Course Description/Course Numbering System

Example of a Course Description

Course descriptions may contain specific instructions or limitations. Students should review descriptions carefully. For those courses which have prerequisites, the first item in the course description is the prerequisite statement. Course may also have recommended prerequisites.

Prerequisites are indicated in the University Catalog and the web class schedule and will be enforced at the time of registration. The student is responsible for having the appropriate prerequisites prior to enrollment in a course. If any academic department determines that a student does not have the appropriate prerequisites for a course, registration for the course may be cancelled either prior to or after classes begin. Any questions concerning the prerequisites should be answered by consulting the current catalog or by contacting the academic department offering the course.

Lecture Contact hours represents the number of hours per week (based on a 15-week semester) the course will meet in a lecture environment. For courses which are lecture only, the lecture hours will equal credit hours. More information on credit hours.

Lab Contact hours represent the number of hours per week (based on a 15-week semester) the course will meet in a laboratory environment. At least two laboratory hours are required for one credit hour. For example, a four credit hour course with three hours of lecture will have two hours of laboratory.

Clinical Contact hours represent the number of hours per week (based on a 15-week semester) the course will meet in clinical experiences outside the classroom and may not be listed in the lab hours area and/or in the course description. Normally clinical hours will require 3 hours per hour credit.

Course periodicity indicates the schedule on which the course will typically be offered: F=Fall; S=Spring; and Su=Summer. (Many courses with an "F, S" designation are also offered during the summer.) An "E" indicates that the course will be offered in even numbered years and an "O" indicates odd numbered years. A "D" indicates that the course will be offered upon sufficient demand.

Variable content is defined as any course having in either its course title or its description any of the following terms: variable content, special topics, issues, mini problems, seminars, projects, independent study, or readings. Variable content courses include any courses, whether or not they can be repeated for additional credit, whose content may be substantially different from one semester to another. Not included in this category are special problems, special projects, readings, and research conducted on a tutorial basis with individual students. Unless otherwise stipulated in the course description, a variable content course may be taken only once for credit.  

Course Numbering System

View list of Course Code/Number Changes effective Fall 2012