Metropolitan Police officer goes the distance to achieve degree

Tuesday, 17 July, 2012

Metropolitan Police officer, David Smart (44) proves it's never to late to gain a degree, graduating from Robert Gordon University's (RGU) Aberdeen Business School with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) on Wednesday 11 July at 2.30pm, after completing the degree part-time via distance learning.

David, who lives in South London, is a serving police officer with the Metropolitan Police Service and was fortunate enough to have his studies at RGU sponsored by the Home Office as part of the High Potential Development Scheme (HPDS).

The HPDS is a five year programme that uses a range of innovative approaches to challenge and equip future leaders. Participants are required to demonstrate their desire, commitment and the potential to reach senior officer levels. As a member of the Police HPDS, David was required to study at Masters level and chose RGU's MPA as it offered the flexibility of distance learning as well as content relevant to his role in the public sector.

David applied to RGU with no previous undergraduate degree, however entry to the course was granted as the Business School took his professional experience into account, including the promotion exams that he'd taken during his police service.

RGU's MPA offers an integrated approach to the study of public policy and management. It focuses on the requirements of those in management or policy roles within local, national and international public service organisations.

David said: "Enrolling in the MPA through RGU was a great opportunity as I didn't go to university before joining the police. The flexibility of distance learning really suited my lifestyle, as it enabled me to balance studying with the demands of my family and my work at New Scotland Yard.

"Embarking on a degree when you have so many other life commitments is daunting but RGU were truly flexible, allowing me to take a year out during a busy period at work when I had been promoted to Chief Inspector, before completing my dissertation.

"The course was hard going at times but worth it. Now I've qualified it will add significantly to my CV and career prospects. I am planning to take further promotions in the police service and my immediate ambition is to become a Superintendent."

Issued by:

Katie Begg
Communications Officer | Aberdeen Business School
Robert Gordon University
Schoolhill
Aberdeen
AB10 1FR
Tel: 01224 262144
Email: k.begg@rgu.ac.uk

Go to Home Page