MP first student in new Master's Degree

Member for Maryborough Chris Foley has enrolled to become the first student in a new Master of Professional Studies degree at the University of Southern Queensland Fraser Coast.

Becoming a master's student won't interrupt his work – in fact Mr Foley expects his study to help his work as a parliamentarian.

'This will help me to create a whole lot of efficiencies in the workplace by reviewing the systems we use to manage the needs of the electorate,' he said.

'When you look at your work from a study perspective, it tends to crystallize it for you.'

Mr Foley will be joined by up to 19 other students taking part in the inaugural master's degree, starting in March.

The Master of Professional Studies was developed at USQ Fraser Coast as a higher degree program designed for people in full-time employment. Day-to-day tasks in the workplace form the basis of the study.

USQ Fraser Coast Provost Professor Ken Stott, who will be tutoring Mr Foley, said people might wonder how one of the busiest people in Queensland could fit a master's degree into his schedule.

'Because this unusual program uniquely combines full-time work with study, he is able to do both – better,' Prof Stott said.

'The degree is ideal for busy professionals. If they are busy at work, it means they have plenty of material for the study.

'Also, experienced professionals like Chris Foley are likely to get plenty of recognition for their previous experience, and that means a shorter time to complete the degree.'

Mr Foley has two very different sides to his professional life – political and pastoral. He is a minister of religion, as well as a trained pilot, and owner of a martial arts school.

He said he had achieved a lot over the years by sacrificing television. And now he said his ‘limited' television viewing time would become none – except for the news.

He said he would probably use his political life as the focus for his study.

'The very nature of my job as a parliamentarian means I research issues all day," he said. "And being a politician means I am constantly reading and studying.

'I set out a long time ago to do a masters degree. I started a degree with USQ (about 12 years ago) but my son was killed in an accident and my family needed me more than I needed to study.'

Prof Stott welcomed Mr Foley's involvement.

'It is important that our leaders set the right example in terms of lifelong learning,' he said.

"Mr Foley's commitment to his work and study is commendable, and I would be delighted if he eventually moves from this to a doctoral degree.'

The Master of Professional Studies was launched by the Head of International Development at the National Centre for Work-Based Learning Partnerships at Middlesex University, London, Dr Jenny Naish, at USQ Fraser Coast on February 6.

Dr Naish is in charge of staff training for the new degree.

Media Contact: Katrina Corcoran, USQ Fraser Coast Media Contact Phone: 07 4120 616