Advice On Getting Support as a Student Parent

Online education provides a flexible alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar institutions, empowering adult learners to earn a degree while still balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities. Whether someone is a first-time student or resuming their studies after a break, earning a degree can open doors to career advancement, personal growth, and a higher salary. Many student parents are drawn to the flexibility of an online degree program but worry that they’ll feel disconnected or isolated without the traditional classroom environment. 

At WGU, students are supported through every step of the academic journey, from enrollment to graduation. WGU offers a variety of flexible options, including certificates and online master’s and bachelor's degrees that are designed to fit the lives of busy adults. The student experience at WGU is one marked by personalized guidance, encouragement, and a team spirit. If you’re a parent thinking about going back to school, keep reading to discover how WGU can help you achieve your goals through personalized guidance and a student-centered educational model. 

Finding Support as a Student Parent at WGU 

Earning a degree while raising children is no easy task. It takes planning, commitment, persistence, and the right support. WGU’s flexible master’s and bachelor's degrees have been developed with the needs of student parents and full-time workers in mind. Our unique competency-based educational model offers the flexibility parents require—without sacrificing the quality of their education. From day one, WGU students have access to support services that help them manage responsibilities, stay motivated, and continue progressing. Whether you’re working full-time, sharing family responsibilities with a spouse, or doing it all as a single parent, WGU’s degree programs are designed to help you keep making progress without feeling overwhelmed. 

1. Reach Out to Your Course Instructors 

Course Instructors can be valuable resources throughout your WGU experience. After all, they are experts in their field and know the subject matter better than anyone else. They can offer feedback, advice, and tools to help you succeed. All you need to do is reach out. Whether you need advice on how to pass a performance assessment, study for a test, or interpret task instructions or rubrics, your Course Instructors are just a few clicks away.

For WGU graduate Rachel Palmer, connecting with instructors was a game-changer. “Without their advice and instruction, I would not have finished my BSN,” she says. “Ask questions and follow their advice; they want to see you succeed as much as you do!” 

2. Utilize Your Program Mentor 

Every incoming WGU student is paired with a Program Mentor who provides one-on-one guidance throughout their studies. Program Mentors offer structure, reassurance, and a human connection that makes online learning a shared journey rather than an individual one. These dedicated professionals will assist you in designing an academic plan tailored to your unique needs and help you establish goals and benchmarks to stay on track. Throughout your degree program, they will serve as a source of information, advice, resources, and encouragement, regularly checking in with you and providing assistance with any challenges or questions you may have. Their role is central to WGU’s student-first model. 

As a college student and single parent of six children, WGU grad Lyndsie Jones says regular check-ins with her Program Mentor helped her stay grounded by setting small, achievable goals and making steady progress:  “Listening to my mentor was critical. I was overwhelmed every single day, but I knew if I did a little bit that my mentor asked me to complete, it would add up to finishing each step,” she says. 

Her advice to new student parents is this: “Talk to your mentor about the struggles you are facing. They often have resources. It can be hard, lonely, and awkward as a single parent, but finding a support system is critical. WGU is amazing at offering assistance to students.”   

3. Take Advantage of WGU Resources and Student Support 

In addition to Course Instructors and Program Mentors, WGU students have access to a wealth of student services and resources that can help them thrive, even while managing the demands of being both a student and a parent. Students can attend live cohort sessions, where they connect with other students, discuss questions and challenges with Course Instructors, and work through course material together.  These cohorts are a key aspect of WGU’s vibrant student communities. For those seeking additional support beyond course-specific challenges, academic coaching is available through the Student Success Center. Academic coaching can help you strengthen essential skills, such as writing and arithmetic, while also developing study habits, problem-solving abilities, and resilience. 

The Career Center offers students and alumni a range of career services to support them at every stage of their careers, including résumé development, interview preparation, networking, and job searching. At the WGU Library, students have 24/7 access to research tools, databases, e-books, and publications. 

Additionally, WGU recognizes that students often face challenges beyond academics or career development. That’s why we’ve partnered with student well-being and mental health support services to provide free access to counseling. 

4. Rely on a Supportive Partner 

Having a supportive partner can significantly impact your college experience, especially when juggling school, family, and other responsibilities. If you have a partner, rely on them, and don't feel guilty about asking them to handle more so you can concentrate on your education.

WGU grad Alice Strumski explains, “If I was doing an assignment, my husband might do the dishes that night. If my husband was looking through my work for typos, it was my turn to do the laundry.” She suggests having the kids pitch in, too. “My son picks up duties, including cooking, when one of us can't. Family, school, work, housework… it should always be a team effort. Ask for help. Don't think you can do everything alone,” says Alice.

5. Find a Support Network 

Friends and family members can be a huge source of support as you’re working toward your degree, and according to WGU grad Kimberly Nygren, they can also be your biggest cheerleader. “The day I found out I passed my last assessment and my capstone, I cheered for myself in the parking lot and then called my family and friends and let them cheer for me,” she says. She advises to “surround yourself with people who believe in you and who will support you on your journey. Believe in yourself as much as your support network does, because while you’re doubting yourself, someone else is admiring your strength.” Amy Biemeck, another WGU grad, adds, “Make sure you have the support and dedication of a partner, friend, or family, and let them know what you need to be successful. Don't feel guilty for making your dreams and goals a priority.”

6. Ask for Help 

Many parents are accustomed to managing every aspect of daily life on their own. The idea of asking for help can feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable. However, when it comes to pursuing a degree, seeking support is not a sign of weakness but one of strength and determination.

Rachel Palmer reflects, “As parents, we tend to be independent problem-solvers, but your mentor and Course Instructors are lifesavers.” The value of a support system cannot be overstated. WGU grad Renee Sutton also encourages students to take full advantage of the help that is available, saying, “Fall back on the wonderful resources WGU has for students, beginning with your mentor and Course Instructors.” These individuals are not just staff; they’re partners with you in this pursuit. 

Renee also reminds single parents of the importance of self-compassion during their time at WGU. “If you’re a single parent, give yourself grace; every small step is worthwhile.” Even progress that feels slow is still progress. Acknowledging your efforts and celebrating small wins can build the momentum you need to keep moving forward.

WGU Can Help Student Parents Earn Their Degree 

WGU is committed to helping you succeed. With flexible degree programs that fit your busy schedule, one-on-one guidance from Program Mentors, and a wide range of tools and resources designed for adult learners, WGU empowers you to pursue your education while still meeting the demands of family life. Our online offerings include popular business programs, as well as in-demand master’s and bachelor's degrees—and certificates—in fields like IT, teaching, and healthcare. WGU is here to support you every step of the way. Start building the future you want for your family by applying today.