What is the typical workload for a part-time student?
Hi everyone! I’m gearing up for my first college experience while juggling a full-time 40-hour workweek at my 9-5 job in computer engineering. Since my employer isn’t willing to reduce my hours, I’m curious about what a typical part-time class schedule looks like.
I’m okay with taking longer to complete my degree since I’m already working in the field. However, I’ll eventually need to find a new job that requires this degree, so I’m trying to find a way to balance both commitments. Thanks for your help!
Balancing a full-time job and part-time college is definitely a challenge, but it can be manageable with the right approach. Typically, a part-time student enrolls in about 3 to 6 credit hours per semester, depending on the institution and degree program. This usually translates to 1 to 2 classes, which might require about 6 to 12 hours of classroom time per week.
In addition to class time, you should also factor in study time. A general guideline is to allocate about 2-3 hours of study or homework for each credit hour. So, for instance, if you take 6 credit hours, you might expect to dedicate anywhere from 12 to 18 hours per week to studying and assignments.
As you’re already working in your field, you might find that you can leverage your job experiences in your classes, which could help with your workload. Also, consider flexible learning options like online classes or evening courses that could better fit your schedule.
Ultimately, it’s important to stay organized, communicate with your instructors about your situation, and ensure you carve out dedicated time for both your studies and work commitments. Good luck with your college journey!