Instructional Days

Any Monday through Friday in which classes are in session.

Instructional Time

Scheduled class time where students are actively engaged in a learning activity facilitated by the instructor of record. This does not include orientation, counseling, homework, vacation, or holidays.

Instructional Week

Any seven-consecutive-day period in which at least one (1) day of regularly scheduled instruction or examination occurs.

Semester Length

An academic term consisting of no fewer than fifteen (15) and no more than eighteen (18) calendar weeks of instructional time.

Summer Session

The academic period between the spring and fall semesters.

PROCESS:

Organization of the Academic Year

The Academic Year consists of a Fall Semester, a Spring Semester, and a Summer Session.

  • Each Fall and Spring semester shall contain at least fifteen (15) instructional weeks.
  • The Summer Session shall last eight (8) weeks. Summer offerings must be based on a sustainable and fiscally responsible model that meets student needs.
  • Final grades for all courses must be posted in the learning management system and submitted to the Office of the Registrar no later than three (3) days after the final examination is administered. Any exceptions require grades to be submitted by the close of business on the Monday immediately following the final examination period.

Fall Semester

The fall semester shall begin on the second Monday of August and conclude before the official December holiday break.

  • Week 0 (Faculty Return): The week beginning on the second Monday of August is for faculty professional development, meetings, and conferences. Student activities may also be scheduled during this week.
  • Week 1 (Instruction Begins): The first day of instruction is the third Monday of August.
  • Labor Day: Observed as an academic holiday.
  • Mid-Semester Exams: Held during week eight (8) of instruction, typically the second week of October. Mid-semester grades and attendance records are due in the learning management system and Banner by the close of business on Friday of this week.