Going back to Uni with a young family - what do we need to consider?

[EldonAve]

DH wants to go back to Uni and do a Masters
Probably abroad and it will take 2 years

Apart from £ what else do we need to think about?
Is it doable with a young family?

I think it would be the "abroad" that causes the problem. I started a Masters with the OU in May and although its part time it can be a bit all consuming. I've just finished an assignment and so have a bit of a breather for the next few weeks. My kids are all teenagers and DH works long hours but I've still had a few complaints about the amount of time I spend studying (from DD1 mostly who is home for the summer from university herself so you think she'd be understanding!). Would he be away for long stretches if he decides to do it?

We would all go

Well for me it depend on whether it was somewhere nice Anything is doable with the right attitude - it will be hard on you EldonAve if it means you have to do more childcare but worth it as you are investing in all your futures. The main downside would be if you are in uni accommodation it might be quite small even if its meant for families.

Very doable and what a wonderful opportunity for your children! I did mine with 3 young children and a teenager. Suppose the only thing to consider would be childcare provision which you would need to research, which I am sure you have already considered. Totally agree with webwiz anything is possible with the right attitude. Can you go over there on a research trip, have a look at the area, accommodation etc as family accomm for families tends to be very small. Keep us posted sounds wonderful!!

I'm also wondering how easy it would be to slot back into UK life after 2 years away

my parents did it. its all down to your emotional strentgh, and how well you and your dh work as a team

Where? Because I think that will make a big difference. As will language, money, support and if you can work issues.

they came to scotland, from pakistan. dad made sure they had return tickets, in case it all went pear shaped. it didnt.
when you hear them talk about the four years they were here, it sounds like a honeymoon time for them. for the first time, they were happy, working towards a shared goal. doing stuff together. etc etc.
it was hard, they had very little money. no family or friends to help out. just themselves. happiest time of their lives.