Why M815? And why now?

Why choose to study M815 (Project Management)?

• Because it's an optional module for my chosen masters
• Because it offers a chance for some academic theory, rigour and depth to supplement my practical work experience
• Because it offered the opportunity to learn about how project management approaches have been applied in types of projects I've not been involved in before eg construction
• Because I wanted to broaden my horizons and extend my learning beyond my own experience

Why choose to study the module now?

Because I'm in the middle of my masters so the question would more appropriately be why did I choose to study for a masters now?
I didn't deliberately set out to study for a masters. Two years ago I went through a procurement exercise where I (as an SME) was bidding to get onto a framework contract for a large company.  One of the questions my company was asked was about training and CPD for staff (my company had 2 employees at the time) and I was horrified (and surprised) to realise that I hadn't completed any formal training or education for a number of years.  I had learned lots through all my interim assignments and projects but for that procurement exercise I lost 'points' as there was no evidence of formal learning for staff.
At the same time one of my clients was sent on a leadership development course by her employer - I had enjoyed my experience on such courses when in employment so started to look for something for myself.  De nada.    Lots of adverts for in house courses - but not open.  But lots of adverts for open leadership coaching courses which is not what I was looking for.  And as I searched and talked to people I started to think about something more formally academic - eventually finding the OU module on Systemic Change and through that the MSc Systems Thinking in Practice.