The rise of correspondence education has made it easier for individuals to pursue a postgraduate degree while working. But making a choice can be complicated as you will need to carefully consider your daily routine. Moreover, adding a full-time college degree to your resume can open up a world of opportunities for you.
According to a recent report, 44 lakh employees resigned in September 2021, a 17% rise from August. In another report, one in every five students between the ages of 19-20 would drop out of school to find work. Another trend that is gaining traction is quitting a job to study or pursuing a course with the intention of advancing one’s career. In this definitive guide, we will explore if you should quit your job to study further.
Factors to Consider when Deciding Whether to Pursue Further Education
There are several factors to consider when considering pursuing a postgraduate degree while employed.
- Pursuing a postgraduate degree can be expensive, so you must determine whether it is financially feasible. It includes not only the cost of tuition but also additional expenses such as textbooks, transportation, and accommodation.
- It is important to consider the time commitment required for full-time education. Balancing work and postgraduate studies can be challenging.
- The relevance of the postgraduate degree to one’s career goals should be carefully considered. Determining whether the postgraduate degree will provide you with necessary skills and knowledge to advance in one’s chosen career path is essential.
- One should also consider the potential impact of such a busy schedule on their personal life. Pursuing further education while being employed can be time-consuming and may leave you with little time for leisure and socialising.
It is imperative to take the above factors into consideration before deciding to pursue a postgraduate degree while being employed. It is only after having carefully considered these factors can they make an informed decision and determine which course of action will be suitable for them.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Further Education for Career Advancement
Several studies in the past have pointed to the prevalence of the trend of working part-time throughout the academic year. Increased competition in the job market is also forcing students to find full-time employment during breaks and, in some cases, along with college. It cannot be disputed that furthering one’s education will prove to be a significant investment in career advancement. Pursuing a postgraduate degree while working can provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to take on more challenging roles within their industry.
The benefits of prioritising education include better job prospects, potential to earn higher salary, and the opportunity to specialise in a specific area. Additionally, further education can allow individuals to network with others in their field and gain exposure to new ideas and perspectives. However, there are also drawbacks to consider.
The cost of tuition, living expenses, the time commitment required, and the potential loss of income while studying are some common drawbacks associated with higher education. Furthermore, depending on the industry, employers may not necessarily value a postgraduate degree over work experience which will eventually reduce your chances of a higher salary or promotion.
It is essential to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before pursuing further education for career advancement. Individuals should evaluate their career goals and determine whether opting for a postgraduate degree is a good enough reason for leaving a job. They should also consider the return on investment and whether the potential increase in salary will justify bearing the cost of tuition and living expenses.
Strategies for Balancing Work and Education Commitments
With proper planning and organisation, you can effectively balance work and education commitments.
- One strategy is to create a schedule that outlines the times and days when coursework will be completed. You need to carefully plan & schedule around work commitments and personal obligations and follow it at any cost. Additionally, you should use free time, such as weekends and evenings, to complete coursework and readings.
- Another important strategy is communicating with supervisors and colleagues about the commitment to education. By making them aware of the situation, they may be able to offer support and flexibility with your work schedules or deadlines. Furthermore, you should prioritise tasks and responsibilities, focusing on completing the most important tasks and delegating where possible.
- It is also important to maintain a healthy work-life/study balance. It can be achieved by setting aside time for relaxation and leisure activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with family and friends. By taking care of your physical and emotional well-being, individuals can maintain their energy and focus for longer, enabling them to balance work and education commitments more successfully in the long term.
Real-World Examples of Successful Career Transitions Through Further Education
Real-world examples can be a great source of inspiration and motivation for individuals considering higher education while working. Many successful professionals have pursued higher education while working and have successfully transitioned into new career fields.
One such example is Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, who pursued a degree in computer science while working on Wall Street. This education helped him build the foundation for his revolutionary e-commerce empire.
Another example is Sheryl Sandberg, the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook, who pursued an MBA while working at Google. It helped her gain the skills and knowledge needed to take on leadership roles in the tech industry.
Hence, it is evident that furthering your education can help individuals gain the necessary knowledge and skills to transition into new careers or advance in their current ones. However, it is important to note that these successful transitions require hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt.
Individuals pursuing further education while working should seek out mentors and networking opportunities within your desired industry. You need to be prepared to invest time and resources into continuing education and professional development, such as attending workshops and conferences.
Impact of Further Education on Career Advancement Opportunities
Pursuing higher education can impact your job prospects and temporarily put any career advancement opportunities on hold. However, once the course is complete, you can become more competitive in the job market as you will have gained more skills and knowledge. It will greatly increase your chances of landing high-paying jobs or promotions. Investing in education helps you stay up-to-date with latest industry trends, which makes you a more valuable asset to your employer.
The impact of going for higher education on job prospects and career advancement opportunities may vary depending on several factors. For instance, the relevance of education to your career goals, the prestige of the institution offering the education, and the demand for the skills acquired through the education can all affect your ability to secure better jobs or advance your careers.
The disadvantages of pursuing education along with employment include sacrificing personal time, reducing working hours, and requesting flexible work arrangements to take out time for studying. However, with proper planning and time management, you can successfully balance both commitments and reap the rewards that come with being more educated.
Final Takeaways
Pursuing further education while working can both positively and negatively impact your life. It is important to carefully evaluate financial impact, time commitment, relevance to career goals, and impact on your personal life before deciding. Ultimately, it comes down to your career goals, understanding of the business world, and their life circumstances that will hold the most influence over the decisions.
