Is it possible to work full time (3 12 hr shifts week) as a nurse and go to school for my masters as FNP?

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Is it possible to work full time (3 ,12 hr shifts week) as a nurse and go to school for my masters as FNP? I am the sole income in my family and I'm afraid I won't be able to go back to school if I can't work full time.

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

It is absolutely possible to work full-time as a nurse while pursuing a Master's degree in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

In fact, many adult learners balance the demands of a full-time job with graduate school, especially if they are the sole income earner. However, it requires careful planning, strong time management, and possibly some adjustments to your schedule.

Here are some tips to help manage both:

  • Choose a flexible program. Look for an FNP program that offers part-time options, online classes, or evening/weekend courses. This flexibility can help you balance work and school.
  • Plan your schedule. Map out your work shifts and school responsibilities each week. Consider front-loading assignments or studying on your days off to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Communicate with your employer. Some employers are supportive of nurses advancing their education. They might offer flexible scheduling, tuition reimbursement, or even reduced hours while keeping benefits.
  • Leverage support systems. Rely on family, friends, or colleagues to help with non-work responsibilities. This can free up more time for studying.
  • Prioritize Self-Care. Balancing work and school can be stressful. Make sure to allocate time for rest, exercise, and relaxation to prevent burnout.
  • Consider Financial Aid: If possible, explore scholarships, grants, or student loans to alleviate some financial pressure and allow you to reduce work hours if necessary.

Lifestyle changes. Lower your own expectations and think of ways to simplify things. For example, give cash to make gift-giving easier on holidays or birthdays. Consider online shopping for household staples. Food prep for the week. Make sure your hairstyle is simple to style and maintain. Batch your errands, such as getting gas on the way home from work. 

It's challenging but entirely doable with the right strategies in place. If you plan and manage your time well, you can work full-time while pursuing your FNP degree.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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