Studying alongside a full-time job: what you need to consider

Studying alongside a full-time job - What sounds like squaring the circle is practiced by thousands of people. This is proven by the enrolment figures for distance learning universities: Nationwide, well over 160,000 people are currently studying at such an educational institution. In this article, we summarize the most important information on the topic of "Studying alongside a full-time job".

Studying alongside a full-time job: time commitment

How much time you have to or can invest in part-time studies depends on various factors. In particular, there is the inner drive to complete your studies quickly. Also the Personal situation plays a role: For example, studying for young mothers This is significantly more difficult than for singles who have no family obligations and can freely dispose of their time. Finally, the subject chosen is also important for the question of how much time a part-time study is of significance.

In general, for part-time studies between 15 and 40 hours per week is estimated. Those who opt for the "study alongside a full-time job" model cannot invest 40 hours a week due to the high workload at the company. Full-time employees normally spend 15 to 20 hours a week (i.e. two to three hours a day on average) on their studies. The double workload takes some getting used to - but after a while, most students find that they can cope with the new rhythm.

Studying alongside a full-time job: study options

If you are considering the further education model of "studying alongside a full-time job", there are several ways to make this wish a reality. The first option is to take up a Distance learning. In contrast to a classroom-based course, the teaching content is almost exclusively via the Internet. Attendance is only compulsory for examinations. At Allensbach University, study times can be arranged flexibly. If required, it is even possible to extend the duration of your studies free of charge.

The next option for realizing the plan to "study alongside a full-time job" is a Evening studies. Students must be prepared to attend classes in the evening and sometimes at weekends. This form of study is particularly suitable for women and men who value personal contact with their lecturers and fellow students.

Another variant is a Part-time study at a conventional university. This option is not available at all educational institutions. The duration of study is extended to 12 or 16 semesters. It should be noted that the courses offered are often not adapted to the needs of working people. It may therefore be the case that courses have to be attended in the morning hours.

Studying alongside a full-time job: costs

As prospective students already have a fixed income, the cost of studying alongside a full-time job is not a real obstacle to enrolment. At Allensbach University, the monthly fees are in the range of 375 to 590 Euro. There are also expenses for computers, printers, books and other learning materials. The costs may be lower or significantly higher at other learning institutes.

In contrast, on-campus studies are usually free of charge. Depending on the federal state, tuition fees are charged - but currently only for second or long-term studies. The costs for evening studies vary greatly and range from from a few hundred to several thousand euros per year. Travel costs and other expenses may have to be added.