Flexible learning helps Canadian archivist achieve postgraduate ambitions

A Canadian archivist who balanced full-time work, family commitments and postgraduate study from more than 4,500 miles away is celebrating graduating from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) this summer.

As well as completing his Master of Research (MRes) in Religious Experience, Matthew has been recognised for his outstanding academic achievement by receiving the Allen Talbot Prize in Religious Studies.

Matthew Tooley, from Victoria, British Columbia, has completed a Master of Research (MRes) in Religious Experience through UWTSD’s distance learning programme. He travelled to Wales with his wife to attend his graduation ceremony after four years of study.

Matthew, who now works as an archivist for a First Nation organisation in Canada, says the flexibility of studying online made it possible to pursue a postgraduate degree while maintaining his career and family responsibilities.

“I began the course just as COVID was winding down, so studying online was the ideal option,” he said.

“As a mature student, I already had a full life with work, a house, a wife and elderly parents. Relocating simply wasn’t realistic. UWTSD offered exactly what I was looking for; a research master’s that matched my interests and allowed me to continue with my life in Canada.”

Matthew chose UWTSD after researching online programmes and was particularly drawn to the opportunity to work with Professor Bettina Schmidt, whose books he already owned.

“I applied to exactly one university,” he said. “I didn’t simply decide to do a master’s. I chose this specific degree with this specific professor.”

His research explored religious experiences in which participants believe they have had communicative encounters with other-than-human entities, a highly specialised area within the study of religion.

Reflecting on his time at UWTSD, Matthew said one of the highlights was becoming part of a community of researchers despite studying remotely.

“Professor Schmidt brings together students from across the programme, regardless of what stage they’re at. Meeting other people working in such a niche field has been incredibly encouraging. It reminds you that you’re not undertaking this journey alone, and it creates lasting academic and personal connections.”

Since beginning his studies, Matthew has changed careers and now works as an archivist, a move he says was made possible in part by pursuing a research master’s.

“I didn’t start the degree with a career change in mind, but it opened doors I hadn’t expected. In my part of Canada, employers often place significant value on a Master by Research. The research skills I developed helped me secure my current position, and the qualification has given me access to further career opportunities with greater prospects for progression.”

He added that studying had also transformed his confidence.

“Five years ago, pursuing a PhD would have seemed completely out of reach. Now it’s something I’m seriously considering. The degree has changed how I think, how I research and what I believe is possible professionally.”

Professor Bettina Schmidt, Professor in the Study of Religions and Anthropology of Religion at UWTSD and Matthew’s supervisor, praised his commitment throughout the programme.

“It is particularly fitting that Matthew’s achievements have been recognised through the award of the Allen Talbot Prize in Religious Studies.  Matthew has been an outstanding student. Studying for a research degree while working full-time and managing family commitments requires exceptional commitment, discipline and curiosity, and he demonstrated all of those qualities throughout his studies.

“His research tackles a fascinating and challenging area of religious experience with thoughtfulness and academic rigour. It has been a pleasure to supervise him, and it is especially rewarding to see how the skills he developed during his MRes have already contributed to a successful new career. We are delighted to celebrate his achievements as he graduates.”

Matthew said he would readily recommend UWTSD to other prospective students.

“I found both my supervisor and the department incredibly supportive and approachable. The flexibility of the programme, combined with the quality of the academic support, made it possible for me to achieve something that simply wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.”

Further Information

Arwel Lloyd

Principal PR and Communications Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email:  arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467076