EDUCATION leaders gathered at the University of Stirling to showcase a Scotland-wide masters programme.

The 'Making the Most of Masters' (MMM) scheme uses work placements as an alternative to a traditional academic dissertation – to date, nearly 1,500 students from nine Scottish universities took part in work-based projects since it launched in 2011.

Rosemary Allford, MMM project manager at the University of Stirling, said: “Employers are increasingly looking for postgraduate students that have experience applying research in the real world.

“We want to support skilled postgraduates to contribute directly to research and enterprise in Scotland’s economy.

“Strong university-industry partnerships will help us take new and innovative steps in masters provision in Scotland.

“This event is to celebrate our success to date and encourage more employers in Scotland to use postgraduate students’ research skills to add value to their business.”

Supported by the Scottish Funding Council and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the programme works with employers across a range of sectors.

One Stirling Uni student was supported by the enterprise to complete his masters in law in 'Corporate Social Responsibility' through the programme.

Bastian Roos worked for a fish-processing company in the north of Scotland, which was looking for feedback on human rights compliance and potential avenues for future activities after experiencing significant growth.

The company facilitated Bastian’s interviews with workers and he gained insight in current human resource and supply chain management challenges and processes. These formed the basis of his dissertation project.

Bastian said: “It was very insightful to see how companies manage human rights in their daily operations and supply chains.

“I had first-hand experience of observing the need for effective communication so that the language of academia and business can work together to progress this important area.

“I feel that this work related project will help me in the articulation of my skills as I progress my future career.”