30 June 2004

Working students graduate today

Photo opportunity: after graduation ceremony today, Press Stand, Caird Hall, Dundee

Two students are graduating from the University of Dundee today after completing their degrees on a part-time basis. Lesley Denby and James Wallace are the first students to graduate from this programme, a General MA in Arts and Social Science and both students work full time.

Lesley Denby is a principal teacher in learning support at Braeview academy and concentrated on philosophy and literature models. Lesley has been supported financially by Dundee City Council.

James Wallace will also pick up his degree this afternoon. James, who is a social worker in Aberdeen, specialised in History and Scottish Cultural Studies. James has had to make an enormous commitment including extensive travel between Aberdeen and Dundee to attend his evening classes.

Lily Forester, Co-ordinator & Adviser of Studies for Part-Time Degrees, Learning and Teaching said, "We are delighted to see Lesley and James graduate today. They really are an example to anyone who is interested in studying but thought it was impossible because of work and family commitments. They have shown that with determination it is possible to study and work and reap the benefits of both."

By Angela Durcan, Press Officer 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, a.durcan@dundee.ac.uk