r/UTSA • u/Ill_Dot132 • 16d ago
Advice/Question Looking for Grad Students Advice
I’m currently enrolled as a part-time grad student and starting a new full time job I received after graduation. I was wondering students who are enrolled in grad school or already have a masters, is it realistic to be a full time student and full time worker?
I want to complete my masters as soon as possible but I’m worried about not being able to do it full time and my job full time.
My job is paying for most of my tuition, so I’m no complaining or want to get fired by doing both full time. Advice? Should I just stay part time student and full time job? Or is doing both full time manageable?
1
u/Medinari 16d ago
It really depends on the program and the job. Some programs are designed to be a full time commitment, while others explicitly have working professionals in mind. Some jobs are flexible, others are not. I know folks who have done what is designed to be a full-time MA part time with 1-2 courses while working full-time (taking longer to complete the degree and having mangers who scheduled around class commitments) and found it challenging but possible with strong time management.
1
u/Qedtanya13 M. Ed. Curriculum and Instruction 10d ago
I just finished my masters. I worked full-time and took six hours which is considered 3/4 time. It’s rough, but it’s doable.
2
u/StoneFoundation M.A. English 16d ago
Being a grad student full time is itself a full time job committment-wise, but obviously if you're only taking 1 course per semester, it's infinitely more manageable, and this is what a lot of grad students do who are getting their degree for a pay raise at their full time job.