MSc Sustainability case study: Sophie Bowers
Sophie Bowers graduated from our MSc Sustainability degree in 2024. Here, she talks about why she decided to study with ARU, and what's changed since she graduated.
Flexible learning
The course covered a wide range of subjects which I felt would allow me to freely explore different areas of sustainability. I also chose the course as it offered a lot of flexibility, allowing it to fit into my life. I didn’t need to be on campus on a regular basis; however, I still had access to all of the facilities that I needed.
The study blocks completed during the course were shared across being on campus in Cambridge and the Eden Project in Cornwall, a partner of the course. Meanwhile, the assignments were fixed in how they were assessed, however we could pick a relevant topic that interested us to write about. This allowed me to explore new topics in sustainability that I had never really thought or knew much about.
Hands-on experience
We completed a placement during the course [and] I found this very useful as a lot of sustainability jobs I had seen required some sort of experience. The placement provided an opportunity to gain experience in a sector I was interested in. I was very fortunate to be able to join the Fens East Peat Partnership, part of the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, for my placement. I found out about the partnership through researching peatlands for a course module. I thoroughly enjoyed the placement and it helped me realise what I wanted to do next.
A meaningful career
Since completing the MSc, I have moved sectors and now work within the nature conservation sector. The course helped me realise my interests and led me to my new job as a Project Support Officer, working for the Fens East Peat Partnership, where I did my placement. I enjoy the varied work and feel a sense of fulfillment that my work is contributing towards peatland restoration in the Fens, and I am able to use the knowledge and skills gained from the MSc.
Personal growth and development
I have also developed as a person and have grown in confidence. I met some amazing people on the course and made some great friends, who I feel very lucky to have shared the experience with. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the MSc created and the experiences I had.