Tips For Juggling Work and Postgraduate Studies Successfully

Putting into practice the great challenge of studying while balancing work commitments begins with having a realistic and positive mindset.

Girl looking into her laptop screen

Here are some helpful steps to make the process smoother:

  1. Created a structured schedule - Block out specific hours for study, work, leisure and relaxation. A solid routine helps ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.

  2. Block out study time - Be intentional about setting aside time for your postgraduate degree. This could work out to be a few hours every morning, evening or during lunch breaks. The important thing is consistency.

  3. Prioritise tasks - Know what is most important and be able to navigate your time effectively. Prioritisation helps to make overwhelming tasks more manageable.

  4. Set realistic expectations - Trying to achieve stellar results in work and study is unrealistic and could lead to burnout. You won’t always have the capacity to excel in work and studies daily. Setting realistic goals can help reduce stress and keep you focused.

  5. Communicate with your employer - Don’t keep your studies a secret from your workplace. Many companies are supportive of employees furthering their education. Communicate effectively and timeously about your study commitments or scheduled exams so that you can have the required leave. Clear communication prevents misunderstanding. 

  6. Leverage university support systems - Many varsities, like NWU, offer support systems in the form of counselling, career guidance and more to help you achieve your goals with guidance from those in the know. Take full advantage of these, whether it’s academic tutoring, study resources, or mental health services.

  7. Remember self-care - Maintaining physical, mental and spiritual health is vital to the success of any demanding academic pursuit. Whether it’s through regular exercise, attending an emotional or spiritual support group or taking time to go for walks or meditate, making time to care for yourself is crucial to success.

 

Make Education Work For You at NWU

Balancing a busy career and a postgraduate degree can feel like walking a tightrope, but with structured time management, clear communication, plus a focus on self-care, completion and success are possible.

North-West University’s distance learning options and student support systems offer you the flexibility and assistance you need to succeed in both arenas.

Learn more about NWU’s postgraduate degrees and distance learning options today.