The Advantages of Pursuing a Part-Time UK University Program While Working
Studying at a university can be a great opportunity to learn new skills, gain valuable knowledge, and even help with career prospects. But studying a full-time course can be expensive, as well as disruptive to your work-life balance – and it’s not always necessary.
For many potential students, part-time courses offer the perfect way of achieving their academic and professional goals, while still managing to stay in the workforce. Here, we take a look at the advantages of pursuing a part-time UK university program while working.
No Need to Interrupt Your Career
The most obvious benefit of pursuing a part-time university program while working is that you don’t have to interrupt your career. By studying in this way, you will have the opportunity to build on your existing career, earning valuable work experience and potentially receive promotions or career progression.
If you feel that you need to study further qualifications to progress in your current role, part-time options make this both more flexible and potentially more affordable.
Increased Financial Stability
Studying a course at a university full-time can mean dropping out of the workforce for an extended period of time. While this may seem appealing, it can also be a risky move, as you may struggle to find employment once you have completed your course.
By combining your studies with work, you will continue to receive the income that you need to support yourself and your family. This means that you can enjoy the best of both worlds, without having to worry about financial instability.
Greater Flexibility
When you’re working and studying part-time, you will have greater flexibility in terms of when and where you can attend classes. You will also have the opportunity to take your studies at your own pace, helping to manage any other commitments that you may have.
The fact that the classes are often held in the evening or at weekends also makes this even more appealing. Not only can you continue to work during the day, but you will also have some much needed free time in the evenings and on weekends.
Access to Great Resources
Studying a part-time course will still give you access to the same range of great resources that you would find if you were studying full-time. Whether you’re studying remotely or in-person, you will have access to experienced faculty members, great learning materials and the latest technology – all of which can help you to make the most of your studies.
Build Your Network
Studying at a university can provide you with the perfect opportunity to build your network and develop meaningful relationships with other students and faculty members. This can be hugely beneficial, as it not only provides you with the chance to meet people who may have similar interests and career paths, but it can also help you to make valuable contacts for the future – something that could help to open up great opportunities when you’re looking for a future job.
Career Opportunities and Prospects
In addition to gaining valuable knowledge and skills, studying a part-time university course can also be beneficial in terms of your career prospects. Not only will you have the opportunity to gain qualifications that are relevant to your field of work, but with a UK university course, you can be confident that you will have a valuable qualification from a highly renowned university.
This can be a great way to boost your employability, helping you to stand out from other candidates when you are applying for jobs or promotions.
What Courses are Available?
Many universities in the UK offer part-time courses, in a range of different subject areas. Whether you’re interested in studying Business, Law, Creative Arts, Health Sciences or another field, you should be able to find a course that meets your needs.
In addition to the traditional classroom-based courses, many universities also offer online options, meaning that you can study from home, or anywhere that suits you.
How to Get Started
If you think you might be interested in studying a part-time course while working full-time, the first step is to research courses that are available at universities in the UK. Make sure that you consider the cost, the duration of the course, the entry requirements, the mode of delivery and the individual modules that are available.
Once you’ve found a course that matches your needs, you can then contact the university and find out more about their part-time course options.
FAQs
Do part-time courses have the same value as full-time courses?
Yes. A part-time course is a great way to gain qualifications that are of the same value and quality as a full-time course.
How will studying part-time while working affect my employment?
Studying part-time while working can often be beneficial in terms of your career prospects, as this can offer the opportunity to gain qualifications that are relevant to your field of work. Employers may also be impressed with your commitment to studying while working.
What is the duration of a part-time course?
The duration of a part-time course will depend on the university and type of program. Generally, part-time courses can be completed in 2-4 years.
Conclusion
For many, studying at a university part-time while working is the most practical way to gain qualifications and develop their careers. Part-time courses tend to provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable qualifications while still having the ability to manage other commitments such as work, family, and other interests.
In addition, part-time courses give students the opportunity to access the same range of resources and support as a full-time course, without having to forgo their income or career. This makes part-time courses an attractive option for many – offering greater flexibility, increased financial stability, and access to great resources.
Ultimately, studying a part-time UK university program while working can be a great way to achieve your educational and professional goals, without having to disrupt your current lifestyle.
What are the benefits of doing a part-time university degree in the UK?
1. Flexible Learning: Part-time study often offers more flexible options for the students’ timetabling, so they are able to manage their studies, family and/or work responsibilities around their competing commitments.
2. Cost Effective: Generally, part-time university degrees in the UK are much cheaper than the equivalent full-time degree options due to lower tuition/accommodation costs as well as potential tax/grant exemptions.
3. Work/Study Balance: By studying part-time, students can balance the demands of both study and work and take advantage of the university’s research and professional development opportunities.
4. Familiarity: Lower costs, flexible learning, and the ability to remain in the same city or region often make this a popular choice for local students, since they can stay close to their families, friends, and familiar surroundings.
5. Transferable Skills: Further to this, the practical and transferable skills developed from part-time study are invaluable, whether the student is looking to pursue a career in their field of study or to gain experience that can be used elsewhere.
What type of qualifications do you need to get into a part-time university degree in the UK?
In order to be accepted onto a part-time university degree in the UK, you must meet certain entry requirements. Generally, these include holding a relevant Level 3 qualification (such as A levels or equivalent qualifications) or having related work experience. Additionally, some universities may require applicants to pass an admissions test, provide evidence of academic achievements, and/or demonstrate strong academic capability in any previous study.
