Pros and cons of taking night classes in college

At some point in time, you might consider taking a night class in college. Often, night classes take place between 5 PM and 10 PM There are some reasons that you might want to do this. For instance, maybe you have a job during the day. Or perhaps you want to load up on credits to graduate early, and the only time of day you have to add additional classes to your schedule is at night.

If you’re considering night classes, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the decision to make sure they’re the right fit for you.

Pros of taking night classes in college

Potentially learn beside older students

Night classes are sometimes taken by older students who work full-time during the day and attend classes at night. Older working students will bring a different perspective to class discussions and projects based on real-world experiences. Getting exposed to different perspectives is always a good thing.

Ability to network with different kinds of people

Taking night classes beside working professionals can be a great way to build a professional network. Being surrounded by students who work in different industries can give good insights into their careers, which can be helpful after graduation.

Could be a better fit for your study schedule

Students who take night classes have the advantage of being able to take time to study during the day. They can study on lunch breaks, during their morning commutes, before work, and so on — which means late-night study sessions aren’t necessary. Depending on how and when you study best, this can be a big pro.

Possibility to study under adjunct professors

Adjunct professors are part-time professors. Sometimes adjunct professors have professional careers and teach part-time. For example, an adjunct journalism professor might work as a newspaper editor by day, or an adjunct finance professor might work at a private equity fund. This can be a great opportunity for students taking night classes, as these types of professors can provide real-world insights into the course material.

Could provide a more flexible schedule

Night classes can offer flexibility to students with daytime obligations. There are a variety of reasons that students might need to take night classes, but the flexibility they offer can be invaluable.

Cons of taking night classes in college

Could mean that you're in for a long day

For some students, the last thing they want to do is sit through a two-plus hour-long class after work or a full day of classes. For some students, this can be extremely difficult, and it’s important to consider if this is something you can handle.

Could be disruptive to your social life

Taking night classes can interfere with your social life, whether you’re a younger or older student — making it challenging to spend time with friends or family during the week. It’s important to consider how challenging this will be for you.

Might be harder to focus

At the end of a long day, it can be hard to focus. In addition to simply zoning out, computers and smartphones give us access to social media, games, and hundreds of other things that can steal our attention, especially when we’re tired at the end of the day.

Could mean a lack of access to student services

Many on-campus services offered to students are only available during typical business hours. These services include the financial aid office, admissions office, dining options, and even, sometimes, libraries.

This means if you need access to certain resources, you might need to adjust your schedule to take advantage of certain services if you’re taking night classes.

Final thoughts

When deciding whether to take night classes, it might be a good idea to consider the pros and cons. Make sure they fit within your lifestyle needs, otherwise you could put your education and other personal needs at risk.