Working part-time alongside your studies: things to consider

Posted on by Careers Service

Have you thought about getting a part-time job? This blog considers the benefits and things to consider. 

Why work part-time? 

For many students, the opportunity to earn some extra cash is the main draw of part-time work. However, there are several other benefits. You can: 

Student ambassador working at a Bristol open day, talking to a group of visitors.
Student Ambassador working at a University of Bristol open day
  • Develop your skills and confidence 
  • Gain experience for your CV 
  • Meet new people 
  • Practice job searching, writing applications and interviews
  • Get first-hand experience of a working environment 
  • Potentially get a “foot in the door”, and make connections with people in a sector that you might want to work in longer term 

Things to consider 

How much time do you have available? Part-time work mustn’t impact your studies. To get the balance right, the University advises working no more than 15 hours per week in term-time for undergraduates, or 20 hours for postgraduate students.  

Regular or flexible hours? Some jobs have set hours, whilst some are more changeable. Weigh up the benefit of a regular wage versus flexibility around other commitments. 

What roles would suit me? What skills do you have that might be useful in a part-time job? What would I enjoy doing? See exploring career ideas: understanding yourself for support with these questions. 

What do I want to gain or develop? From transferable skills and attributes (e.g. communication, problem solving, using initiative, resilience) to more technical skills, consider roles that may help you to develop in different areas. See top skills employers look for when you graduate. Also, see the researching sectors and employers guide for ways to identify skills relevant to any future career interests you have.  

A customer being served at a cafe by a male cafe worker.
Photo by Blake Wisz on Unsplash

In person, remote or hybrid? The nature of the job may impact whether you need to work in person, or whether working at home is an option. 

Employed or freelance? Whilst many students work for an employer, some offer their skills on a freelance basis. This could mean more flexibility and choice in your work. 

Any visa restrictions? International students should check their visa’s terms before applying for part-time work. You will also need a National Insurance Number to work in the UK. See the guide for international students for further information. 

What adjustments might help me? If you’re a disabled or neurodivergent student, consider whether you might need adjustments. This could be when applying for, or when you’re in a job. See advice for disabled and neurodivergent students to consider what you might need and how to ask for it. 

What kinds of part-time jobs could I do? 

Here are some common areas for part-time work: 

  • Hospitality, retail and other service-based jobs are common. There are many opportunities in Bristol in these sectors. 
  • Admin jobs can also use skills developed whilst studying. Administrative experience in a professional context could also be useful for future applications for office-based roles. 
  • Education and childcare jobs such as babysitting, nursery worker, tutoring and teaching assistant. 
  • Health and social care such as working in a care home or healthcare assistant roles. 
  • Marketing and social media, such as copywriting and social media marketing. These can be a great way to apply social media skills in a professional context. 
  • Jobs on campus are popular and can come up throughout the year. Examples include: Student Ambassador, PASS Leader, working in Sports Exercise and Health, Global Lounge Ambassador, Telephone fundraiser, Careers Ambassador, BILT Student Fellow, Senior Resident and Sustainability Champion. Many (but not all) roles advertise in Spring to start the following academic year. 

You could see if there are opportunities related to a graduate career you are exploring. See our work experience and internships guide for help with finding relevant opportunities. 

See this list of student jobs you probably haven’t considered for further inspiration. 

Where can I find part-time jobs? 

Visit the part-time work page for sources of part-time jobs.  

  • If they don’t have anything advertised, you can also reach out to employers. This could be with a speculative application or by visiting them at their premises.  
  • Finally, recruitment agencies or reaching out to people in your network (if applicable) and asking if they’re aware of any roles you could apply for. 

Know your rights 

Make sure you know your rights for part-time work, including pay, tax, holidays and contracts and where to ask for help. See this article on your part-time worker employment rights (TargetJobs) for answers to common questions. 

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