Justin has the formula for success

A close up photo of Medical Health Profession student Justin

Justin is set on science after swaping logistics for medical research

PhD student Justin Coyne is set for scientific success after completing a Medical Health Professions Access to Higher Education (HE) course at UCEN Manchester.

The 40-year-old swapped a job in logistics to study the access course, which he passed with a Distinction. He is now two years into a four year PhD in Molecular biology and RNA therapeutics at the University of Sheffield.

Justin said: “I was looking for a way to gain relevant qualifications to enable me to study Biology at University as a second career after wanting a change from the logistics industry. The Access course offered a great structure and foundation for the rigours of undergraduate study. 

“After completing the Access course, I was offered a place at The University of Manchester to study BSc Hons Molecular Biology, where I obtained a 2:1. I then studied for a MSc in Human Molecular genetics at The University of Sheffield, which I passed with a Merit. This enabled me to apply and study a PhD in Molecular biology and RNA therapeutics at the University of Sheffield.”

Justin’s career goal is to be a Senior Research scientist (mRNA Engineering and RNA therapeutics), and admits studying on the Access course prepared him for the challenges of academia, while his tutors provided the right level of support and guidance.

He said: “I enjoyed the clear and concise lessons. They were set out in a lecture style where notes were handed out and we were taught each concept, revised the concepts and were examined on them. This style of learning was reminiscent of University modules. 

“My tutors were phenomenal. They were able to guide me through the daunting process of applying to prospective universities to study and taught me time management as well as meticulous revision and study practices. This, in particular, gave me an advantage once I was at University to revise in a logical and structured way to maximise exam performance.

I have recommended UCEN Manchester to many people who have asked about heading back to study as a mature student, and about my recommendations for success.

Find your future with UCEN Manchester and start your study with us this January.