Learning Online While Working Full Time
At South University, we offer a wide variety of fully online programs* designed to meet the needs of students who are juggling work, family, and education. For graduates like Vicki Copeland and Mellissa Swantner, the ability to learn online can be key to successfully earning a bachelor’s degree.
“While working as a medical assistant in a high school, I saw many challenges with the teens beyond healthcare. I reached out to an advisor here at South University and told them how I would like to help these children beyond just a Band-Aid,” Mellissa explains.
The Admissions team helped Mellissa explore her program options and understand what to expect from online learning. Ultimately, Mellissa decided to pursue her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at South University’s online programs and completed her degree in 2025. “South University online was a great way to earn your education while working full time, with a flexible learning platform,” she says.
Vicki Copeland likewise earned her degree online at South University while working full time, finishing her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management in 2026. “My experience was very positive, especially as a working adult,” Vicki shares. “The online courses were easy to manage and organized in a way that made the learning experience less overwhelming.”
Interacting with Faculty and Staff for Online Programs
Having helpful and accessible online faculty and staff was hugely important to both Vicki and Mellissa. “The faculty and staff at SU had a very positive impact on my educational journey and professional growth. Throughout my program, they were supportive, encouraging, and understanding of the challenges that come with balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities,” recalls Vicki. “Their encouragement helped me become more confident in both my professional abilities and my future career goals.”For Mellissa, knowing that she could easily reach out to her advisors was also a big benefit. “The staff at South University was always available to answer any questions,” she says.
Advice for Online Students
Even with an intuitive online learning platform and helpful faculty and staff, going to school as an adult while working full time still isn’t easy. For Mellissa, a big step was simply figuring out how to plan and arrange her day. Once she had that routine in place, things got easier.
“Box out time each day to devote to your studies that works best for your schedule. Always check the due dates of assignments each week, and follow all instructions carefully,” Mellissa advises. “If you find something you love doing, pursue exactly that and try your hardest to complete your goals each day.”
Vicki adds, “My advice for current students would be to stick with it, even during the challenging moments. Balancing school, work, family, and personal responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming, but staying focused on your goals and continuing forward is worth it in the end.”
Planning for the Future
Both Mellissa and Vicki graduated from their programs feeling ready to tackle the road ahead. For Mellissa, that means thinking about her next career move. “South University gave me the tools to better understand how to accomplish my goal of working in the field of psychology,” she explains.For Vicki, earning her degree in Healthcare Management has given her the tools to strengthen her performance as a Patient Access Supervisor with BJC Healthcare. It also aligns with her long-term professional goals to grow in the field. She shares, “South University successfully prepared me for my career by providing coursework that directly relates to my current role in healthcare leadership and management.”
Interested in Online Learning?
See how South University could help you achieve your goals. Explore our online degree programs today, or request information to talk to our Admissions team.Graduates, Tell Us Your Alumni Success Story!
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*Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person, practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion.
