Degree-seeking students

Course load

Each summer course is designed to give one semester’s worth of work. With careful scheduling, students can earn as many as 15 credits during the summer if coursework extends over the full Summer Studies calendar.

Overloads

Students who wish to take more than 15 hours during Summer Studies must receive permission for an overload. Audited courses are counted as part of the course load. Call the Summer Studies office at (804) 827-4586 for help in seeking approval.

Course load regulations

All summer classes are intensive and demanding, especially three- and five-week courses. Students experiencing academic difficulty should consider this advisory before registering for three-week classes and be aware that the summer add/drop period is 48 hours.

Students should also consider the amount of time required for each class with realistic expectations. Summer success is based on the academic standard of one credit per week.

Recommended course loads include:

• Six credits in five weeks
• Nine credits in eight weeks
• Three credits in an occasional two-week workshop
• Seven credits in six weeks

Course loads we do not recommend include:

• Nine credits in either five or six weeks
• Six credits in either three or four weeks
• Three credits in one week, with the exception of special programs

Advising

Continuing degree-seeking students are assigned advisors by their schools and departments.

All first-year and pre-health professions students are advised through University Academic Advising (UAA). Undeclared students are also advised through UAA until they declare a major and their records are transferred to the appropriate department.