Balancing work and study is tough, but with part-time online degrees, more South Africans are managing to earn qualifications while keeping their jobs. Especially if you’re a working professional, a parent, or someone looking for a career change, online learning gives you the flexibility to study at your own pace without quitting your job.
Today we’ll explores how part-time online degrees work, the best universities offering them, and how you can successfully juggle work and studies.
Why Choose a Part-Time Online Degree?
1. Study Without Quitting Your Job
A big advantage of part-time online degrees is that you don’t have to leave your job. Traditional university programs require full-time attendance, but online degrees let you study anytime, anywhere. This is great for people who have jobs, families, or other responsibilities.
For example, UNISA and MANCOSA offer part-time online degrees with 24/7 access to lectures and assignments. You can study after work, on weekends, or whenever you have free time.
2. Save Money on Education
Online degrees are often cheaper than studying on campus. You don’t have to pay for transport, accommodation, or campus facilities. Many universities also offer payment plans and financial aid to help working students afford their studies. Milpark Education is a good example of this. It allows students to pay tuition in installments, and Regenesys Business School offers scholarships for part-time students studying business.
3. Get a Degree That Advances Your Career
A degree can help you get promoted, earn more money, or switch careers. Many South African companies support employees who upskill, and some even help pay for their studies. A business, IT, or management degree can open doors to better job opportunities.
For instance, if you work in finance, a BCom in Accounting from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Online can help you qualify for high-paying jobs or industry certifications like SAICA.
Top Universities Offering Part-Time Online Degrees in South Africa
Several universities in South Africa offer fully accredited, part-time online degrees. Here are some of the best options:
| University | Popular Online Degrees | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Africa (UNISA) | BCom, LLB, BA in Communication | Largest online university in SA, flexible study schedules |
| MANCOSA | MBA, BCom, Human Resource Management | Affordable and designed for working professionals |
| Regent Business School | MBA, BCom, Supply Chain Management | Strong focus on business and management education |
| Milpark Education | BBA, BCom, Postgraduate Diplomas | Offers flexible payment options and employer-sponsored learning |
| Regenesys Business School | MBA, Bachelor of Business Administration | Provides scholarships and financial aid for part-time students |
| University of Johannesburg (UJ) Online | BCom in Accounting, Public Management, IT Management | Well-structured online platform with interactive learning tools |
| STADIO | Education, Law, IT, Marketing degrees | Focuses on industry-relevant degrees with strong job market alignment |
These universities offer fully accredited degrees recognized by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and SAQA, ensuring that your qualification carries weight in the job market.
How to Balance Work & Online Study
1. Make a Study Plan
Balancing work and studies requires good time management. Plan your study schedule around your work hours. If you work 9-to-5, study in the evenings or on weekends. Many part-time students study for 1–2 hours per day to stay on track.
2. Focus on Small Goals
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, break your degree into small goals. Instead of stressing about finishing a three-year degree, focus on completing one module at a time. Celebrating small achievements helps you stay motivated.
3. Use Online Resources
Most online universities provide recorded lectures, discussion forums, and digital libraries to help students stay engaged. Platforms like Moodle, Blackboard, and Google Classroom allow you to interact with lecturers and classmates.
4. Talk to Your Employer
If your degree relates to your job, discuss it with your employer. Some companies offer flexible work hours or tuition support for employees studying relevant courses. Businesses like Standard Bank and Nedbank offer bursaries for employees studying finance-related degrees.
Is it Worth It?
For many people, the answer is yes. A part-time online degree allows you to get a valuable qualification while keeping your job. However, it takes self-discipline and good time management to succeed.
If you want to study while working, improve your career prospects, and earn a degree without financial stress, a part-time online degree might be the best decision for your future.