Getting a university degree is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Not only does it prepare you with skills for the job you want, but it can also help you ascend the career ladder. On top of that, upgrading to a master’s degree can sometimes double your earning potential.
But, what if you don’t have time for coursework? What if you live in a city or country that doesn’t offer a master’s in your field? Then, an online master’s degree program should do the trick.
How to Study for an Online Master’s Degree
Applying for school is one thing; being successful in your course is another. To earn $240 more per week than a bachelor’s degree holder, you need to study, study, study! Here’s how.
1. Establish a Consistent Study Routine For Your Schedule
You’ll need to study at least 10 hours a week to get your master’s, and the only way to do this consistently is by incorporating more learning into your day. Find a distraction-free study spot at the same time each day and avoid distractions like social media or toys on your desk.
2. Look for a Degree Course With Support When You Need It
Unlike traditional university students, online students won’t be able to see their professor after calls or book an office appointment. If you have a question about your assignments or tests, you’ll have to email or message them, but what if you live in a different time zone or study late?
Students who aren’t able to get a response from their teachers could fail a test, so you need to enroll in a school that offers a flexible interaction schedule. For example, Victoria University’s online master of public health degree provides students 7-day support, from morning to evening.Â
3. Treat Your Master’s Program Like It’s Your Full-Time Job
Getting out of bed and going to work is difficult when you’re unmotivated, but you do it anyway because you need money. Apply the same kind of necessity to your degree program. Commit to showing up no matter how tired you are or how demanding the people in your life become.
4. Master Time Management by Developing Daily Habits
Everyone gets 24-hours in a day. Students that use their time responsibly are able to squeeze in more study time and research for their assignments. However, you can’t expect everything to fall into place by itself; you’ll need to plan each day using a detailed, realistic schedule.
While everything may feel like a priority, assignments that are due 5 days from now are often less pressing than your midterm exam. Focus on what’s important now, but always prepare for what’s around the corner. That means creating a closed-door policy for study time.
5. Ask Your Peers for Study Tips (or Set Study Dates)
Social learning is an essential tool educators use to help students learn faster. We can learn more efficiently by watching people or studying with our peers. By getting to know your classmates, you can learn different study tips or set study dates that can keep you motivated.
6. Identify Your Motivation and Lean On it When NecessaryÂ
What is your reason for getting a master’s degree? Is it to feel proud of your accomplishments, open up new opportunities, or improve the lives of your loved ones? Perhaps it’s all of the above. Whatever the reason, make sure you remind yourself of it when you really need it.
We recommend finding 4-5 reasons why you’re studying for your master’s, as it’s much harder to convince yourself to give up early. Write your reasons down and put them somewhere accessible, like your office or bathroom. Read them daily to stay motivated and inspired.
Also Read: 3 Best Fields for Associate’s Degrees
