Nic Vipond
“The teaching staff are very inspiring. I've found many opportunities to pursue my own research interests within the confines of the rehabilitation qualification which was what I wanted,” Nic says.
Nic Vipond trained as a physiotherapist, and went on to gain further qualifications as a New Zealand Registered Acupuncturist and a Registered Hand Therapist. She chose to enroll in the Wellington School of Medicine and Health Sciences Masters degree in rehabilitation (MHealSc endorsed in Rehabilitation) because it meant less travel and time away from home while she was studying.
Although she worked full-time throughout her study, Nic found it easy to fit in the course requirements.
“It was easy to fit in schedule wise as audio conferences were out of normal work hours for me. Attending the stats course and a research paper done through the GP practice department did require a few hours off work, but generally it was worth it,” Nic says.
Her study has changed her working life in a number of ways.
“I'm finding there are more opportunities with respect to work and learning available and I have the confidence to explore more academic work-related pursuits.
“With this qualification, there is an opportunity to consider overseas work as previously diploma physiotherapists were excluded from work in many countries. Many jobs require more than a diploma or bachelor's degree so this broadens all opportunities for me,” Nic says.
She enjoyed the “easy access to far superior minds than my own with respect to professional and academic support and encouragement”.
Nic has since gone on following her Masters studies with Otago to work at ACC in the Research Unit in evidence based health. She currently works in the ACC National Serious Injury Service as Information and Business Improvements Programme Manager.