportunity to meet fellow students on the course.
What modules did you find interesting?
All of the modules were interesting, but in particular, the ones that had practical application to work were very good. I enjoyed Health and Safety: Workplace Environment. I also enjoyed the negotiated module that Scottish students need to complete to satisfy the REHIS (Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland) requirements. This module covered pollution control (noise pollution, air quality and contaminated land) and I found it very interesting.
The Practical Food Inspection module was also very good. I found it particularly interesting getting the opportunity to examine and taste the more exotic fruit and vegetables that we tend not to see on a regular basis.
What skills have you developed in particular?
I've developed skills in various areas, but in particular, I've become more aware of the stressors that act on the sphere of environmental health and the intervention strategies and legislation that can be used to deal with these stressors. I've gained a deeper appreciation of how the subject areas interrelate and how the environment has the potential to affect public health.
How have you found studying online?
Studying online was great, as it allowed me to work full time as a food safety officer with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council) while undertaking the qualification. The UDo system and Blackboard were easy to navigate and it was useful having the course material online. Some tutorials and presentations were done by video conferencing which was really useful. Having access to Athens via Blackboard meant that I was able to research assignments without any difficulty and without having to access to an academic library in person.
How have you found the lecturers?
The lecturers were very supportive and understanding. Some of the lecturers are environmental health officers and therefore have got lots of practical experience and understanding of the work involved. If there were any problems or issues, these were normally resolved quickly.
What would you say to someone coming to Derby?
Enjoy the experience of studying at the University, whether you are there in person or a distance learner.
What are you doing now?
I sat my REHIS professional examinations in November 2009 and was delighted to pass and obtain my Diploma in Environmental Heath, which I need to practice as an environmental health officer. I graduated from the University of Derby (in absentia) in January 2010 with a Distinction and I will start working as an environmental health officer with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar in April 2010.
