4 TIME MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR AN ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE

www.onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu

BALANCING ACTTime management is a chief concern for working professionals looking to earn an online master’s degree. Online communications degree programs offer flexibility, but you still must juggle your job and ensure you spend time with family and friends.

When considering an online graduate degree program, here are four ways to make the most of your valuable time.

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

1. FIND THE RIGHT FITNot all online master’s degree programs are created equal. Many have unpredictable schedules, little collaboration or require travel to campus or abroad. This can make it difficult for working professionals to establish a reliable schedule.

UF’s online master’s programs feature on-demand classes you can attend on your schedule. You’ll watch lectures from world-class instructors and interact directly with classmates as you collaborate on projects.

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

2. SET DAILY GOALSSetting daily goals and structuring your schedule can make it much easier to manage your online coursework. As you prepare for an online program, plan out each day – set daily tasks, block off learning time and create a detailed schedule to simulate a typical day of work, study and family time.

Following this schedule for 1-2 months in advance can help create time management behaviors that stick once you begin.

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

3. PLAN FOR FUNHealthy work-school-life balance is critical. Add social events to your calendar and commit to them just as you do work and study obligations.

It’s valuable to have some help along the way. Productivity timers and techniques like the Pomodoro method include planned breaks for rest, and you should do the same. Scheduling time to see friends or go out with your family helps keep your mind on the big picture.

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

4. LEAN ON LOVED ONESBefore you begin an online master’s degree program, explain to your spouse and children that you’ll need time and space to work. Tell friends why you’re pursuing a graduate degree and ask them to help you stay on track.

This support system at home – coupled with the help of instructors and classmates – is one of the most effective ways to ensure success in your online graduate education.

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

4 TIME MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR AN ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE

Learn How Earning a Master of Arts in Mass Communication

Can Expand Your Career Horizons…

College of Journalismand CommunicationsUNIVERSITY of FLORIDA

www.onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu