Intelligent Data Centres Issue 17 | Page 61

Presented by Intelligent Education Partner and Management’ module, learners will explore themes in the data centre sector and gain an in-depth understanding of issues that are important to them. Finally, learners will put all of their learning over the three years into practice by developing and delivering a major project (‘dissertation’ or ‘thesis’). The program objectives The main objectives from the Masters degree program are to combine the existing skills and knowledge the learners already gained from their career within the data centre sector, with the new academic learning surrounding business leadership and management within a data centre environment. On completion of the Masters program, learners will gain a Masters degree in Data Centre Leadership and Management (MA), a level 7 qualification. They will also be able to use the MA post-nominal letters after their name as well as have access to their unique Masters degree in Data Centre Leadership and Management (MA) Digital Badge. All graduates will also be invited to the graduation ceremony held in Cambridge, UK. Masters degree target audience The degree is suited to leaders and senior managers working in data centre facilities wishing to form the elite group of worldwide data centre professionals. Duration of the program The Masters degree is a three-year supported online distance learning program via a learning management system providing support, flexibility and guidance to learners every step of the year. On average, learners are expected to commit 7–10 hours of study to the program per week during the trimesters, however, due to the online learning aspect, there is flexibility to work at times most suited to the learner and to fit around work/family life. It is essential to note that the deadlines provided by the university are strict and must be met in order to complete the degree. Distance learning and how it works The online distance learning via CNet’s Learning Management System, Moodle, provides flexibility and complete interaction every step of the way. All of the online discussions (video, skype, etc.) are recorded and there are bulletin board-style bases for live messages and support. Online learning is mostly asynchronous and therefore learners must make time to interact with the online materials and activities. It is an expectation that learners will actively engage with discussions and online activities. From time to time, guest lectures and live sessions will be available and learners are expected to attend. Every effort is made to schedule the times of live sessions to accommodate global time zones. As distance learners, individuals will need a suitable computer with an Internet connection, together with sufficient IT competence to make effective use of word processing, Internet and email. How learners are supported There is always an opportunity to interact with the module tutor. All learners on the Masters program are supported by the passionate CNet team, the specialist academic staff and industry specialists. All are on hand to provide guidance, support and mentoring throughout the program to enrich the learning experience. Exam queries There are no exams with the Masters degree program. All of the assessments have been carefully designed to provide value beyond the program and will usually be based on the learner’s place of work, previous industry experiences or on a business that the learner may already be aware of. How to apply The deadline for 2020 applications is August 14, 2020. CNet considers all applications individually, taking into account each applicant’s experience and qualifications. We encourage individuals to apply if they have experience working in a data centre facility and ideally have at least two years at middle or senior management level in a data centre context. It is advantageous if individuals have a first- or second-class degree from a UK university or equivalent from an overseas university. Those applicants for whom English is not a first language will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by the Higher and Further Education Principal which can take three to five days. If successful, individuals will be notified by email and sent an acceptance form. Talk to a tutor/graduate CNet has recently introduced an option for prospective learners to have the opportunities to ‘Talk to a Tutor’ and ‘Talk to a Graduate’. This provides those who are interested in the program with the chance to speak directly to graduates who have completed the program, to learn more about their personal experiences or to talk directly to a tutor from the Masters degree who can answer any specific queries relating to program content and eligibility. To find out more, email mastersdegree@ cnet-training.com and they will be able to arrange a suitable date and time to speak with a graduate/tutor. ◊ www.intelligentdatacentres.com Issue 17 61