Compatibility of studies and work

Studying and working part-time is a reality and a financial necessity for many students. However, not everyone is able to combine a course of study with paid employment in the same way. It varies from person to person and depends heavily on the practical orientation of the university, the course of study and the phase of study.

At the University of Bern, many study programmes are geared towards full-time study. For this reason, it is often not easy to combine work and a course of study.

The Bachelor's programme does not offer as much freedom in putting together a timetable. This makes it difficult to combine a course of study with paid employment.

It is usually easier to pursue paid work on a part-time basis in the Master's programme. This is especially advantageous for those who return to a course of study during or after a period of professional work. This way you can still work part-time and do not have to give up your financial independence.

Part-time courses of study are encouraged in practice-oriented degree programmes, such as those at the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) and the Bern University of Teacher Education (PHBern). For example, many of the Bachelor's courses of study at BFH are also available on a part-time basis. However, the exact framework conditions differ depending on the degree programme and institute.

• Many of the Bachelor's courses of study at the Bern University of Applied Sciences are available on a part-time basis.
• At the Bern University of Teacher Education, it is possible to study on a part-time basis in all degree programmes.

You can find more information on the webpages of both universities.

• Bern University of Applied Sciences – Studies – Study at BFH – Content + structure 
• Bern University of Teacher Education – Studies – Part-time studies (German only)

A part-time job as part of a «study job» is often an important prerequisite or even the decisive financial basis for a course of study. But it often means much more. It allows you to gain valuable experience for a later career or to make useful contacts.

• Depending on your interests and abilities, there is a wide range of part-time employment opportunities.
  
• However, you will need a good deal of personal initiative.
  
• When starting a career, work experience gained during your studies often increases your chances of finding employment.

The disadvantage of a part-time job during your studies is that it often results in an extension of your period of study. Depending on your workload, it is therefore advisable to clarify the possible consequences for the course of studies with the student advisor. A workload of 25% or more is usually recognised as a reason for extending the period of study.