Earning your degree online offers the flexibility to learn on your schedule—but it also requires discipline, planning, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities at once. Whether you’re balancing school with work, family, or both, it’s common to feel overwhelmed at times. The good news? You’re not alone—and there are practical strategies you can use to stay on track without burning out. Here’s how to navigate the workload of an online degree program while protecting your time, energy, and peace of mind.
Understand What to Expect from Online Courses
Before your first class begins, take time to review the course structure. At Kent State Online, most courses follow a consistent weekly format with activities like:
- Video lectures
- Readings
- Discussion posts and responses
- Assignments or projects
- Quizzes or exams
You can expect to spend 6–10 hours per week per course, depending on the subject and level. That’s why it’s important to plan your time realistically and anticipate busier weeks around exams or project deadlines.
Start with a Weekly Routine
Having a flexible schedule doesn’t mean you should wing it week to week. Set a consistent study routine to help reduce decision fatigue and stay focused. For example:
- Mondays: Watch lectures and review readings
- Tuesdays/Wednesdays: Draft discussion posts or assignments
- Thursdays: Respond to classmates and finalize work
- Sundays: Submit assignments and preview the week ahead
Blocking out time for coursework just like you would for work meetings or appointments helps you avoid falling behind.
Break It Down: Use Microtasks to Stay Focused
Large assignments or full weeks of reading can feel overwhelming. Try breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps using a to-do list or planner.
Instead of:
“Write 5-page paper”
Break it down into:
- Review prompt
- Research sources
- Outline sections
- Write intro and first section
- Edit and submit
Checking off small tasks gives you momentum—and makes big projects feel less intimidating.
Limit Distractions and Protect Your Time
When it’s time to study, treat it like a commitment to yourself. That means turning off notifications, closing extra browser tabs, and letting others know you’re focusing.
You can also use time management tools like:
- Pomodoro Method: 25 minutes of work, 5-minute break
- Forest App: Stay off your phone and grow a virtual tree
- Google Calendar: Block out time and set reminders
Protecting even an hour of focused time each day can make a big difference.
Know When to Ask for Help
Online students often feel like they have to juggle everything on their own—but you don’t. At Kent State Online, you have access to a wide range of student support resources, including:
- Academic advising
- Writing and tutoring support
- 24/7 tech help
- Faculty office hours and communication
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure, reach out. Your instructors and support staff are here to help you succeed—not just academically, but holistically.
Give Yourself Grace
Sometimes, life doesn’t go according to plan—and that’s okay. The ability to adjust, regroup, and continue moving forward is a powerful skill.
If you fall behind, don’t give up. Revisit your routine, revise your schedule, and lean on your support network. Remember: progress is still progress, even if it’s not perfect.
Thrive, Don’t Just Survive
With the right systems in place, an online degree can be a rewarding and empowering experience. By staying organized, planning ahead, and using the resources available to you, you can avoid overwhelm—and thrive throughout your program.
At Kent State Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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