How to find time for postgraduate study

Juggling life, work and postgraduate study can feel like trying to keep a dozen plates spinning at once. It’s a tough act, but with the right strategies and a bit of determination, you can master it.  

To guide us through this balancing act, we’ve tapped into the wisdom of Dr Vittoria Grossi, an expert in student academic support.  

Dr Grossi offers practical insights to help you master the art of balancing postgraduate study with your busy life, all while keeping your sanity intact. 

What is postgraduate study? The basics 

Before we dive into the deep end, let’s start with the basics.  

Postgraduate study is an advanced level of education that goes beyond your undergraduate degree.  

Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into a field, switch career paths or simply flex your intellectual muscles, postgraduate study opens doors.  

From Graduate Certificates to Doctoral Programs, there’s a path for every goal – whether that’s climbing the career ladder or becoming the go-to expert at your next dinner party. 

Postgraduate study vs. undergraduate degree: What’s the difference? 

So, you might be wondering, ‘What’s the difference between an undergraduate degree and a postgraduate degree?’  

Think of your undergraduate degree as the foundation of a house – it’s essential, sure, but the postgraduate degree is where you add all the fancy rooms and upgrades. 

 Postgraduate study is about diving deep into your chosen field, conducting research and gaining advanced knowledge that sets you apart. 

Preparing for postgraduate study: Tips for a smooth start  

Getting ready for postgraduate study is like prepping for a marathon. You wouldn’t run a marathon without training, right? The same goes for postgraduate study.  

First things first, research! Understand what’s required for your program and get familiar with the coursework.  

Reach out to current students or alumni for their insights – they’ve been there and can offer invaluable tips.  

As Dr Grossi advises, ‘You have to know yourself and how you tackle things. Take into account how you study.’  

Explore different types of postgraduate degrees – from short-term Graduate Certificates to more extensive Masters and Doctoral programs – and pick the one that fits your goals. 

Balancing work and postgraduate study 

Balancing a full-time job with postgraduate study can feel like trying to steer a ship through a storm. But don’t worry, you’ve got this. Here’s how to keep things on course: 

Balance work and postgraduate study like a pro 

Set realistic goals and create a study schedule that fits around your work commitments. 

Prioritise your tasks and make sure you have dedicated study time – no distractions allowed!  

Regular breaks are essential too. Think of them as mini vacations for your brain. Dr Grossi highlights, ‘No matter what your competing demands are, it is possible to fit in study.’ 

Common pitfalls: Overcommitting is easy to do – avoid it. Focus on quality over quantity in both work and study. 

Make postgraduate study work – at work 

Are you already working in your field?  

Consider pitching postgraduate study to your boss as part of your professional development. You might be able to negotiate time off for classes or request a few hours a week to study during work hours. It doesn’t hurt to ask – a supportive boss can make all the difference in balancing your responsibilities.

Part-time postgraduate study: Is it for you? 

Not everyone can commit to full-time study, and that’s okay.  

If you’re balancing work or other responsibilities, part time postgraduate study might be the perfect fit. It allows you to advance your education at your own pace. Many programs offer part-time options, providing flexibility to manage your studies alongside other commitments.  

Online postgraduate study: Flexibility at its best 

Online postgraduate study is a game-changer. It offers flexibility that traditional programs might not, allowing you to learn from anywhere, at any time and fit your studies around your life. 

Benefits of online postgraduate study: Why flexibility matters 

Online study provides unparalleled freedom to tailor your education around your personal and professional commitments. Here’s why flexibility matters: 

• Craft your own schedule: Enjoy the freedom to learn when and where it suits you best. No more rigid class times – design a study plan that fits seamlessly into your life. 

• Balance work and postgraduate study: Online study lets you juggle work, family and education without stress. Fit your coursework around your existing commitments and reduce burnout. 

• Access resources anytime: Keep up with your studies from anywhere. With online resources always at your fingertips, you can study at home, in a café or even on vacation. 

• Learn at your own pace: Move quickly through easy topics and take your time on challenging ones. Online programs often allow you to set your own pace, adapting to your needs. 

Postgraduate study tips for managing your time effectively 

Whether you’re studying full time, part time or online, time management is your best friend when it comes to postgraduate study.  

Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to keep track of deadlines and assignments. Break tasks into manageable chunks and tackle them one at a time.  

And remember, it’s okay to ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Dr Grossi advises, ‘The key thing is not to get behind in understanding the topic, because it all builds up. If something’s not clear, speak to someone as early as possible to clarify.’ 

Understanding your study habits – whether you thrive in concentrated bursts or prefer a steady pace – can help you create a schedule that maximises efficiency. 

Recommended tools: Consider using apps like Todoist for task management or Google Calendar for scheduling. 

Leverage your existing skills for study success 

If you’re already balancing work, family, and social life, guess what? You’re a pro at time management.  

Dr Grossi says returning to uni can be daunting, but if you consider your life skills, you’re already ahead. ‘If you’re managing a lot of things – full-time job, kids, social life – you are very busy but that means you’re organised already.’ 

Funding for postgraduate study: What you need to know 

Worried about the cost of postgraduate study? Don’t be! There are various funding options available to ease the financial load, helping you focus more on your studies and less on money stress. 

From scholarships to grants and loans, explore your options early to find the best fit. Securing funding ahead of time can reduce financial pressure and give you the flexibility to create a study plan that works for you. 

Balancing postgraduate study and everyday life: Key takeaways 

Balancing postgraduate study with other aspects of your life doesn’t have to be a tightrope walk.  

With the right strategies and a confident mindset, you can tackle this challenge head-on. Stay organised, manage your time effectively and remember to look after yourself along the way. 

You’ve got this! Embrace the journey, and before long, you’ll be celebrating your achievements with a well-deserved sense of pride. 

Ready to dive into postgraduate study? Your future self will thank you! 

With some good old-fashioned planning and Deakin’s flexible study options, you can find the time for postgraduate study and prepare for a career leap.