Working Through College: Can It Still Be Done?

June 04, 2025

Many high school and college-aged students have heard the classic “when I was your age” stories from parents and grandparents. Along with the tales of walking uphill to school in the snow or buying a house on one modest salary, there’s the rumor that students could work their way through college. Is that really possible today, or has it disappeared along with $1 gas and cheap eggs?

Surprisingly, it can still be done! While it may take more planning than in the past, students who budget and plan wisely can still manage tuition costs while working.

How Much Will Tuition Cost Me?

The first thing to consider is tuition costs. The price tag for Missouri’s largest public four-year universities can run you well into five figures per year. Not to mention housing, lab fees, activity fees, textbooks and supplies. But at STLCC, students can save upwards of $11,000 per year—a 75 percent savings compared to other public options.

At STLCC, the in-district cost is $122 per credit hour. This has remained the same for several years while tuition prices throughout the country continue to go up and up.

And what about those fees? At STLCC, nearly all fees are built into the cost of the class.

Explore full details and calculate your costs on our tuition page.

Finding More Ways to Pay for College

Paying for college doesn’t have to be stressful. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs can help you cover costs and reduce debt.

At STLCC, there are many financial aid options to explore. You can find all the details on the Enrollment Services page, which explains how to apply and what’s available.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Scholarships are free money you don’t have to pay back. Some are based on good grades or special talents.
Grants are also free money, usually given to students who need financial help.
Work-study programs let you work part-time (often on campus) to earn money while gaining job experience.

To get started, you’ll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps you qualify for federal and state aid, including loans, grants and work-study jobs. You can also look into financial aid programs just for Missouri students.

Budgeting is key. Compare tuition, housing, food and transportation costs with potential earnings from jobs or financial aid to make smart financial choices. STLCC provides resources to support students every step of the way.

Finding the Right College Job

Balancing work and school requires finding the right job. Flexible part-time jobs in retail or food service can fit around your class schedule while teaching valuable skills. Remote jobs are also an option, giving students more flexibility.

STLCC students have the advantage of on-campus jobs, which reduce commuting time and keep students connected to campus. Check the STLCC Handshake page to explore available positions and connect with employers.

Balancing Work and School: Tips for Success

Managing college classes and a job is challenging, but effective planning makes it achievable:

Prioritize daily tasks using a planner or calendar app
Break big assignments into smaller steps with deadlines
Communicate with your employer about your schedule
Establish a regular study routine
Seek support from professors and advisors when needed

These strategies help students stay on top of their coursework while gaining valuable work experience.

Smart Money Moves for College Students

College is a perfect time to develop financial skills. Start by leveraging scholarships, grants and work-study programs at STLCC to reduce debt.

Budgeting is essential: track expenses, look for savings opportunities and build a small emergency fund. Every little bit helps.

As graduation approaches, focus on your career: seek jobs with benefits, continue learning new skills and plan for a financially secure future.

Working while attending college not only helps cover expenses but also teaches time management, problem-solving and professional skills, all valuable for life after graduation.

With careful planning, budgeting and the resources at STLCC, you can successfully balance work and school and achieve your educational goals.