Minicourses are courses that are worth 1, 1.5, or 2 credits across various subjects and areas of study, and typically meet for the first seven weeks or second seven weeks of the semester. These courses are graded as letter grades (A, B+, B, C+, C, D, or F) and contribute to the minimum 120 degree credits required for the SAS degree. Minicourses must be added before the start date of the course.

Why would I wish to add a minicourse?

The School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) is a full-time institution. All SAS students are required to enroll in at least 12 credits per semester to maintain their full-time status. If withdrawing from a course will leave you taking fewer than 12 active credits, adding a minicourse (s) will allow you to meet the credit minimum and maintain your full-time status.

Minicourses provide general elective credits toward your overall degree (they count toward the 120-credit minimum required to graduate). Students are expected to earn 30 credits per academic year (roughly 15 credits per semester) in order to graduate in four years. Minicourses can help students stay on track, credit-wise, for graduation.

Minicourses can be a great way to try out a new subject area and expand your horizons! Many different academic departments and programs offer minicourses. These courses can introduce you to new material, instructors, and peers that may influence your academic or career choices moving forward. You never know!