Part-Time Study

Good to Know

The combined study program integrates the advantages of on-campus study and online components (30%). The block schedule of classes on Fridays (from noon), Saturdays (all day), and one block week (1st-3rd semester) provides ideal conditions for part-time study.

Hand on Heart: How often have you wondered why you took on the combination of work and study?

There are times during the studies when I question my decision to study part-time, especially during stressful periods when something unexpected happens with my children or when the workload increases significantly. The thought of being a role model for my children and gaining higher qualifications in the workplace through the study keeps me motivated to continue.

What rules should part-time students absolutely adhere to from your perspective?

Organization is crucial, and having a support network — whether from the university, the employer, or especially from my family — is extremely valuable. It’s important to plan your time well and seek help when needed. Discipline and perseverance are essential in part-time studies ;-)

How do you experience collaboration among students in your program?

At FH Upper Austria — both during my previous Bachelor's studies in Public Management (PUMA) and now in the GSP Master’s program — I have experienced a supportive community where we help each other, such as through joint studying or sharing notes. I also believe that through the studies, we develop our strengths and new skills that help us grow individually and as a group.

What was different about the part-time study compared to what you initially thought, and where did you have to adjust your perspective?

I had to learn to set priorities and use the time I have left after family, work, and study as effectively as possible. I also had to adjust my expectations of myself and accept that not everything has to be perfect. It’s a constant balancing act, but over time, I am learning to be flexible and forgiving with myself, which in turn gives me new energy to continuously develop.

Simone Mayr-Kirchberger BA has been working as a Press Spokesperson for the Upper Austria State Police Department for ten years. The 38-year-old mother of two girls aged four and six has been married since 2015. Her family is also enriched by two dogs and a cat. Since the spring of 2023, she has discovered a new hobby in beekeeping.

Hand on Heart: How often have you wondered why you took on the combination of work and study?

There have certainly been moments when I thought it would be great to spend the weekend with family and friends and enjoy some leisure time. But I think that’s quite normal. However, the benefits of combining work and study outweigh this for me. I can apply what I’ve learned in practice and use it for my career development.

What rules should part-time students absolutely adhere to from your perspective?

It’s important to plan learning and tasks carefully. I recommend completing tasks promptly. It’s motivating to be able to tick off successfully completed tasks. This also helps avoid becoming overwhelmed.

How do you experience collaboration among students in your program?

The collaboration with my peers is extremely positive. Our group consists of individuals from various professional fields. The exchange and collaboration are very enriching and motivating for me. This is definitely an important aspect of a successful study experience.

What was different about the part-time study compared to what you initially thought, and where did you have to adjust your perspective?

Overall, my expectations and assumptions have been largely met. The various courses have sparked an interest in topics that I hadn’t considered strongly before the study.

Stefan Langfellner BA is responsible for human resource management, recruiting, and special personnel at a social enterprise.