2 answers
Katelynn
Student
Salt Lake City, Utah
5
Questions
Asked
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Has anyone done an online Interior Design program while also working full time?
If so do you have any tips for balancing your time? And if not, is the work load too much to do both? I would love any feedback as I am accepted into an online masters program and trying to decide if I need to take a step back from work?
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2 answers
Miha B
Academic and Career Counselor | Human Resources Specialist | Internal Auditor
30
Answers
Winter Park, Florida
Updated
Miha’s Answer
Hi Katelynn,
Balancing a full-time job while pursuing an online program is absolutely doable, and I can speak from experience.
It can be done with determination, discipline, and motivation.
Time management was key, and staying organized helped me keep up with everything. I’d recommend setting a clear schedule, staying disciplined with deadlines, and finding moments throughout your day to study, even if it’s just 15-minute breaks during lunch.
It’s challenging, but with the right mindset and support, it’s achievable!
Here are some tips:
Set a Schedule: Treat your study time like a job. Schedule specific hours each day for studying and working on assignments. It's important to stay consistent to keep up with both commitments.
Use Time Blocks: Break your day into blocks of time for both work and school. If possible, use early mornings, evenings, or weekends to study. Having a set routine can help you stay organized.
Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks first. If deadlines overlap with your work schedule, communicate early with both your employer and instructors about extensions or adjustments.
Stay Organized: Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, or project management apps (e.g., Trello, Asana) to keep track of assignments and deadlines for both work and school.
Leverage Downtime: Use any free time during the day, like lunch breaks or commute time (if applicable), to read or listen to related podcasts, or review class materials.
Talk to Your Employer: Some employers may be understanding and offer flexible hours or reduced workload during your study periods. It’s worth discussing your academic goals with them.
Stay Healthy: Don’t neglect your physical and mental health. Make time for exercise, sleep, and self-care. This will help you stay energized and focused.
As for whether the workload is too much, it depends on the program’s demands and your personal situation.
Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance that works for you!
Balancing a full-time job while pursuing an online program is absolutely doable, and I can speak from experience.
It can be done with determination, discipline, and motivation.
Time management was key, and staying organized helped me keep up with everything. I’d recommend setting a clear schedule, staying disciplined with deadlines, and finding moments throughout your day to study, even if it’s just 15-minute breaks during lunch.
It’s challenging, but with the right mindset and support, it’s achievable!
Here are some tips:
Set a Schedule: Treat your study time like a job. Schedule specific hours each day for studying and working on assignments. It's important to stay consistent to keep up with both commitments.
Use Time Blocks: Break your day into blocks of time for both work and school. If possible, use early mornings, evenings, or weekends to study. Having a set routine can help you stay organized.
Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks first. If deadlines overlap with your work schedule, communicate early with both your employer and instructors about extensions or adjustments.
Stay Organized: Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, or project management apps (e.g., Trello, Asana) to keep track of assignments and deadlines for both work and school.
Leverage Downtime: Use any free time during the day, like lunch breaks or commute time (if applicable), to read or listen to related podcasts, or review class materials.
Talk to Your Employer: Some employers may be understanding and offer flexible hours or reduced workload during your study periods. It’s worth discussing your academic goals with them.
Stay Healthy: Don’t neglect your physical and mental health. Make time for exercise, sleep, and self-care. This will help you stay energized and focused.
As for whether the workload is too much, it depends on the program’s demands and your personal situation.
Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance that works for you!
Poorvi Mehta
Business Account Manager
11
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Poorvi’s Answer
Key Considerations Before You Commit
-Program Structure:
Is it (self-paced) or (live classes)?
Self-paced programs are easier to balance with a full-time job.
-Weekly Time Commitment:
Most master’s programs require 15–20 hours/week, sometimes more during project-heavy weeks.
-Your Current Workload:
Do you have a flexible job or is it high-stress and overtime-heavy? If your job is demanding, you may need to reduce hours or take on fewer courses per term.
Tips
1. Create a Time Block Schedule
Set aside specific hours each week for coursework (e.g., weekday evenings and weekend mornings).
Treat school time like a standing meeting—non-negotiable.
2. Use Project Management Tools
Use tools like Trello, or even a simple planner to keep track of due dates, progress, and weekly tasks.
Visual tracking helps prevent last-minute stress.
3. Talk to Your Employer (If Possible)
If your job is supportive, share your goals. They may offer flexibility—remote work days, lighter assignments, or even financial support.
4. Make Time for Breaks
Burnout is real. Schedule small breaks and protect at least one day a week for rest or non-school hobbies.
-Program Structure:
Is it (self-paced) or (live classes)?
Self-paced programs are easier to balance with a full-time job.
-Weekly Time Commitment:
Most master’s programs require 15–20 hours/week, sometimes more during project-heavy weeks.
-Your Current Workload:
Do you have a flexible job or is it high-stress and overtime-heavy? If your job is demanding, you may need to reduce hours or take on fewer courses per term.
Tips
1. Create a Time Block Schedule
Set aside specific hours each week for coursework (e.g., weekday evenings and weekend mornings).
Treat school time like a standing meeting—non-negotiable.
2. Use Project Management Tools
Use tools like Trello, or even a simple planner to keep track of due dates, progress, and weekly tasks.
Visual tracking helps prevent last-minute stress.
3. Talk to Your Employer (If Possible)
If your job is supportive, share your goals. They may offer flexibility—remote work days, lighter assignments, or even financial support.
4. Make Time for Breaks
Burnout is real. Schedule small breaks and protect at least one day a week for rest or non-school hobbies.