Trying to juggle working full-time while also studying a Diploma can feel overwhelming. With constant demands from your job and finding time for coursework, it’s easy to feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. However, with determination and smart time management, you can strike a balance.

Follow these essential tips to successfully complete your course and gain your Diploma even with a busy full-time work schedule.

Research Your Options

The first step is finding the right training provider and course for your situation.

Some key things to look for include:

• Online courses – This allows you to complete coursework on your own time without travelling to classes – all of which takes time and money to do.
• Check you can study at your own pace and you do not have to complete units within tight time frames.
• Check the course is properly accredited – preferably by an awarding body separate from the training provider as they carry out inspections and ensure standards are maintained – just because the course is given the title Diploma doesn’t mean it is accredited!
• Check the level of support you will receive – are there real tutors involved in your course and how much guidance and tuition will you receive. How will you be looked after?
• Check the case stories, reviews etc to see how previous students found the course.e a Detailed Schedule

Study Tips

Look at your schedule every Sunday to organise the week ahead. Identify the most demanding days and periods so you can plan accordingly.

Having a clear roadmap of fixed study and work times helps you stay on track. Schedule study sessions like appointments too.

• Start slow – It takes a while to get into the swing of studying again.
• Mix difficult and easy – balance more demanding units with lighter coursework – it depends on your prior knowledge and experience.
• Remember to ask! If you are not sure about something – then your tutor is there to help you.

Maximise Productivity

Follow productivity tips to make the most of your limited time:

• Have dedicated study space – Set up an organised, distraction-free area to focus.
• Multi-task wisely – Combine study time with other tasks, like reading your lessons during your commute so you are ready to complete the assignments when you have your next study time.
• Use small blocks – Carve out 30-60 minute study sessions during free periods.
• Minimise distractions – Put the phone on do not disturb mode, close extra browser tabs, etc.
• Use productivity tools – Apps for note taking, task lists, project management, etc.
• Start assignments early – Don’t procrastinate. Chip away over time.
• Adopting more productive habits goes a long way when every minute counts.

Communicate Expectations

Have open discussions about your academic goals with family and friends and even your workplace if appropriate. Explain the time demands and ask for their support.

With family, discuss ways to share household responsibilities so you have time to study. Likewise, check with the workplace about potential schedule adjustments.

Listening to your needs and being flexible helps your support network assist you.

Tips for Managing Coursework

Keep up with coursework using these tips:

• Take good notes – pick up on key points and anything you need to clarify with your tutor.
• Don’t fall behind – Stay on top of your course with regular studying – little and often is better than large gaps in between study times as it takes a while to get back into studying.
• Tackle things in smaller chunks – makes studying much easier!
• Keep in touch with your tutor – it will help to make you feel connected.
• Finding small ways to practice self-care helps you with stress levels – so remember to have me time and not feel guilty if you do not study on one of your planned study sessions.

Believe In Yourself!

Finally, believe in yourself and your ability to successfully complete your course, even while juggling your job. Remind yourself why earning this Diploma is so important.

When things get difficult, look back at how far you’ve come. Overcoming challenges will only make you stronger and more resilient in the long run. You’ve got this!

Gaining a Diploma while working full-time is achievable with determination and smart time management. Follow the guidance in this post to balance your obligations and reach your career goals.

If you’re looking to gain new professional skills and qualifications to advance your career, Lewis College offers a fantastic range of online courses tailored to busy working people.

With flexible 100% home study options, expert tutor support, and accredited qualifications from respected industry bodies like NCFE and AMSPAR, our training provides tremendous value. We’ve been successfully educating students for nearly 40 years and take pride in our personal approach, with one-on-one guidance and quick response times. Explore our range of PA, Executive Assistant, Medical Secretary, Administration, and Microsoft Office courses, along with student testimonials.

Discover how Lewis College’s quality learning materials, ongoing tutoring, and career development advice can equip you with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your career goals.