In an exclusive interview with Dhaka Tribune, Study Group CEO Ian Crichton discusses the importance of International Year One and Two programs for Bangladeshi students, entry requirements, and start dates. He emphasizes Study Group's global education focus, outlines current and future projects that provide support for students.
Where are your International Year One or Two programs available for Bangladeshi students this year?
Most of our universities offer IY1 or IY2 courses now. IY2 is conducted in Scotland, as Scotland's degree programs are typically four years long. IY2 allows students to enter the third year of study, while IY1 lets them enter the second year. These courses are highly beneficial for anyone considering a degree, provided they have good qualifications and are prepared to put in the work. These programs offer smaller class sizes, extensive support, and are often more cost-effective compared to traditional university education. They provide a great pathway for accessing university education, especially for international students like those from Bangladesh.
What are the start dates and entry requirements for International Year One/Two programs?
Entry requirements vary by university, so we can provide those separately for each institution. However, the core entry dates are in September and January. September is the primary intake period for UK universities, offering the advantage of aligning with the start of the academic year and Freshers Week activities. January intake is also available but may not offer the same level of immersion into campus life. Additionally, there are entry points in between, with November being notable for offering pre-sessional English courses to help students acclimate before starting their main program in January.
How do you leverage your international career and executive education to lead Study Group as a global leader in international education and employability?
My extensive international experience, including education at institutions like INSEAD, Harvard, and Oxford, coupled with working across 50 countries, has provided valuable insights into the importance of diversity and collaboration in the 21st century. At Study Group, we focus on ensuring students receive a top-quality education and gain valuable employability skills. My background in various industries, including business, healthcare, and IT, allows me to bring a unique perspective on aligning education with real-world needs. Moreover, I prioritize customer service and student success, which ultimately drives the commercial success of our business.
What are the current and future projects and initiatives that Study Group is working on?
Our primary focus is on enhancing the student experience and ensuring high-quality teaching. We continually invest in our systems and processes to streamline admissions and provide comprehensive support to our students. Looking ahead, we aim to expand our partnerships with universities globally, particularly in emerging markets, to offer more diverse educational opportunities. Additionally, we're exploring digital learning solutions to cater to the preferences of younger generations. We also plan to establish foundation pathways closer to students' home countries, reducing costs and easing the transition to studying abroad.
What is Study Group’s plan for Bangladesh as a key market, and what are the challenges and opportunities you face in this region?
Bangladesh is a growing market with immense potential. However, we are mindful of challenges such as ensuring the integrity of student recruitment processes and combating organized criminal activities related to migration. Our goal is to provide high-quality education that empowers Bangladeshi students to succeed globally while also contributing to their home country's development. We see opportunities for collaboration with Bangladeshi universities and are committed to increasing access to education for all segments of the population.
