Three students from counties Tyrone and Fermanagh have completed a part-time business degree at South West College, gaining a qualification that is already opening doors to career advancement.

The students, Margaret McCrory of Gortin, Rebecca Galbraith of Fintona, and Nick Collen of Enniskillen, studied for a BSc (Hons) in Business Studies at the college’s Erne Campus. They now look ahead to summer graduation and promotions.

Each followed a flexible higher education pathway offered by the college in partnership with Ulster University. They first completed a Foundation Degree in Business Management at campuses in Enniskillen, Omagh or Dungannon, then progressed to the top-up degree. The programme was available part-time or as a Higher Level Apprenticeship.

McCrory returned to education after a 10-year break. She said studying locally allowed her to continue working full-time and be present for her family. She noted the affordable fees and the removal of financial pressure often associated with university. She now expects to seek promotional opportunities with her employer, the Education Authority.

Galbraith said a work placement built her confidence and pushed her to develop public speaking skills. Staying close to home helped her further her career without relocating.

Collen described the supportive lecturers and small class sizes as beneficial. He recommended the pathway for its affordability and the guidance provided.

Stephen Crawford, a lecturer in commercial and business services at the college, said the graduates were prepared for management-level posts across business organisations in Northern Ireland and further afield.