Yes. Several UK universities teach blended degrees with 1 to 2 days on campus a week, or evenings and weekends, plus online study, so you can keep a full-time job. Plan for roughly 10 to 12 hours of classes a week at the universities we work with, plus time for reading and assignments. Before you enrol, check how the course is classified for Student Finance and what attendance it requires.
The three weekly patterns
- 2 days a week on campus. Two fixed days, usually about 5 to 6 hours each. Examples among our partners: University of Lancashire in London, Anglia Ruskin and University of Greater Manchester.
- 1 day on campus plus online. One day in person and the rest online, or two evenings plus Saturday online. London Metropolitan University works this way, delivered with QA Higher Education.
- Evenings and weekends. Classes on weekday evenings or on Saturdays. At the University of Roehampton, for example, there are two Saturdays a month on campus and two evening sessions online.
How to fit it around a job
- Pick the timetable first, then the course. If your shifts are fixed, a fixed two-day pattern is easier to plan than a rotating roster.
- Ask your employer for fixed days off as early as possible. Many employers are open to fixed days off, flexible hours or study leave when they know the dates in advance.
- Plan your reading and assignments in blocks, for example one evening plus part of a weekend, and ask the university how many hours a week the course expects.
- If you have children, check the Childcare Grant: it is paid on top of your other student finance for eligible full-time courses.
What to check before you enrol
Blended and weekend courses have been under closer scrutiny. In 2026 the government and the Student Loans Company tightened their checks on courses that were classed as in-attendance although they are taught mainly at weekends. Protect yourself:
- Check that the degree is awarded by a UK university, and that the provider appears on the Office for Students register.
- Ask how the course is classified for Student Finance (full-time, part-time) and what attendance is required.
- Ask for the timetable in writing, including the number of campus days and the semester dates.
- Never pay a fee to an agent. At AdmitGo you never pay: our partner universities pay us when you enrol.
Is it really possible?
Yes, and many of our students start in their 30s and 40s after years in work. It takes planning, but the structure is designed for people who cannot stop earning. If you are not sure it fits your job, message us your usual week and we will suggest a timetable.
Quick answers
Can I do a UK degree with shift work?
Often yes. Choose a course with fixed campus days or evenings, then ask your employer to plan shifts around them. Online lectures help on weeks when you cannot attend a live session.
How many hours a week will I be in class?
At our partner universities typically around 10 to 12 hours a week of timetabled teaching, with the exact number depending on the course. You also need time for reading and assignments.
Do I have to tell my employer?
You do not have to, but a conversation about fixed days makes everything easier. Some employers also support study with flexible hours.
Is a blended degree a real degree?
Yes. The qualification is awarded by the university and is the same degree, whether you attend one, two or five days a week. Always confirm that the awarding university and the course are named in your offer.
Sources: gov.uk: who qualifies for Student Finance; House of Commons Library: student finance and weekend-only courses.
Disclosure: AdmitGo is free for students and is paid by partner universities when a student enrols. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Student Finance England decides every application.