Explore Declan’s journey as he pursues an MSc in Digital Transformation while balancing a fast-paced career and family life. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?

Hi! My name is Declan, and I’m a current student on the online MSc Digital Transformation programme. I currently work in the education sector within a fast-paced sales team.

My previous roles have included B2B and B2C sales and project management roles across sectors such as automotive, energy and industrials, biotech, and pharma.

Why did you choose to study online with Hull?

I found the programme stood out in terms of the breadth of module topics; Digital Transformation is such a broad subject, and I was very keen on finding a programme that didn’t just focus on one specific area or industry.

Also, as a father to three young children (2, 4, and 6), I needed a programme that was going to benefit my career development but at the same time ensuring complete flexibility. I found the programme really met all my needs from both a personal and professional development perspective.

What motivated you to study this course at master’s level? 

I’ve wanted to do a level 7 programme for a long time, and my plans involve a PhD or DBA programme afterwards. I felt that I reached a point in my career where I wanted to take the knowledge that I had gained and enhance it with the understanding of future developments in technology and how they could effect positive change in my profession.

I also wanted to be a role model for my children, showing them the importance education and continually developing yourself.

What are networking opportunities like for online students? 

The weekly webinars for me created a fantastic networking opportunity. With such an international cohort, I now regularly connect with my peers in several countries such as the UK, Italy, Greece, and UAE.

For me this was extremely important to understand the digital business approaches of those in different industries and geographies.

How do you balance work, study and socialising? 

I think that this is something that a lot of prospective students will be worrying about. I will testify to the fact that it is not easy, but with planning, perseverance, and effective time management, it slots nicely into my weekly routine. I know from the first day of the module when my assignments are, so I can forward-plan to make sure I dedicate the right amount of time to the module.

Have you been able to apply what you’re learning within your current job? 

I think one of the greatest benefits of this programme is the practical application of theory to your current role from day one. In my current module, I’m working through a selection of case studies, analysing business decisions and the selected company’s stance on digital transformation.

Not only do I now understand the theory, but how different companies have approached sustainably business strategies using technology. This has made me challenge more processes internally, evidencing how we could make positive changes based on the success of others businesses.

How has the course helped you with your career so far? 

Within the first four months of study, I was able to demonstrate greater abilities in information management and visualisation through the creation of dashboards and reports. I believe this played a key role in me being successfully offered a six-month secondment as a Team Leader.

This has been a highlight of my career and gave me a great amount of insight in to managing within a fast-paced sales environment.

Would you describe the course as a good investment? 

100%. As a 31-year-old professional, I feel that taking on this journey earlier in my career will have a great impact on my future success. The cost was a no-brainer.  

Who do you think will benefit most from this course?

I think that I will benefit from this programme the most by becoming a greater asset to my company, which in turn will only support in my career progression.

My longer-term goals involve consulting for businesses, specifically focussing on technological change within their sales teams.

I aim to understand the most efficient ways to implement new processes and technology, and create processes with the most efficient tools for conversion. I feel that this programme will help me realise these goals.

Thank you to Declan for sharing your experience of studying Digital Transformation online!

Gain the confidence to choose the right technology to transform how your organisation operates with the Hull Online MSc in Digital Transformation. Study 100% online and part-time: