Definition of Semester-hour of Credit

The semester-hour of credit represents one hour of classroom instruction plus a minimum of two hours of work outside of the classroom for a period of 15 weeks. Short-term offerings are calculated on the same basis.

Calculations for the determination of Credit Hours

Lecture Courses
Lecture course are defined as courses in a primarily lecture-style format. In lecture courses, one hour of credit is given for one 60-minute period of recitation.

Lecture/Laboratory Courses
Lecture/laboratory courses are defined as courses that combines lecture with hands-on application of course material. In lecture/laboratory courses, one hour of credit is given for one 60-minute period of combined recitation and application.

Laboratory Courses
Laboratory courses are defined as courses in a primarily hands-on format. In laboratory courses, one hour of credit is given for two 60-minute periods of application.*

*Please note: In instrumental performance ensembles, one hour of credit is given for one 60-minute period of supervised instruction. Instrumental ensembles meet for a total of 2 hours per week. Instrumentalists in both small and large ensembles earn 2 hours of credit for each 15-week semester of classroom instruction plus a final exam in the form of a public performance.

In vocal performance classes, one hour of credit is given for one 60-minute period of supervised instruction. Vocal performance classes meet for a total of 3 hours per week (3 hours supervised). Vocalists earn 3 hours of credit for each 15-week semester of classroom work plus a final exam in the form of a public performance.

Private Instruction
Private Instruction is defined as a course in a one-on-one format focusing on technique on an instrument or voice. Private Instruction faculty also prepare students for their annual juries. Students must complete fifteen 1-hour lessons within each given semester to earn one credit. Note: Private instruction may not extend beyond the immediate 15-week semester.

Independent Study
Independent Study is defined as time spent independently completing a proposed research project that extends above and beyond the parameters of the curriculum. Students are required to submit a proposal in writing to the Dean of Instruction outlining: the project scope; objectives; time frame for completion; and their preferred faculty advisor. In Independent Study, one hour of credit is given for a minimum of one 60-minute period of research per week per 15-week semester. Students are required to present the findings of their research to the public in the form of a paper, lecture/demonstration or concert. The designated faculty advisor provides supervision three times throughout semester. An evaluation of the completed project is submitted to the Dean of Instruction in writing. Students are graded on a pass/no pass basis.

Workshops
Workshops are defined as short-term courses or programs in a lecture/laboratory format usually with a visiting artist and often concluding with a public performance. In workshops, credit hours for workshops are calculated on the same basis as credit hours for lecture/laboratory courses i.e., one hour of credit is given for one 60-minute period of recitation/application.