EXPLORING WORK-LIFE BALANCE CHALLENGES AMONG SENIOR POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS PURSUING MASTERS AND PHD DEGREES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY AT HEALTH SERVICES ACADEMY, ISLAMABAD

Abstract

The objective of this study was to explore the work-life balance challenges faced by senior postgraduate students pursuing MPhil and PhD degrees at the Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad. Specifically, it aimed to investigate the perceived effects of managing dual responsibilities on students' mental health and to understand the coping mechanisms employed by working students to balance their academic and professional obligations. Using a qualitative research approach, data was collected through questionnaires from 22 participants, including 16 MPhil and 6 PhD students, all of whom were employed while pursuing their postgraduate studies. A thematic analysis of the data revealed. The findings indicated that the dual responsibilities of work and study placed significant strain on students, with many reporting feelings of anxiety, stress, and burnout. Time management was a recurring challenge, as students struggled to meet both academic and professional deadlines. The study concludes that institutional policies, such as improved communication, flexible deadlines, and accessible mental health services, could greatly alleviate the pressures faced by working postgraduate students.