Brandeis Online
How a New Dad is Earning His Master's Degree While Working Full Time
July 1, 2025
Drew Caruso had a lot on his plate. As a new dad and associate bioinformatics scientist at AbbVie, Drew was juggling a variety of responsibilities that needed his attention. Adding a master’s degree to the mix was important to his career goals and personal growth, but he had to be strategic in order to be successful.
Drew had two main goals when looking for the right program:
- Flexible classes that worked around his busy schedule
- Real skills that would help his career grow
“I wanted something that above all provided strong skills that would help elevate my career,” Drew says, “but just as importantly a program that catered to my schedule of working full time and being a dad.”
Drew isn’t alone. At Brandeis Online, 98% of our students are working while earning their degree. Many are also parents or care for family members.
Drew only considered online programs. He knew he needed classes that were flexible and didn’t require him to be online at specific times. When considering adding another one more commitment to his life, he wanted a high quality program that would foster connections and help him grow professionally, that would make all the late nights worth it.
A lot of the programs he saw that fit his scheduling criteria were biotech programs with a minor concentration in bioinformatics. But Brandeis Online offers exactly what he needed: a full bioinformatics program taught by working professionals.
“Brandeis Online’s structure of courses being taught by leading professionals solidified my desire to learn from them,” Drew says, “because it assured me I would be learning what is valued in the industry.”
How Brandeis Online works for students like Drew:
- Classes run Wednesday to Wednesday, to allow for weekend studying
- Clear deadlines and learning objectives are set from the start
- Syllabus is available from Day 1, so students know what to expect each week
- Professors run office hours, and understand industry workload
- 24/7 access to course materials
- Supportive online community
When it comes to juggling it all, Drew has no regrets. “Becoming a dad is the greatest thing that has happened to me,” Drew says, but it does cause your priorities and time availability to shift. His wife has been paramount to his success. “Adding masters coursework into the mix is difficult, but has been well worth it. I want to show my kids that it is always good to reach for my knowledge and education.”
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Like Drew, you can earn your master’s degree while working full-time and managing family life.
Brandeis Online offers:
- 100% online classes that fit your schedule
- Expert faculty who work in your field
- Clear course structure that makes planning easier
- Real skills that employers value
- Experienced advisors to help you succeed