How to Juggle Full-Time Work While Earning Your Teaching License
| by Kyle Freelander
For career changers pursuing a teaching license, balancing work, life, and study can feel daunting. Fortunately, with a flexible teacher preparation program like the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program from Moreland University, it’s possible to succeed without putting your career or personal life on hold.
If you’re wondering how to manage it all, here are practical strategies to balance full-time work with a teacher preparation program.
1. Choose a Flexible Teacher Preparation Program
A program that fits your schedule is essential. Moreland offers an entirely online teacher preparation program, allowing career changers to study at their own pace. Unlike traditional programs with rigid schedules, Moreland’s platform lets you access coursework whenever it suits you — before work, during lunch breaks, or in the evenings. This flexibility enables you to keep your job while working toward certification.
2. Create a Realistic Schedule
Many underestimate the time needed for coursework. Take an honest look at your schedule and identify dedicated study blocks — early mornings, weekends, or evenings. Make sure to account for breaks and personal time to avoid burnout.
Moreland has rolling admissions and monthly start dates — making it easy for you to get started and work with (not against) your other responsibilities. Plus, with a 100% online format, Moreland’s programs give you the freedom to design a study schedule that fits your lifestyle.
3. Set Clear Goals and Milestones
One of the best ways to stay motivated and on track is to set clear goals and milestones. Rather than looking at the entire program as one massive challenge, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks. For example, you might aim to complete a certain number of modules or assignments each week or month.
Having these milestones will help you monitor your progress and give you a sense of accomplishment along the way. Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is organized into 8 modules, making it easy to measure progress and stay focused on reaching your goals.
4. Prioritize Time Management
Time management is crucial when juggling work and study. Planners, calendars, or productivity apps are great tools to stay on track.
Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique — studying in focused 25-minute intervals with breaks — can help you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed by long study sessions. By managing your time efficiently, you’ll find it easier to balance your work obligations with your teacher preparation program.
5. Leverage Support Systems
You don’t have to do this alone. It’s important to lean on your support systems, whether that’s your family, friends, or colleagues. Let those around you know about your goals and ask for their understanding and support as you work toward your teaching license.
Moreland candidates and alumni have access to a supportive network of instructors, mentors, and fellow career changers. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructors if you need guidance or clarification on course material and take advantage of opportunities to connect with peers who are also juggling full-time work and study.
6. Take Care of Your Well-being
Balancing work, study, and personal life can be draining, which is why self-care is vital. Prioritize your mental and physical health by ensuring you’re getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and making time for relaxation. Taking care of yourself will help you maintain the energy and focus needed to successfully complete your program and continue excelling at work.
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, consider breaking your tasks down even further or adjusting your schedule to allow for more rest. Remember, it’s important to pace yourself to avoid burnout.
7. Stay Focused on Your ‘Why’
During challenging moments, remember why you chose this path in the first place. Whether it’s your passion for teaching, the desire to make a difference in students’ lives, or the fulfillment of a long-held dream, keeping your long-term goals in mind will help you stay motivated.
The journey to becoming a teacher is rewarding, and with the flexibility and support provided by Moreland University’s online programs, it’s entirely achievable.
Experience the Moreland Difference
Earning a teaching license while working full-time is challenging but achievable with the right approach and a flexible program like Moreland’s. By choosing a program that fits your lifestyle, managing time effectively, and prioritizing well-being, you can successfully transition into a rewarding teaching career.
Ready to take the next step? Moreland University’s programs offer the flexibility and support you need to succeed while continuing to work full-time. Complete your no-cost application today (in less than 15 minutes).
