This is a great moment for the graduates as they will be reaping the rewards of years of commitment, dedication and persistence in completing their various courses. They could use their newfound qualifications to not only find a job, but also seek perks and promotions, and even switch careers and industries.
What if you would like to follow in their footsteps but don’t know where to start?
Maybe you are unsure what programme to take so that you could obtain the kind of job you want or qualify for the kind of career growth you seek.
Most likely, you will have these doubts:
- What if you choose the wrong programme?
- What if it does not teach what you want to learn?
- What if it doesn’t help you get where you want to go?
You might want to consider these factors:
Flexibility
If you want to continue working while studying or if you have family obligations, flexible studying options can help you greatly. Particularly helpful are online study and self-paced learning.
Application to your career
Do you want to formalise what you are already doing, gain skills for advancement, or change careers? What skill sets and knowledge will help you achieve your goal? Look closely at the programme descriptions and course details, and possible career outcomes.
University reputation
Read testimonials and check the website of the university you are considering. Compare their student benefits and price points against other providers.
Alignment with your needs
A checklist can help you decide which programme is right for you. It can include these questions:
- Will the programme allow me to work at the same time?
- Is the programme online or in-person?
- Can I work and continue to earn an income while I study?
- Will I be able to spend time with my family while I study?
- Will I be supported throughout this process of learning?
- Is it within my budget?
- Can I get course credits for past study or work experience?
When you choose the right programme, you set yourself up for success in several ways:
- Enhanced career opportunities: The programme will give you the skills and knowledge that employers want, making it easier for you to get good jobs and career opportunities.
- Personal and professional fulfilment: When you work in a field you love, you will feel happier with your job. When you enjoy what you do, it won’t feel like work.
- Continuous growth and development: Choosing the right programme sets a strong base for continuous learning and career growth. It helps you stay curious, adaptable, and prepared for new challenges throughout your work life.
What Does OUM Offer?
OUM provides open, distance and digital education, making it easy for working adults to work and study at the same time.
Its top priorities are providing accessibility, affordability, and flexibility.
Its motto is “University for All,” so it accepts students through both the traditional route and the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL), which considers your work experience. You can not only gain admission but also shorten your study duration and graduate faster.
Your learning experience will be fully online, from your classes and discussions to your assignments and exams, with online support from tutors, a digital library, and 35 learning centres nationwide.
There are four faculties – Education; Business and Management; Technology and Applied Sciences; and Social Sciences and Humanities.
Together, these faculties offer 55 programmes, one of which might be the one to propel you forward.
You can rest assured that all the programmes are recognised by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency and Public Service Department.
Some are also recognised by various professional bodies, which will add to your credibility and worth as an employable graduate. For example, these programmes – Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, Master of Management, Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Management – are recognised by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), which has a global network of business leaders and educators. OUM students enjoy free CMI membership, granting them access to valuable resources for assignments and projects, networking opportunities, mentoring by industry experts, and participation in enriching events and activities.
Meanwhile, four programmes – the Master of Quality Management, Master of Facility Management, Bachelor of Science in Project and Facility Management, and Bachelor of Manufacturing Management – come with SIRIM certification.
In sum, by carefully considering factors like programme flexibility, career relevance, university reputation, and personal needs, you can find the perfect fit that will propel you towards success.
OUM’s commitment to providing quality education and support can help you achieve your aspirations and embark on a rewarding journey of learning and growth.
To find out about OUM programmes, visit www.oum.edu.my, call 03-7801 2000 or write to enquiries@oum.edu.my.
– The Star: Education Guide Sept 2024
