Should you consider summer classes?

Concordia University, Nebraska offers over 100 summer class options in formats such as online, lecture and workshop. The majority of the courses are online, which allows students a degree of flexibility that most do not experience during the academic year.  

In addition, students typically only take one to two summer classes at a time as opposed to the four or more courses that they would take during the school year. This also gives students a lot more flexibility than they have during the spring and fall semesters, allowing them to work and travel while further working towards their degree. 

Summer classes typically run for eight weeks, unlike the usual 15-week courses offered during the spring and fall semesters. This allows students to stack more courses if they desire since they are not running for as long. However, because the courses are condensed into a shorter time frame, students should be cautious about how many classes they choose to take because they will still have to complete the same coursework assigned during the longer class time in the spring and fall.  

Online summer classes also offer students a cost-effective way to work towards their degree. While taking online classes at home, they only have to pay tuition per credit hour and for their textbooks without paying for room and board. This significantly decreases the cost of earning credit. Students also have the option to take classes at community colleges near them and transfer the credits, as long as it is a regionally accredited institution.  

Summer classes can also help students to either graduate early or help them stay on track for a four-year education.  

In short, summer classes can be a great, cost-effective way for students to fast-track their professional development and stay on top of their coursework while still allowing for a relaxing semester. 

As per university policy, students are the stewards of their education and schedules. Students are expected to know and complete all their general education, major, minor and program requirements as spelled out in the academic handbook. They should also be familiar with and adhere to dates and deadlines for registration, drop/add, course withdrawal and applying for graduation. Students should work closely with their advisors throughout their time on campus to ensure that they fulfill all their requirements for graduation. Questions and requests for information can also be directed to the Office of the Registrar at registrar@cune.edu