Students
Part-Time Studies
Are you ready for part-time studies at SFU? It's important to analyze your resources and your goals before making a commitment to university-level studies. The following should help you review and clarify:
- your goals and objectives
- your commitment of time, energy and motivation
- the level of support you can expect from family, friends, and your co-workers
- your academic preparation
Goals and Objectives
Earning a university degree is a prestigious educational accomplishment. It also requires a commitment of time and energy. And it's not always the right credential to meet your needs.
- Why do you want to return to formal study?
- Is a university degree a useful investment for you? Would a degree likely lead you toward your career and personal goals?
- Is your career advancement limited by a lack of formal education or a credential?
- Will having a university degree help you become more self-confident?
- What other benefits do you anticipate from university study?
Time, Energy and Motivation
Time spent in the classroom is only the beginning of your studies. For each hour spent in class, expect to spend a minimum of three hours outside class in reading and studying. Additional study time maybe needed for completing assignments, projects and papers, as well as preparing for examinations.
- Could you reorganize your time to accommodate the time required?
- Can you reorganize your week to set aside at least nine-ten hours (per course) in addition to class time on a regular basis?
- If needed, could you find extra hours to study for exams, complete assignments, or master work that is particularly difficult for you?
Support from Family and Friends
Taking on the obligations of a university student may mean significantly changing your life. You may no longer have the same amount of time for your family, friends or work-related activities. If the people around you are prepared to accept these changes and to support you as you pursue your goal, you are much more likely to be successful your studies.
- What will your new obligations as a student mean to those who are important to you?
- Have you discussed your study-time requirements with the people who will be most affected?
Academic Preparation
Knowing how to study effectively is an essential skill. Your course requirements may include a combination of quizzes, papers, presentations, projects, group work, and examinations.
- Have you recently undertaken any other educational programs?
- Did you enjoy being a student in the past?
- Are you capable of analyzing what you read, recognizing the major points, seeing how the argument is developed, and judging whether or not the conclusions are justified?
- Do you know the strengths and weaknesses of your writing skills?
This self-assessment guide is adapted from an Athabasca University questionnaire.
"You're never quite sure if you have the academic abilities to do something like finish a degree until you actually do it. And once you suddenly realize that not only have you got the ability, but you actually can rise above where you thought you were, it's great."
Chris Badger
Vice-President, Customer Development & Operations
Vancouver Port Authority