Complete Newbie: Is my goal viable? $7-8,000/month passively?

[Soobin Oh]

Hi everyone!  Complete newbie here doing some initial research on how real estate investing might fit into my life.  First, let me say that I completely understand that this is not a get-rich-quick scheme and that this is going to take hard work.  But I am wondering if this is possible:

As a doctoral student of early childhood education, I want to continue doing research and working on consulting projects with schools.  It makes no money, in fact, I'd love to work with schools that have no money so that I can help them.

My goal is to set up relatively passive income streams so that I can focus on my research.  Is it possible to get to a point where I own rental properties, outsource management, and work 10-20 hours per week on my properties so that I can focus on my research?  Can I generate $7-8000/month of income from rental properties with these kinds of hours? 

I understand it will take dedication and hard work to get to this point, but is my goal even viable?  I need to hear it from people who aren't just wanting to make deals with me.  I have a little earnest money to bring in.  I have partners who might be interested in privately financing.  Thank you for helping me out