I Am the Parent of a Young Child, Can I Earn a Psychology Degree?

In the past, college was reserved for recent high school graduates who had no limitations to attending a full-time, on campus college program. That meant that people with a career, a family or a lot of obligation would have to skip or put off earning their degree. Over the course of the past twenty-five years there have been remarkable changes to how, when and where students can earn their college degree. Many people who put off their degree report that one of the major reasons they did not pursue a degree is because they were raising children. While children are obviously a priority and require a great deal of time, it is easier than ever before to be both a parent and a college student.

Part-Time Programs for Psychology Students

One of the changes that has occurred is the switch from largely full-time, “9-5” programs, more and more colleges are offering part-time degree options. This means that a college education may span five or six years instead of the traditional four-year course of study. This flexibility is often considered a major benefit to parents. Instead of tackling a huge course load, they can work at a pace much more suitable to their needs.

Evening and Weekend Programs for Psychology Students

Another change to the educational world was the dramatic rise in evening and weekend degree programs. In the past students could complete a limited number of courses on the weekends or at night, but completing an entire degree this way was a challenge. Schools recognized the fact that parents and busy work professionals could benefit from degree programs that are completed entirely in the evening, on the weekend or a combination of the two. This offers a high level of flexibility for many students.

Hybrid or Online Programs for Psychology Students

One of the most dramatic changes to the delivery of college educations is the significant jump in programs offering online and hybrid degree programs. Now students can complete an entire college degree with very little or no time spent on campus. As technology advances rapidly, students still have the benefits of interacting with peers and faculty, “meeting” with advisors virtually and using the most cutting edge technology. In many cases the same faculty members teach both online and on campus sections of the same course. This type of learning has made is much easier for busy parents to earn their degree. With the ability to complete their coursework centered around their children’s schedules, parents can create a learning plan that works for them.

These are three of the biggest changes to the academic system over the past twenty-five years. There have been additional changes but these three options mean that parents can find a style that works for both their schedule and their learning needs. It has never been easier for parents of young children to be a Mom or Dad and also a college student.