The idea of returning to study after joining the workforce may feel daunting, especially if it has been a long time since you last sat in a classroom. You may wonder whether you can keep up with the demands of academic life or juggle work and responsibilities.
In Singapore, many working professionals are already upskilling. According to SkillsFuture Singapore’s 2024 Review, more than 555,000 Singaporeans took part in SSG-supported training last year, and over 24,000 employers provided training opportunities for about 241,000 employees.
Balancing work and study takes intention, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The approaches below can help you create a sustainable rhythm that supports your professional development:
1. Be prepared for the work
Romsek, a Master’s student at LSBF in Singapore and a full-time working professional, offers a practical reminder: “Prepare to work hard. When you take on something at this level, you need to put in a certain amount of time and expect to do more.”
Whether you’re studying a part-time diploma or a part-time degree, it helps to acknowledge the reality that both your work and academics will require attention. Effective time management is essential, enabling you to progress without compromising your responsibilities.
2. Create a Work-Study Schedule that Works for You
You don’t need large blocks of time. Consistent, shorter sessions, spread across the week, often work better for working professionals. This steady pace prevents last-minute stress and helps you absorb material more effectively.
| Planning& Prioritisation | • Create a master schedule for work, study, personal time, and rest.• Set clear academic goals and break them into smaller steps.• Prioritise using the Eisenhower Matrix (Urgent/Important).• Treat your study sessions as non-negotiable appointments. |
| Execution & Focus | • To improve concentration, use time-blocking techniques like 25–30-minute Pomodoro intervals. • Reduce distractions by silencing notifications and choosing a quiet space. • Avoid multitasking to maintain accuracy and progress.• Use commutes or downtime for passive learning (lectures, podcasts, audiobooks). |
| Tools & Support | • Use digital tools—Google Calendar, Todoist, website blockers—to stay organised.• Keep study materials and digital files well-organised. |
| Sustainability& Balance | • Schedule regular breaks to avoid burnout.• Be realistic about your workload and adjust when needed.• Maintain healthy habits—sleep, nutrition, and exercise—to stay energised. |
3. Build Your Support System
Talking openly with your employer about your educational goal may lead to surprising support. For example, many managers may appreciate employees who take the steps for professional development. They may offer flexible work arrangements or reduce your responsibilities to accommodate your studies.
You can also tap on the support offered by your educational institution. At LSBF in Singapore, faculty members understand the realities of juggling work and study and guide students through the process.
Siti returned to pursue a BA (Honours) in Business Logistics and Transport Management to advance her career and shared that the programme’s structure is well-suited to working professionals like herself. She added that sharpening her time-management skills was key to balancing work and study. Studying part-time also helped her gain a deeper understanding of how the organisation operates and the goals that drive its decisions.
4. Apply What You Learn As You Go
One significant advantage of part-time study is the ability to apply new knowledge immediately. This reinforces learning, boosts confidence, and often improves your performance at work.
How Part-Time Programmes Support Career Growth in Singapore
A part-time diploma or part-time degree in Singapore offers several advantages for your professional development:
- Continue working while upskilling
- Qualifications that employers across industries recognise and value.
- Practical knowledge that you can apply immediately
- Better preparedness for roles that demand higher skill depth
- A structured pathway for long-term career advancement
These programmes are particularly relevant for professionals considering promotions, career transitions, or broader responsibilities at work.
How LSBF Singapore Campus Supports Working Professionals
LSBF in Singapore designs its programmes with working professionals in mind. Whether you explore a part-time diploma or a part-time degree, you gain access to flexible learning structures, industry-aligned curriculum, and a supportive academic environment.
Studying while working is a commitment, but it is also a strategic investment—one that helps in your professional development. With the right academic support, you can balance both effectively and build the capabilities needed for an increasingly skills-driven workplace.
Speak with our education consultant to know more about part-time diplomas and part-time degrees at LSBF in Singapore.
FAQs
1. What should I consider before enrolling in a part-time programme?
Consider your career goals, schedule flexibility, financial planning, and how relevant the programme is to your long-term career progression. Reviewing the module workload and assessment formats can also help you plan.
2. Can I balance shift work or irregular hours with part-time study?
Many programmes offered by institutions such as LSBF Singapore are available in evening, weekend, or blended learning formats. If your job involves rotating shifts, look for flexible modules or online components that can help you manage your time more effectively.
3. Do part-time programmes offer networking opportunities?
Yes. As you study alongside peers from various backgrounds, you’ll have opportunities to expand your professional connections, collaborate, and build long-term networks. At LSBF Singapore, students also benefit from Career & Employability Services, including employability workshops and career fairs.
