Three steps to find time for study, work and life

77% of future students are concerned they won’t have time to keep up with their studies.^* Balancing study and life is challenging – but the challenge is worth it. Study can open up new career paths, boost your current career, increase your job satisfaction and salary. Ready to begin? Set yourself up for success by following these three steps to manage your time effectively.

1. Tailor study to your life

Dr Vittoria Grossi from Deakin’s Student Academic Support Services says if you plan your time and priorities, ‘No matter what your competing demands are, it is possible to fit study in.’ The key is to tailor study to suit you.

Make your study mobile and digital

These days you can study anywhere, anytime, thanks to online study. At Deakin you can supplement your on-campus study with online study, or study entirely online. Participate in a class at home, read study materials on the way to work, or chat online with teachers and students.#

Set the pace of your education

You don’t have to choose between study or work. Take advantage of flexible study options. Switch between part-time and full-time study as your life changes. Complete your studies faster with intensive study or by taking additional units in Deakin’s Trimester 3. Or put your degree on hold if you need a break.

Try a single unit

See what studying at Deakin is like and whether it will work for you. Enrol in a single unit and then decide whether to continue to a full course. The unit can count towards a degree later.

Combine study with work

Does your work relate to your degree? Pitch study to your boss as professional development. Show how your upskilling will benefit the workplace. Ask for time off to attend uni, or a few hours a week to study during work.

2. Manage time effectively

Once you’ve found time for study, make it count. Dr Grossi says if you’re returning to study after a break it can be daunting, but take advantage of your life experience. ‘If you’re managing a lot of things – full-time job, kids, social life – that means you’re organised already.’

Get a head start on your studies

Once you enrol, Deakin provides online orientation resources with information, advice and checklists to help you prepare and understand what to expect at uni. You can even get a head start by checking out prescribed reading or resources in the Deakin Library.

Schedule time in advance

When you begin studying, get a clear understanding of the work expected for each unit and when it’s due. Schedule time for assignments, reading and exams. If you’re not clear on expectations, speak to your teachers.

Organise with planning tools

Deakin offers a number of time management planning tools that will help keep your study and personal life on track and prepare you for university study, such as Deakin’s weekly planner.