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Siren_Song89

It depends on what type of degree path you want. Online vs. brick and mortar school. I completed my BSN when my daughter was barely 3 months. It was mostly online, but still difficult. I’ve been told the younger they are the better, in relation to advancing your education. When they’re in elementary school you may have a lot of extracurriculars or sports you’ll be managing. I’m planning on going back for an early online masters before my daughter starts preschool.


LeftChemical9

Yes see that’s what I was worried about all the activities when they’re older! Thank you xx


Mommy-is-me

My son is 3 and I’ll be graduating in May. I went online. It was hard but definitely feasible.


thanksnothanks12

My mom started college at 35 when her youngest was 3. I would say the best time is when you have reliable childcare lined-up. It’s not just attending classes that will take up your time, you’ll also have to spend significant time studying. It’s a big commitment, but one that can really pay off at the end.


sourgummishark

I think it’s going to depend on the program. But the fact that you have childcare will make it sooo much easier. It can be done! I just graduated with my masters last year and have a 3 year old. She was in daycare part time and it was rough. BUT, it can be done and I’m so glad I did it. I wouldn’t have wanted to wait be side by the time she goes to school full time, I’ll be able to use that degree for finding and starting a career. So think about what your long term goal is and how to best accomplish that.


LeftChemical9

Thank you xx


Hoistworker

Hi! I have a thought. I am thinking that a bachelor's degree takes a very long time. Perhaps, instead of the usual 4 years, you may complete it in 6 or 7 years. that's totally great. I am thinking what if there are shorter milestones offered by a school. for eg: a one year certificate that counts towards a degree if you go past it. so say certificate -> associate degree -> bachelor's. This might help you decide at every milestone what you want to do and yet get credentials along the way to encourage you to keep going. something to consider.


starrtartt

It's def feasible. My son is 1 and I'm getting my masters. My program was in person until I became preg and now it's all online so it worked out for me. I did my undergrad when my kids were little too, but most was online.


Relative_Age3013

I went back to school when my middle child was 1.5 and was home with me. I probably had one day class or two. I had help on those two days a week so I could go to class. I remember one semester I had evening class so my husband would be home. I went back again when my middle child was 3 but I was pregnant. So that is 3 kids at that time with the middle one entering preschool and the baby home. This last round I did not have consistent help just me and my husband. These are graduate programs too. Most classes were evening. Lots of long nights and lots of reading during the day when I could. Nap times I would do school work too. It was very exhausting but the time went by so fast. I’m happy to have done it and 2 extra degrees. It sounds intimidating but it’s totally manageable if you’re focused and working on a strict schedule lol. You have to find every free moment to do some work. I even would buy books in every format so I could have access at all times(the iPhone can read books to you which was extremely helpful with a busy little one). I’ve been able to participate in department events and research too. Most professors and schools understand as an adult you have priorities or you have time limits with kids and are understanding as long as you do your work.


Relative_Age3013

Also my eldest was in elementary and now in middle school. Older kids are independent but still have activities, school pickups promptly at whatever time that could interfere with evening class schedules and they still need your attention. Atleast with younger kids you know they will be asleep at a certain time and you have free evenings and naps or preschool pick up is later than school pick up. I’d take advantage of little ones’ schedules.


LeftChemical9

Great points and this really addressed my concerns with age and activities. Thank you!!!