Those wanting to do the BPIF MSc in Management course can apply to have a significant amount of the fees paid via a £6000 bursary from The Stationers' Foundation, funded by The Printing Charity.
The foundation - the charitable arm of The Stationers' Company - is offering the postgraduate bursary scheme to either a single student or to be shared between several students for whom funding would be a barrier to its undertaking.
The MSc, run in partnership with the Management Development Centre (MDC), is aimed at those in print with at least five-years' experience in a management role, and with full membership of a professional institute wanting to take their leadership skills to the next level. As the natural next step after undertaking the BPIF Level 5 Leadership and Management Course, it usually costs £6340 + VAT to complete.
The course, which can be completed in as little as 12 months, is a fast-track top up Masters designed to provide minimal disruption to the working week. Alongside a dissertation and two residential weekends, students are supported through the MDC's online support group.
BPIF programme director, Ursula Daly, said: "The BPIF are delighted about this continued funding opportunity in collaboration with the Stationers' Foundation and The Printing Charity. This is about enabling the great people in our industry to reach their full potential, and the MSc helps us to do just that. It's a stimulating course which encourages a whole new way of thinking for those already in management positions, while building on skills already learned in their careers. I'd encourage anyone thinking of doing the course to apply for the bursary if finance is in any way a barrier."
The funding, which also considers the academic potential of applicants, is available for the academic year starting in October 2021. The application form should be submitted by Friday 21 May 2021. Applications must be supported by two references, one academic and one personal from someone of standing who can support the financial statements made in the application. Applicants must hold a conditional or unconditional offer for the Masters programme at the time of application. The candidate should send Applications via email to ursula.daly@bpif.org.uk.
Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to interview at Stationers' Hall in London 21-28 June. Successful recipients of the funding will also have the opportunity to be mentored by an appropriate Stationers' Company member. On successful completion of their Masters programme the award winners will be presented with the Freedom of the Stationers’ Company and it is expected that they will participate in the life of the Company. Dispensation for payment of the annual membership fee will be given for the following three years.