What is Split program?

Split program is actually a program whereby one spend half of the time at the host University and the other half in the local university. One of the reason is to save cost; rather than spending on one person, they can send 4 people to study abroad. An analogy for this, a big piece of cake, being shared by lots of people. Why I opt for this Split program? Simply because I don't want to 'salam agong' for my PhD. Well, in actual fact, I've had my degree from US, my masters from the UK and why not Phd also from UK eh?

As a promotional activity, this is what I comment on a recent interview with the International Office here.
Programme of Study: PhD Information Technology
Entry Date: 4 May, 2007
Expected Completion Date: May 2010
Previous School/University:
Linfield College, McMinnville, Oregon, USA (for first degree), Staffordshire University (for Masters)
Why did you choose to study at Nottingham?
When I applied online, the feedback was so fast; it really was a smooth application process. The staff were very helpful and I have no problem in applying to the university.
What do you like most about the University?
The campuses look beautiful, the environment is warm and friendly, the weather is not so extreme, the library facilities are great and most importantly the supervisor is very helpful and understanding.
What do you enjoy about your course?
I enjoy discovering what I have learned in my school days being put into practice, for example, in the old days, the purpose of the mathematical calculation is simply to get the solution and to score well in the exam. I now discover the actual application of what I have learned.
Outside of your studies, what else have you been involved in at the University?
Not much involvement in the University, but I observe the education system here in the UK as I have three kids who are schooling here at the moment.
What tips would you give to other students looking to study at Nottingham/What advice would you offer to prospective (MNDP) students?
Tips for prospective students, in the plan of studies, since the government sponsors 18 months of stay here in Nottingham (with 3 times flight to and fro), spend at least the first full year here because the initial set up cost was quite high. For those with growing up kids, let them experience the education system here. Hopefully they could gain the fundamental of English and be able to survive in school in Malaysia as the government recently change the policy of teaching math and science in English.

My personal view of split program, it's a program to split your family apart. I'm with my 3 younger kids here in the UK, and my husband is in Malaysia with my 2 elder kids who will be taking their UPSR and PMR this year. They will be joining us in end of October. For that, I salute my husband for his sacrifice of taking no pay leave to be with us here. In the meantime, thanks to the technology, with the Yahoo messenger, we are able to communicate and see each other through webcam.