Rising numbers and satisfied students at University College
27 Feb 2013
The University College for Interdisciplinary Learning is celebrating success halfway through its first year, thanks to steadily increasing student numbers and excellent student feedback.
The College opened in October 2012 to enable students to explore subjects beyond the boundaries of their degree programme. By taking a step away from their core subject areas, they can meet new people and investigate new disciplines and ideas.
The idea first arose during a review of undergraduate education, which led to the development of a concept called ‘The Manchester Matrix’ - a combination of attributes which Manchester graduates should have acquired by the end of their time here. These attributes include skills like critical thinking and global citizenship – all skills much valued by employers looking to recruit the very best graduates.
The College's Semester 1 unit survey results saw most units scoring an overall rating of more than 4 out of 5, with students saying:
“I can honestly say it is the best course that I have studied in my degree so far,” for the Leadership of Learning course.
“From the training sessions down to the placement, I cannot stress enough how much this unit has helped me to gain an insight into my future career. It’s such a great course.” (Leadership of Learning)
“I got to see a different side of the world.” (Introduction to British Sign Language)
“Really value the opportunity to do something not strictly related to my degree.” (Essential Enterprise)
“It made me think about business differently.” (Essential Enterprise)
“I developed the ability to look at concepts in a different way and to research in a way that’s very different from my major.” (Science and the Humanities: Bridging the Two Cultures)
“Encouraged creativity and thinking.” (Science and the Humanities: Bridging the Two Cultures)
The College Teaching and Learning Panel, with representatives from across the University, recently approved new units for 2013-14 including topics such as security, sustainability and the cities of tomorrow, as well as a unit on intercultural communication which will contribute to a new Manchester Global Award.
More information on the full course portfolio for 2013-14 will be circulated to schools in the next few weeks and will be available on the College website:
If your School would like more information on the College, to discuss how College units might work in your programmes, or to include the College team in any activities showcasing available free choice units to students, contact: