WHAT ABOUT PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH? A SURVEY OF STUDENTS WHO COMBINE WORK AND AN ACADEMIC MASTER'S DEGREE

Abstract

Abstract: This study aims to understand how reconciling work and study can impact on the physical and mental health of academic master's degree students. It emphasises that although achieving a master's or doctoral degree is an academic milestone, these students' journey is permeated by challenges. The study analyses the complex interaction between personal, professional, social and academic dimensions, and the influence of this relationship on the health of master's students. Using a qualitative and descriptive approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 students who combine work and an academic master's degree at institutions in Minas Gerais. The participants reported experiencing high levels of exhaustion and psychological distress, as well as physical health problems as a reflection of mental ill-health. Thus, the research seeks to fill gaps in the understanding of the health of these students, aiming to contribute to academic literature and public policy practices in order to implement/improve the support offered by postgraduate programmes.