The effects of employment on undergraduate student academic performance

Abstract

This paper reviewed previous studies conducted in multiple countries on the effect of employment on undergraduate student academic performance. This review focuses on understanding the population and characteristics of students taking jobs while studying, the positive and negative effects of paid work on student academic performance, and if there is a threshold of work hours. It was found that a high percentage range, 27.2-97 percent, of college students were reported to take jobs while studying, with the main purpose of obtaining financial stability or acquiring needed skills for future long term employment in the field of study. More than a half of studies showed that employment has negative effects on academic performance and only one study concluded more positive than negative effects. For those that reported mixed results, the threshold was found to be 10-25 hours per week. This information may be used to guide undergraduate students in taking employment when considering their study and work balance.

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“…While some studies have found no significant correlation between employment and academic performance (Sinaga, 2018), others have reported a negative relationship (Baert et al, 2017). There is also evidence that the impact of employment on academic performance may vary depending on various factors, including the type and intensity of work, as well as individual characteristics of students (Zhang & Yang, 2020). It is important to note that certain factors may moderate the negative impact of work on academic performance.…”

“…Recent literature suggests a positive relationship between classroom engagement and academic performance among working students. A study by Zhang and Yang (2020) reported that working students who were highly engaged in their coursework had better grades and were likelier to persist in their studies. Classroom engagement enhances their academic performance and increases their likelihood of staying committed to their academic journey.…”

“…Poor attendance rates and a higher percentage of unexplained absences have been found to hinder academic success and result in poor academic achievement (Sheriff, 2021). This issue is especially prevalent among working students, who may struggle to balance their job responsibilities with their academic commitments (Zhang & Yang, 2020). Frequent absences can restrict students' chances of success in their studies, leading to a detrimental effect on their academic performance and potentially contributing to student attrition (Epstein, 2018;Zhang & Yang, 2020).…”

“…Several studies have revealed, that both positive and negative effects on academic achievement can result from working while studying. Zhang and Yang (2020) conducted a review of the research. They discovered that although work can provide skills and financial security, it also has a negative effect on academic achievement, with a threshold of 10-25 hours per week.…”

“…However, the impact of working while studying on academic performance has been debated. While some studies suggest that integrating work and learning can be helpful, mainly if the work is in the same field as the subject being studied, other studies claim that working more hours to make ends meet has a negative impact on academic performance (Carnevale, 2018;Ostoj, 2020;Perna & Odle, 2020;Zhang & Yang, 2020). This is especially true for less fortunate students who have to work more to support themselves (Creed et al, 2019).…”