Key Considerations To Make When Going Back To School As A Mom

If you’re a dedicated mom who is considering taking the major and courageous step of going back to school, then this post is for you. No matter your reasons for wanting to further your education, you are not alone in feeling both motivated and apprehensive (or maybe even terrified) about the prospect of enrolling in post-secondary courses at this stage of your life.

Benefits of higher education, such as a more fulfilling career and a higher salary, have the potential to improve your life and the lives of your children over the long term, but there’s no doubt there will be sacrifices along the way. Juggling kids, coursework, and potentially a full or part-time job is no easy undertaking, and student-parents must be realistic in preparing for the challenges (as well as the many rewards) that lie ahead on the road to a degree or diploma.

Based on decades of experience working first-hand with countless moms who have had the determination and tenacity to successfully earn a diploma at Robertson College while also actively parenting, we’ve put together a list of nine key considerations to keep in mind as you explore the possibility of becoming a student once again. For further questions and information, reach out to one of our experienced and highly qualified Student Advisors.

Key Takeaways

• Going back to school as a mom is a major life decision that requires motivation, courage, and determination.
• The number of moms enrolled in post-secondary programs across Canada has increased over the past several decades, and many institutions, like Robertson College, are dedicated to supporting this demographic with flexible learning options and personalized guidance.
• Some important considerations to keep in mind when going back to school as a mom include:
  • Cultivating an active support network
  • Being careful of logistical issues
  • Being realistic about timelines
  • Looking into financial aid opportunities
  • Considering hybrid/online programs or other flexible learning options
  • Considering the benefits of a diploma or certificate program vs. an undergraduate degree
  • Developing organizational systems
  • Creating a proper study schedule and space
  • Being willing to make sacrifices
• For further information about Robertson College’s industry-recognized diploma programs, flexible learning formats, and student support, contact a Student Advisor today.

9 Important Considerations To Make When Going Back To School As A Mom

The number of student-parents enrolled in post-secondary institutions in Canada increased by 111% between the years 1976-2005 and, according to the most recent available statistics, accounts for a significant 11-16% of post-secondary student populations across the country. 

The data above highlights the ever-increasing numbers of moms who are successfully overcoming the challenges of returning to school post-children in order to achieve their educational and professional dreams. If you are inspired to join them, here are some valuable considerations to keep in mind along the way:

1. An Active Support Network Makes A Huge Difference

It is said that it takes a village to raise a child, and never is this more true than when mom goes back to school. From providing physical and emotional care to helping with homework, running errands, prepping meals, and much more, moms do a tremendous amount every day. When you’re busy with classes, assignments, and exams, you’ll need others to step up and take on some of the responsibility.

As you prepare to pursue further education, it will almost certainly be vital to cultivate new supports and reach out directly to existing ones. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need and accept help as it is offered. Having an active support network can make the difference between staying afloat throughout your studies and being too overwhelmed to excel. Allow those who love you to be there for you and your children as you work toward achieving new professional horizons!

Consider This:

• Who are the people in your support network?
• What responsibilities can they realistically take on?
• What new relationships might you need to cultivate to ensure that you’ll have all the support you need to begin attending classes?

2. Consider Logistics Carefully

As you research your educational options, carefully evaluate the logistical benefits each institution/program has to offer. As a student-parent, logistics are key, and you may be able to obtain the same credential in a variety of different ways at different institutions—some more compatible with your parenting lifestyle and some less. For obvious reasons, many parents prefer post-secondary programs that:

• Cater to part-time learners and/or mature learners
• Offer hybrid or online learning formats
• Provide flexibility in program scheduling (e.g. half-day classes, evening classes)
• Offer personalized support and guidance

Consider This:

• In terms of logistics, what would your ideal program look like? When and how would classes be scheduled? What would the total program timeline be?
• What institutional supports would you appreciate (e.g. on-campus childcare, personal relationships with student advisors and instructors)?
• Which educational institution provides the best logistical fit for your needs?

3. Be Realistic About The Timeline

Earning a post-secondary credential doesn’t happen overnight, and for moms considering a return to school, it’s essential to be informed and realistic about the length of time the total process may take. Ensure that you understand exactly what’s involved in completing the program you are interested in—from the application process right through to the coursework and practicum—and plan accordingly. Undoubtedly, there will be many moving parts to organize in your life, and the more you know about what to expect along the way, the more prepared you and your family will be.

At Robertson College, completing post-secondary coursework doesn’t have to be a race. We are proud to offer our students a variety of flexible learning options designed so that they can live while they study. That being said, excellent time management and a realistic projection of the timeline from application to graduation will help to eliminate stress and keep expectations realistic for the journey ahead.

Consider This:

• What is the projected timeline for the program you are interested in completing from application to graduation?
• Are certain aspects of the program timeline (e.g. the practicum) less flexible than others? How can you plan accordingly to mitigate stress for your family?

4. Look Into Financial Aid Opportunities

Post-secondary education comes with a significant price tag, and seeking out financial aid opportunities can help ease the burden for moms returning to school. At Robertson College, our Student Advisors are available to walk you through funding options, including government grants, student loans, bank or credit union financing, flexible payment options, and more. We want you to feel confident investing in your future and are committed to helping you find the tuition assistance option that best fits your situation as a student-parent.

Consider This:

• What types of payment options will allow you to maintain the greatest level of financial stability during your return to post-secondary learning?

5. Consider Hybrid Or Online Programs For Flexible Learning

Entering a full-time, on-campus post-secondary program may feel overwhelming or even impossible as a mom. Exploring alternative options, such as part-time, online, or hybrid courses that will allow you to pursue your studies on a schedule that is more aligned with your obligations to your family, can make post-secondary studies feel much more attainable. At Robertson College, we offer a variety of flexible program formats to accommodate all students and their learning styles. Learn more here about our online courses in Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and beyond!

Consider This:

• What learning formats (on-campus, hybrid, online) will best suit your lifestyle as a mom?

6. Diploma Certificate Programs Can Upskill You Faster

For many moms, the prospect of a full-time 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree seems like an eternity. While nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it, a diploma or certificate program may provide you with relevant, competitive professional skills in a shorter period of time.

Robertson College’s industry-recognized, in-demand diploma programs are designed to prepare graduates to enter the workforce within approximately 1 year or less (program lengths range from 5-19 months). Contact a Student Advisor to learn more about our streamlined programs in health, technology, community services, and business administration in Calgary, Edmonton, and Winnipeg.

Consider This:

• What type of post-secondary credential (college degree, diploma, certificate) will offer you the most benefit for your time?

7. Good Organization Is Key To Success

Being organized is a vital aspect of success for any post-secondary student, and especially for moms returning to school. Stepping back into the classroom can quickly lead to overwhelm without clear organizational systems in place. It may seem self-evident, but avoiding procrastination, staying on top of deadlines, and maintaining focus during scheduled study periods are all core elements of achieving academic success.

Consider This:

• What organizational systems can you put in place to ensure that you’ll be able to stay on top of your responsibilities both academically and at home?

8. Create A Proper Study Schedule And Space

Studying at the kitchen table surrounded by family members and all the distractions of home life isn’t conducive to productive learning for most moms. In contrast, creating a proper study schedule and a dedicated space where you can focus—be it a home office, coffee shop, or carrel at your local library—can be an incredibly effective way to separate yourself from mom duties and maximize your study time.

Consider This:

• What times in the week make the most sense to dedicate to studying based on your family’s needs and routines?
• Where can you go to increase your concentration and focus?

9. You Will Have To Make Sacrifices

Most prospective student-parents implicitly understand that pursuing a post-secondary credential will require sacrifice—just like becoming a parent in the first place. Staying focused on your goals and prioritizing quality over quantity when it comes to time spent with your children and loved ones can help mitigate temporary hardships related to finances, scheduling, family and social obligations, and more.

Consider This:

• What sacrifices are you willing/not willing to make in order to achieve your educational and professional goals?

Some Other Important Messages For Mothers

Going back to school as a mom isn’t easy, but there’s no doubt it is 100% attainable with proper support, planning, and hard work. The many moms currently enrolled at Robertson College and other post-secondary institutions across Canada are a testament to this fact!

In that vein, here are three more essential messages to keep in mind as you plan for a potential return to student life:

Don’t Be Afraid To Fail

Our weakest moments are often what strengthen us the most, so instead of letting your fear of failure prevent you from pursuing a post-secondary credential, let it propel you to succeed instead.

Remember Why You Started

Keep your end goal in mind every step of the journey. Let the mom guilt go and remember the strength you are modelling for your children and the better future you are building for them.

Your Hard Work Will Pay Off

A Harvard study revealed that daughters of working mothers complete more years of education and are more likely to be employed as adults with higher incomes than women from more traditional households. Your hard work will pay off, and pursuing a thriving career will benefit both you and your children in the long run.

Going Back To School With Confidence

From flexible learning formats to streamlined program timelines, Robertson College is dedicated to offering meaningful support to moms navigating the intense reality and unique challenges associated with pursuing a diploma while also parenting. We are deeply invested in the success of our students from all backgrounds and walks of life, and our compassionate and highly qualified Student Advisors are prepared to be by your side every step of your educational journey.

To learn more about returning to school as a mature student, read our post Going Back To School At 30.

To explore further questions related to enrolling at Robertson College as a mom and learn more about the admission process, contact one of our Student Advisors today. We look forward to helping you succeed!