It’s a question many professionals ask: can I realistically study while working full-time? At University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education (PACE), the answer is a confident yes.
Whether you're advancing in your current role, pivoting career, or simply pursuing a passion, our part-time postgraduate degrees are designed to fit around your life, not the other way around.
How part-time Cambridge Master’s programmes are structured
Our part-time Master’s programmes are built for working professionals. You’ll find a thoughtful blend of:
- Residential blocks: intensive, in-person sessions held in Cambridge, typically a few times a year. These immersive experiences foster deep learning and connection through networking with peers and expert academics.
- Online elements: between residentials, you’ll engage with course materials, discussions, and any assignments remotely.
- Supervision and support: you’ll be guided by expert supervisors who understand the demands of professional life and help you stay on track.
This structure allows you to maintain your commitments while progressing through a rigorous academic programme.
Explore our Master’s courses for more details.
Real-life examples: balancing study and work
Cambridge learners come from every sector. Healthcare, education, finance, tech, the arts and bring with them a wide range of responsibilities. Some are parents. Some are carers. Most are juggling busy lives.
Cassie, who studied on the Master’s in History of Art and Visual Culture, and is a Cambridge academic and tutor, shares:
“Alongside my busy academic role, I’m also a carer for my mother, who has dementia, and I offer respite support to my father on weekends. The structure of this programme makes it possible to pursue my passion without compromising my responsibilities.”
Kristina, a graduate of the Master’s in Coaching, echoes this:
“The part-time structure is exactly what I need, it allows me to fully engage with my studies while managing my full-time work responsibilities.”
Cambridge’s flexible postgraduate study options are built for real life.
Why combine study with professional practice?
Studying while working isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
- Immediate application: what you learn in sessions and course materials can be applied directly to your work.
- Employer support: many employers value the fresh insights and advanced skills their staff bring back from Cambridge. You may even wish to discuss the possibility of study leave or financial support with your employer.
- Career development: a Cambridge Master’s can open doors, whether you're aiming for promotion, switching sectors, or deepening your expertise.
Support for part-time Master’s students at Cambridge
You won’t be doing this alone. PACE offers a robust support system:
- Academic tutors who understand the pressures of working life.
- Peer networks that connect you with fellow professionals across industries.
- Support from your Cambridge college, where you’ll join an interdisciplinary network of learners from a wide range of subject areas. You can find out more about college support in this video.
- Resources including libraries, online platforms, and wellbeing services.
You’ll be part of a community that respects your commitments and helps you thrive.
Our part-time Master’s degrees are ideal for:
- Professionals seeking career advancement or specialisation.
- Career changers looking to pivot with purpose.
- Adult learners returning to study after time away.
- Employers investing in staff development.
Practical tips part-time Master’s success
Balancing work and study takes planning. Here are some strategies:
- Time management: block out regular study slots and protect them. Use tools like calendars and task managers to stay organised.
- Employer engagement: talk to your manager early. Many are supportive and may offer flexibility or resources.
- Study strategies: focus on active learning by summarising readings, discuss ideas with peers, and apply concepts to your work.
Remember, you’re not alone, PACE’s structure and support are designed to help you succeed.
Ready to combine your career with further study?
Our part-time postgraduate programmes are built for people like you. Ambitious, busy, and ready to grow.
Explore our Master’s portfolio to find the right course for your journey.
Learning is life. Wherever you are, whatever your ambition, come and do it with us.
Not quite ready to start your Master’s journey? We also offer a large portfolio of undergraduate courses which are online, part-time. Why not explore our Weekend or Short online courses first.