Working while in grad school?

[cake268]

How realistic is it to work while in a master's program (MPP and MPA)? Of course, this assumes going full-time. Is it realistic to want to work part-time, and are there typically positions available on campus (RA-type positions)? How realistic is it to expect to find paid internships during the summer months versus the unpaid ones I've done as an undergrad and recent grad? Obviously a lot of this depends on my motivation, qualifications, etc. But maybe some general opinions will help me out.

Same question about PhD programs. I've been accepted to one program that has no funding for the first year, with guaranteed funding after that for students in good standing. How realistic is it to think that I might be able to find a part-time job that I can balance with the first year program, before I get a TAship or similar in the following years? Is it realistic to think I can work during the summers, or are TA-ships year round and/or are people expected to be doing research and other tasks during this time (social science PhD program, FWIW)?

Both of these questions are factoring into whether I accept the PhD program offer or go for an MPP and reapply from a stronger position (better grades, an MA under my belt, etc) in a couple of years.

[matcha]

I have a similar question. The lady I've been communicating with at my top choice has told me there are plenty of on-campus jobs. But how reasonable is it to try and carry work and studies for an MPA/MPP?

[DariaIRL]

(speaking in reference to your PhD scenario)

It's not impossible to work a real (that is, non-academic, off-campus) job while you're in grad school. Typically, your required (hard) courses happen within the first 1-2 years though. If you are able, attend the first quarter (or some other length of time) and see if the coursework and research expectations, etc are doable before you add a real job in the mix.

Also, your message didn't specify, but could you look to other grad departments at your school for RA/TA funding? If your own program isn't offering you anything for that first year, you should be able to look elsewhere. It'll broaden your experience, and get you paid while you wait for that second year when you would get department funding.