mother and daughter celebrating at commencement

There are many reasons moms and single moms choose to go back to school. Maybe you’re motivated to make a career transition that will help you better provide for your family. Or perhaps you’re finally ready to finish the educational path you had to take a detour from years ago.

Whatever inspired your journey, you’re taking a step toward your future and showing your children what’s possible. You have the determination to turn this ambition into achievement, and every step forward will be worth it. 

In this guide, you’ll gain practical advice and key takeaways to help you confidently navigate your path back to higher education. 

How To Decide If Right Now is the Right Time

Before deciding on going back to school as a single mom or a mom, take some time to reflect on these questions:

  • Why do you want to go back to school, and what outcomes do you want?

What’s your end goal? Are you looking for a career change, higher earning potential, or a chance to set an example for your kids? Having a crystal-clear goal will keep you motivated through all those late-night study sessions.

  • Do you have reliable childcare?

Think through both your daily routines and emergency backups. Do you have consistent care during study hours or exam weeks?

  • What would a realistic schedule look like for you?

Look at your typical week. Be honest about where coursework will fit into your days and whether you have the physical energy to add another commitment.

Map out a rough routine. Will you study early in the morning before the kids wake up, on weekend afternoons, or late at night after bedtime?

Keep in mind, it’s not just about finding big blocks of time. Regularly using short windows of time to study, such as on your lunch break, adds up over time.

  • What can you give up to gain time?

Success in school likely requires making some trade-offs. What non-essentials — such as Netflix binges, extra volunteer work, or social media scrolling — can take a backseat for a while?

Did you know? According to recent research, the average American spends 3.7 hours per day watching television and an additional 2 hours and 23 minutes on social media. 

Redirecting one hour of screen time per day toward your coursework — totaling seven hours per week — would allow you to make meaningful progress toward your degree completion. 

  • What can’t you give up?

Identify your non-negotiables. Keeping routines such as family dinners, dedicated time with your kids, or minimum sleep requirements will keep you grounded and healthy.

  • Do you have a support system to lean on?

Who can you count on when things get overwhelming? Whether it’s family, supportive friends, or student support groups, having a supportive network makes all the difference.

How UMass Global Supports Single Moms Going Back to School

UMass Global has a longstanding history of providing accessible online education, making it a top choice of online schools for moms and single moms.

  • Flexible ways to learn: UMass Global offers two distinct learning formats: instructor-led programs featuring structured schedules and live interaction, and UMass Global MyPath, a self-paced option designed for students who want to control their own timeline. Get the details on the differences between the two and which might be right for you.
  • Designed for working adults: With over 95% of our students working while studying, we build programs around real-world workplace needs using flexible online formats, backwards course design, and faculty who have real-world experience and expertise.
    • What do we mean by backwards course design? That means we look at the job/career/industry first, then reverse-engineer the coursework to include the job-ready skills and knowledge you need to make an immediate, invaluable impact in the workforce.
  • Proven student success and satisfaction: We’re dedicated to supporting adult learners through practical, career-oriented curriculum, a commitment validated by our high graduation rates and overwhelming student satisfaction. In fact, 92% of our alumni say they would recommend UMass Global to a friend, family member, or colleague.
  • Academic support: Take advantage of tutoring centers, writing assistance, and student orientation programs to brush up on study skills and tackle tough assignments. Your academic advisor can also help you stay on track for graduation with personalized course planning. At UMass Global, we offer dedicated support from application to graduation.
  • Well-being support: Juggling multiple roles can be taxing, but counseling and wellness resources are there to help you manage stress, avoid burnout, and maintain a healthy mental state throughout your studies. Support services to consider include in-person and virtual counseling, peer-led support groups, stress management workshops, and guided relaxation apps. UMass Global offers a number of clubs and communities to join such as the Pregnant and Parenting Scholars Organization, Social Work Student Association, and more.
  • Career support: Prepare for your next professional chapter by tapping into career services for resume reviews, interview coaching, and job placement assistance. You can also tap into the university’s alumni network to build professional connections and open doors in your field. UMass Global’s AI-Powered Career Services Hub can assist with polishing your resume, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, interview prep and more. One-on-one virtual sessions with UMass Global career coaches are also available to students.
  • Access and flexibility: Colleges offer specialized accessibility services to ensure all students have equal learning opportunities, alongside flexible online options that fit your life. Best of all, schools geared toward adult learners have faculty and staff who understand real-life demands and offer grace and support when life gets interrupted. The Office of Accessible Education (OAE) at UMass Global is dedicated to making sure every student has equal access to learning and academic opportunities.

Ready to make school fit into your life?

Going back to school is a life-changing step, and timing matters. Assessing your readiness isn't about waiting for the timing to be perfect; as a parent, a completely clear calendar rarely exists. Instead, it’s about ensuring you have a solid foundation in place so you can succeed without burning out.

As you plan your next step, check out our other resources for moms returning to school:

**Check out our stats and sources at www.umassglobal.edu/sources

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UMass Global offers a wide variety of degree programs for adult learners. Explore your options and find a degree that fits you. 

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