GCU launches student-led Risk Clinic

GCU has launched a Risk Clinic offering free risk management information to real-world clients and invaluable practical experience to students.

The student-led initiative aims to widen access to risk knowledge and understanding for businesses in Glasgow and the surrounding areas.

Run initially by postgraduate students and supervised by staff members and risk practitioners, the clinic follows similar GCU outreach projects in law and cyber security.

Jon McNeill, GCU Risk Clinic's director, said: “As the clinic develops it will allow students to apply the theory of risk management to real-world problem-solving.

"We anticipate that this will equip our graduates with a unique source of competitive advantage as they will be able to say that they worked on a project for a client and put their studies to tangible use."

A successful trial project has resulted in the students producing risk register templates and guidance to the University's Community and Public Engagement team, with professional guidance provided by Allan Barr, of Tesco Bank, and Graham Nicol, of Gleeds.

Dr Josephine Adekola took the initial steps to set up the Clinic with students on GCU's MSc Risk Management.

Staff will now formally establish the Clinic and look to integrate it into the risk management curriculum.

Jon McNeill added: “Our risk degrees recognise the importance of embedding practitioner experience.

"The risk team look forward to expanding the clinic in the coming years and extending the breadth of opportunities it provides."