Can I go to university if I have a two year old?

Question

I'm 18 and I have a two year old, he's my number one priority. Right now I'm going to college part time and working part time. My son has had to come to both college and work with my on several occasions because I was unable to get someone to look after him. I'm a single dad and financially I'm doing fine because I was left some properties and a business in a will. I was just wondering whether going to university would be too much strain, like I said my son is my top priority and I wouldn't want to jeopardize his health and happiness in anyway. I love being a dad and although I may not have the social life my friends have I wouldn't change it for the world. The business is pretty much run by other people, I only go into work 2-3 times a week to make sure everything is going OK and check things over.

Answer 1

Have you considered getting your degree online.

Answer 2

YES, definitely!

Most universities have childcare facilities. You say you don't like that idea, but at university you only have lectures and seminars for around 10-15 hours per week. Put him in the creche for that time, and keep him with you the rest of the time (might find you have to do your coursework and reading etc in the middle of the night or when he's napping, though).

OR, do you live near a university? Could you go to a local uni and leave your son with family for a few hours a week?

OR you could do a course with the Open University, so then you could do all of your work at home.

Answer 3

You need to make sure your priorities are correct first. Once sure that you can cope go for it while you are still young. However, bear in mind that by the time your boy reaches 4 years old he will need a lot more attention and will not let you have the peace you may need to study until he sleeps - so you will need help if attempting a degree because it requires a lot of hard work.    

Answer 4

I'm pretty sure you could. A lot of universities even have accommodation for people with children if you would rather live on campus (although as I understand it's very limited and there are often waiting lists). Have a look at courses on www.ucas.com, there are both part time and full time degrees. Also take a look at this website about student finance: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAnd...

However, I would also suggest that you may want to find a more permanent childcare position for your son while you're working/at university if you haven't thought about it already. Perhaps a childminder or nursery?

I'd also just like to say I think bringing up your son on your own is an amazing thing to do, I know a lot of guys who wouldn't do the same (although you're obviously a bit more stable financially). I hope you can work out something so you're able to go to uni.

Answer 5

you should go to uni, set a good example to your son and if you go to uni it will be whats best for him in the long run,  

Answer 6

Yes, of course. Many students do this and childcare can easily be arranged.

Answer 7

First of all, you're pretty darn amazing. I just earned my BA and I couldn't imagine having done it while being a single parent. Not that I don't think it's possible, though.

I was in class with a single parent once. Given, she was much older than you, but she often brought her 8 yr old and her toddler to class with her. It wasn't on a regular basis, but we all got used to seeing a stroller parked in the classroom corner.

Ask around at your school--you might be surprised by the resources available to parents. I know that my university used to offer a subsidized daycare program. And the daycare was across the street, which made it very convenient for everyone.

Also, a social life isn't all it's cracked up to be. I'm more of a quiet person and I don't really like bars/clubs. After two years of nagging from friends, I started going out every weekend. Let me tell you, after a few bad hangovers and way too many boring nights in boring clubs/bars/house parties, I'd had enough of that, too.

So, honestly? I don't think it'll be easy on you, but I think it's possible to manage if you plan carefully. Plus, as someone said, you're setting the example for your child. A college education is a GREAT example to set, plus you'll be in an even better position to care for your baby. :)

Also, look into online courses at universities. You might be able to do one or two courses online, while taking one or two classes on-campus.

The possibilities are there. You just need to find them.

I wish you all the best. :)

Answer 8

i would say wait till he can start going to nursery so you can have 9-5 or something like that studying or when he can start going school then do it because it would be to hard around the start also you can know he's learning while you are i hope you get the education you want

Answer 9

ive just completed a medical degree and there were a few people with young kids (admittedly they weren't single)  

Answer 10

hmm

if you struggle working part time and college part time, uni would be very difficult.

and maybe not the best for an single parent. with first year drunks and all that.

Answer 11

Yes you can go to uni.

You can go part time if you want. You will get extra finances for your child and a lot of universities have crèche facilities.

Answer 12

im startin uni nxt month my daughter is 2.  i am a single parent and although it will be hard, i am determined to do it. my daughter is starting nursery full time when i go and i know she will be safe while i study. in 3 years i will be a qualified nurse and i know the struggle will be worth it because i can give my daughter a better life. nothing should hold you back. my friends who are going also have young children. good luck and i hope you do it. x

Answer 13

As far as most schools go, you would be welcome.  My school even has a program offering scholarships and counseling for single parents, and it is very admirable that you are being both a dedicated father and a student.

However, if you don't have a relative who can watch your son while you are in class and you aren't willing to put him into childcare, I don't know how you would do it.  Most schools won't object if you bring your son in once or twice, but you can't bring a 2-year old to class on a regular basis.  You almost have to be willing to accept help with your child (and I agree that your friends are probably not mature enough) in order to make it work.  

The only thing I can think of is that if you find another parent at the school to which you are going and arrange that you will care for both of your children in the mornings (or Monday/Wednesday) while s/he takes care of them all in the afternoons (or Tuesday/Thursday), you could both fit your classes in.