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The Panasonic Trust Fellowships
Niall Moran – MSc Transport Planning & Engineering,
Edinburgh Napier University
 In
2007, I decided to enquire about the possibility of undertaking a Master’s
degree in Transport Planning and Engineering. I had originally intended to
study by distance learning but after discussions with the course leader I
chose to study on a part-time basis. My employer, Perth & Kinross Council,
agreed to grant me day release to attend the taught modules once a week
during term time, and also agreed to fund 50% of the course fees. I was
successful in getting financial assistance from the Panasonic Trust for the
remainder.
The course was both enjoyable and challenging, and
gave me the opportunity to gain a much wider knowledge of transport planning
and engineering. It also gave me a valuable insight into the real challenges
that exist in the transport sector today, especially in terms of
sustainability. Increasing my knowledge and improving my analytical and
report writing skills also improved my self confidence and enabled me to
offer a wider range of skills to my employer.
The biggest challenge for me during the course was
completing my dissertation, entitled ‘Impact and Future of Regional
Transport Partnerships in Scotland’. This was done in my own time and it
proved a significant challenge to juggle the demands of work, home life and
starting a family! However, it was all worth the effort when in October 2010
I graduated with my MSc.
My immediate plans are to gain as much practical
experience in my current role at Perth & Kinross Council allows and I am
looking forward to making a difference to the transport sector in Scotland.
I am very grateful to the Panasonic Trust for their assistance in enabling
me to achieve my degree.
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