Can you study a master’s degree online while working full-time?
You can definitely earn your master’s degree while you keep working. In fact, many professionals choose this option to develop their knowledge without taking a career break.
However, an online master’s still requires focus, time and commitment. You’ll be studying, researching and completing assessments at a postgraduate level. The key difference is that you control when and where you learn, fitting your studies around your personal and professional life.
Roehampton designs online postgraduate programmes for busy professionals who need flexibility without compromising on academic quality.
How much time will you need?
The time you need depends on the programme you choose and its study mode.
Many online master’s degrees offer a full-time route, which allows you to complete the qualification more quickly, and a part-time route, which spreads the workload over a longer period.
If you plan to work full-time while studying, part-time study offers a more sustainable pace. It gives you time to engage with learning materials and complete assignments, even during busy work periods.
Before applying, map out a typical week to see where you can schedule time to read, watch teaching materials and work on assignments.
How flexible is online learning?
Flexible, online study does not mean there are no deadlines.
You’ll still follow a structured programme with modules and assessment dates, but you’ll be able to access your learning online rather than being tied to a campus classroom.
Flexible online study can work well if you:
- travel regularly or do shift work
- manage family or caregiving responsibilities
- need to study outside of the regular Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm hours
- want to carry on working while you study
- prefer revisiting course content at your own pace
At Roehampton, we use a digital learning environment so you can access your learning materials and engage with tutors and peers at a time that suits you. Discover more about our online learning experience here.
Can you keep your current job while you study?
Many online students continue working while they complete their degree. This approach lets you apply academic concepts to your daily work, making your learning feel more practical and relevant.
For example, an education professional could reflect on leadership or inclusive practice in their own setting or a digital marketer could test new strategies directly in their organisations.
How can you make work and study manageable?
- Schedule regular study time by putting it in your calendar and treating it as non-negotiable commitments
- Start your assignments as early as possible and record your deadlines so you can deal with any unexpected interruptions in your personal and professional life
- Be realistic about your capacity and make time for rest, relationships, and other demands
- Use the support available to you to avoid burnout. We have an extensive support system to help you every step of the way
Is an online master’s right for you?
If you want to continue working while you study and prefer to access learning materials in your own time, then an online master’s may be right for you.
Before applying, you should consider:
- What goals do I want this degree to help me achieve?
- Which pace suits me best – full-time or part-time?
- How many hours can I realistically dedicate to studying each week?
- What support is available from my employer and/or household?
- Does the degree match my interests and career plans?
The Roehampton difference
At Roehampton, we build degrees that prepare you for the workplace. We equip you with the practical skills that modern employers demand across different industries. With top-tier education in a fully online and flexible format, study with Roehampton to take your career to the next level.