How online postgraduate study helped my career

How has studying the Graduate Diploma of Applied Corporate Governance and Risk Management helped you in your career?

I found the Graduate Diploma of Applied Corporate Governance and Risk Management subjects extremely relevant to both the role I had when I started studying and a future role. I started a new consulting job two months ago after nearly ten years in financial services. The knowledge gained through the graduate diploma is already helping me to provide better services and value to my clients.

How important are the globally recognised credentials of the course?

Following COVID-19, the world is working more remote and flexibly than ever before. Since moving to a big four consulting firm, having globally recognised credentials presents opportunities for me to work with global clients or on international assignments.

Why did you choose to study with Governance Institute?

I chose to study with Governance Institute of Australia because of its reputation, professional networks and available resources. A few people from my organisation had completed the short courses and I wanted to complete formal education to complement my experience. I was looking for a postgraduate course in risk management and found the Governance Institute’s graduate diploma had the perfect mix of subjects, delivery method and postnominal recognition.

What was your experience with online learning? How did you manage the juggle of work and personal life with study?

If you’re like me and haven’t studied since you were at university, it’s a bit of an adjustment! I elected to study part-time so I could balance work and still have a personal life. Because the courses are offered 100 per cent online and recorded, there’s a lot of flexibility for people juggling everyday life. There’s also the ability to take a break and come back if life gets in the way.

What surprised you most about online learning?

I really enjoyed the quality of lecturers and the ability to connect with other students through virtual study groups or LinkedIn. The education staff are really understanding and supportive if there are system or technical issues during key assessment periods.

Is postgraduate study a future career investment or have you used the learnings immediately?

Definitely a bit of both. I’ve used some of the learnings immediately on the job through my work as a governance, risk and compliance consultant. As a future career investment, I see the course being a critical foundation to helping me advance my career and become a board member one day. I’ve also been able to connect with other governance professionals and officially commenced a Governance Institute Emerging Governance Professionals Interest Group where we’ll bring people together for events and opportunities to invest in their personal development.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is interested in solidifying their experience with a formal qualification in risk and governance. The lecturers bring a wealth of industry knowledge and real-world examples. The Governance Institute Graduate Diploma of Applied Corporate Governance and Risk Management has certainly enhanced my career and professional networks. I hope it can do that for you too!

Applications for postgraduate study are now open.

Kirsty Wright is a Brand Ambassador of Governance Institute of Australia.