Doing Grad School Part Time

In 2021 I graduated with a physics bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Now I’m an active US Army officer and part-time graduate student at Johns Hopkins University, where I study applied and computational mathematics. If going to grad school part time sounds interesting, here are some things to consider.

What do you want from a graduate program? Do you want to study something that makes you better at your job, something you’re passionate about, or both? These are vital aspects of deciding what and where to study. If you’re interested in pursuing research or a PhD in the future, note which programs offer these tracks versus course-based degrees.

How can you do both? Time management is crucial when you’re juggling multiple pursuits. Schedule study time throughout the entire week (including weekends), and stick to that plan! It’s helpful if your supervisor supports your schooling and gives you the flexibility to attend office hours, study groups, and other school events.

How will you pay tuition? Most US graduate programs don’t cover tuition or give stipends to part-time students. However, some employers will pay for their employees to take specific classes or even earn a degree. There may be stipulations—all companies are different, so check with your employer. As a part-time student, you can also pay out of pocket and apply for scholarships and loans.

How can you make the most of grad school? It can be tempting to just answer homework questions and move on, but take the time to meet with professors during office hours and with other students during group study sessions. This will help you retain more information and cultivate a meaningful network.