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Written by James Tippett
You can study a part-time Masters while working full-time, and also work part-time while studying full-time. It's a popular option for students wanting to study while still earning, or to top up any funding you've received. There’s a lot of factors to consider, but both options are doable. How much you’re able to work depends largely on your contact hours.
Balancing a part-time Masters while working full-time is an impressive feat—one that can boost your career and personal development. However, it does require careful planning, discipline, and, ideally, a robust caffeine supply. Whether you’re considering a full-time Masters with part-time work or a part-time Masters while holding down a full-time job, you need to weigh up your options, anticipate the challenges, and find a way to manage your time without losing your mind.
Here, I'll walk you through different Masters study formats, work options, and practical tips to help you strike that elusive balance between work, study, and precious social life.
If you’re tackling a full-time Masters, a part-time job can be a great way to keep the lights on. That said, make sure you fully understand your academic workload before signing up for a job that demands more energy than you have left after lectures.
Worried about how you’ll manage your money during your Masters? Taru shares hers and Rowan's tips for how they managed their finances while studying a Masters.
One of the first things to check is how many contact hours your programme involves. Unlike undergraduate degrees, Masters courses often have fewer formal teaching hours but significantly more independent study.
If your course leans heavily on independent study, overloading yourself with work could lead to a rapid decline in both grades and sanity.
Flexibility is key when choosing part-time work as a Masters student. The best options include:
For many, a part-time Masters is the perfect way to gain qualifications while keeping a stable income. However, this requires serious time management and the ability to function on limited free time (and, again, coffee).
Whether you’re working full-time or part-time during your Masters, you’ll need to develop excellent time management skills to keep on top of your academic and professional commitments. For more information and advice, check out Chantelle’s blog on how she balanced her work with postgraduate study.
If your Masters is related to the industry you’re working in, it’s worth asking your employer if they would be willing to sponsor your postgraduate qualification.
To stay on top of things, consider these strategies:
One of the biggest perks of working while studying is financial stability. Benefits include:
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Potential pitfalls include:
A part-time Masters while working full-time is tough but absolutely doable with the right mindset and planning.
I recommend using all the support networks available to you. Speak honestly to both your university and employer, explain your circumstances and see how they can support you.
In my experience, honesty is the best policy. If you're struggling to find the balance between work and study - let your employer and university know. There's no point struggling alone. Knowing when to accept help can be difficult, but it's always better to get it sooner rather than later.
Above all, don’t forget to enjoy the process (or at least try to). With a bit of strategy and resilience, you can pull it off—and emerge with both a degree and your finances mostly intact.
Yes, but the type of course matters. Part-time, online, or distance learning courses are designed to accommodate working professionals.
Most students working alongside a full-time Masters stick to 10-20 hours per week to avoid burnout.
Some do! It’s worth checking with HR to see if tuition reimbursement or flexible working arrangements are available.
Flexible roles such as tutoring, freelancing, university jobs, retail, or hospitality tend to work best.
Stay organised, plan ahead, communicate with your employer, use productivity tools, and don’t forget to take breaks.
Ready to find your perfect Masters? Browse the thousands of postgraduate programmes listed on our website.
The average cost of a UK Masters degree is £8,740, but fees vary by course and university, with some programmes costing more than others.
Read moreA comprehensive Masters funding guide, covering student loans, university scholarships, other postgraduate funding.
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