Getting Your Degree While You Work

When it comes to getting a degree, it’s best to start sooner rather than later. The longer you wait the more chances you’ll miss out on to maximize your earnings.

According to 2003 Census Bureau statistics, professionals with bachelor's degrees make on average nearly $23,300 more a year than high school graduates, and Master's degree holders average $11,300 more annually than their bachelor's degree colleagues.

The benefit to your career is clear. And by enrolling early you’ll be able to get your tuition payments out of the way sooner, which means more time for you to really enjoy your salary boost.

While higher education can lead to a brighter future, getting there can be difficult. If you work full-time, finding a balance between your professional and academic careers can seem daunting. Careful planning of your education can mark the difference between frustration and graduation. Here are a few things to consider when pursuing a degree while working.

Are You Dedicated?

If you’re working a 9-to-5, getting your degree means one thing for certain: late nights. Nothing beats coming home from a long day of work to a 10-page paper and 2 hours of reading. It takes a strong will and perseverance to balance a professional and academic workload.

Before deciding to work and study, take stock of your time and energy. It doesn’t matter if you’re going part-time, going full-time, or taking online classes, you need to be sure you can handle the workload. Make sure you have at least 2 hours a night available to study. If you have family, let them know you’ll need some personal time in the evening to get your class work done.

Can You Get to Class?

Proximity may be one of the biggest hurdles to pursuing a degree while working. Is there a college within an hour of your job? Do they offer the program you want?

If not, consider an online program. The benefit of this avenue is the absence of travel time. If you feel you need the structure of a physical classroom, try to find a college that offers weekend classes. Regardless of the direction you’re going, getting to class is half the battle.

Are You Flexible?

Colleges aren’t typically structured with the full-time worker in mind. Sometimes colleges offer the classes you need in the morning or middle of the day. If you’re attending a physical college, this may happen to you, and it will probably be something vital like a seminar course.

The only way to combat this is to be flexible. Can you shift hours around at your job? Can you find a way to cover the material when you can’t attend class?

When faced with inconvenient class times, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk with your employer and see if you can reach an agreement. Often, you’ll be surprised to see how responsive an employer can be when you tell him/her that you’re furthering your education. Professors may also work with you to fit the course load into your busy schedule. Don’t forget, these people have a vested interest in your success.

Are You Patient?

Being a nontraditional student can be exceedingly frustrating. When going part-time, college may feel like it will never end. Patience is a much needed virtue when it comes to getting your degree. Try to remind yourself that you’re building towards something great.

Get Started Already!

If you think you have what it takes to juggle school and work, get started as soon as possible. This will allow you to pay off student loans sooner and perhaps even lock in a lower interest rate. College takes a great deal of patience and dedication, but the benefits far exceed the hardships. If you plan your academic path today, you can look forward to a brighter career tomorrow.

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