Students celebrate achievement thanks to free online learning

Students who have taken advantage of free online training offered by Teesside University say it has supported their studies while boosting their career prospects.

Success Imakuh, Thomas McLean-Unthank and Courtney Hetland are among a growing number of Teesside University students who are taking up the opportunity to gain free certification in a range of Microsoft and Adobe applications.

The Digital Enablement team (ITDS) at Teesside University offer a certifications scheme which offers Adobe and Microsoft training in partnership with Prodigy Learning to enhance digital skills and improve employability.

The training forms part of Teesside University’s award-winning Future Facing Learning initiative which seeks to digitally empower students and staff through embracing cutting-edge digital technology. Teesside was the first European higher education institution to become an Adobe Creative Campus in recognition of its commitment to promoting digital literacy across all courses and areas of study. Success, 26, from Nigeria, completed the Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals, Microsoft Certified Educator, Microsoft 365 Certified, Microsoft Security, Compliance and Identity Fundamentals.

He is completing the MSc Cybersecurity (With Advanced Practice) in the University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies. Success said: “I was keen to complete the Microsoft courses as I am interested in cloud security, so it was essential to have my skillset validated by an industry leader in providing cloud services.

“The learning was seamless, completely online and totally free, which allows students to learn at their own pace. The knowledge gained from these courses has helped to build upon the solid foundation of my cybersecurity career.” Success added: “I choose to study cybersecurity at Teesside due to the University’s welcoming and diverse community. Teesside has an excellent cybersecurity programme and is at the cutting centre of technology. I also welcomed the opportunity to take up a placement year to gain first-hand experience of work, which bridges any gap between classroom theories and industry.”

Thomas, 22, from Marske, who is studying BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration in the University’s School of Arts & Creative Industries, completed the Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects and Adobe Illustrator. He was also awarded the Visual Design Badge for proficiency in multiple programmes.

He said: “The Adobe examinations presented an opportunity for development in the software I use within my creative course. I chose those specific examinations as they covered a variety of different key design processes. Whether I need to design video outputs, poster work, branding or illustrations, these applications allow for versatility in workflow. “I did most of my learning through use of the applications during my studies at Teesside University. My work has required many different outputs, with the applications fuelling that creativity.”

He added: “Completing these qualifications will help my career in the creative field a lot. I predominantly do illustration, but I am mainly multi-disciplinary. These exams provide evidence that I can use the software to a standard of technical professional output, something that will highly be regarded in the creative industry.” Thomas, who has childhood memories of reading classic books such as Winnie the Pooh and Beatrix Potter, added: “These stories resonated with me, especially the nostalgia tied in with the beautiful illustrations. I aspire to create a book which can inspire generations and cultivate it into classic storybook which will resonate with children in years to come.”

Courtney Hetland, also a BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration student, completed the Adobe Certified Professional Graphic Design & Illustration using Adobe Illustrator.

Courtney, 28, from Stavanger in Norway, said: “The Adobe certification was relevant to my field of work. I was able to study online, using the study guides to prepare for the exam. “I found I learned aspects about the software such as tools that I hadn’t used as much before. Completing the accreditation gives legitimacy to my skillset when it comes to graphic design.”

Jonathan Eaton, Director of Student Learning and Academic Registrar, Student Learning & Academic Registry, said: “We offer a wide range of courses to digitally empower students by enabling them to embrace cutting edge digital technology through learning which will equip them with vital creative and technical skills and prepare them on the journey towards their chosen career path.”

Teesside University students and staff can learn more about gaining Microsoft and Adobe certifications here https://extra.tees.ac.uk/HelpCentre/Pages/FreeCerts.aspx

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