Whether you're new to college or a senior, enrolling in a class can be challenging. Determining how many classes you should take each semester, or understanding the minimum educational requirements in relation to important elective classes is tricky. However, if you take the time to plan your semester ahead of enrollment, you'll quickly get used to it. These steps will guide you through the online process at a general education institution that takes 4 years.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Class
Step 1. Determine how many credits you have to take
Full-time students typically take 18-20 (or more) credits per semester, with most (though not all) classes containing three credits each.
So, based on the assumptions above, you would need to take at least six classes (four times three credits for each class) to be considered a full-time student with eighteen credits each semester
Step 2. Determine the curriculum requirements you should focus on this semester
There are several class categories that you must meet as a graduation requirement, and you should take them into account when planning your semester. You don't have to make a whole plan until you graduate, but thinking about what you need to achieve in the next four years will help you decide which class to take.
- Most schools have a planning sheet. This sheet will help you see the big picture when considering which class to take.
- Thinking about the classes you'll need to pass will help you waste time on classes that aren't really important for a degree.
Step 3. Consider quickly meeting the general requirements
General education (MKU/General Courses) are classes that must be attended by all students. These classes will come from a variety of disciplines, such as mathematics, languages, history, and natural sciences, and are at a fundamental level. These MKU classes will instill in you a broad intellectual base, introduce you to a variety of disciplines (whether you like it or not), and make you a bright student in a variety of fields. If you're not sure which major you want to take, here are some examples of things you can do to help make your choice.
- Focus on enrolling in these classes in your first and second year.
- These classes usually have a smaller numbered course code, for example English 101.
- Try to avoid skipping these classes, even if you're not interested or find them difficult. Passing these classes, which is considered a requirement, is often mandatory so that you can study other, more specific classes in the future.
Step 4. Focus on your major
Once you have made your choice of major, you will take specific classes in the discipline or department. These classes are usually related to what you want to do after graduation, such as starting work in your chosen field, or continuing your master's studies. So if you want to become a marine biologist, concentrate on science classes to prepare you for that career.
- In general, you will take these advanced classes after you have completed all the classes that are your general education requirements, sometime in your sophomore year or the beginning of your first year. Thus, you should have made your choice at this point (if you haven't already).
- In most departments, you must meet the requirements in order for you to take certain classes. For example, a history major may require you to take at least one Indonesian History, World History, and European History class.
- Many majors require practical classes, which are taken in the final years and are required as a condition of graduation. These classes will provide an opportunity for you to put into practice what you have learned in the major.
- These classes may code contain higher numbers, for example History 440.
Step 5. Fill in your schedule with elective classes that interest you
Most majors give you the opportunity to select several classes simply because you are interested in them. These classes are likely open to all majors and provide an opportunity for you to explore and have fun in your study schedule.
- You will have time to attend elective classes once you have completed your general education/MKU classes.
- Elective classes can complement what you study in your major, but if you are also concentrating on a second major, these classes can be useful for your minor degree. However, even if an art class on comic book illustration isn't related to your major's requirements, you can still take it if it's offered as an elective!
Step 6. Speak to your PA (Academic Advisor)
PA is your best friend! Most universities have a PA available to help students plan their program each semester. Even if you are sure about your class choice, consulting with a PA can help you make sure you don't miss anything.
- If you have chosen a major, the PA may be from your department. If not, you can talk to the PA from the student services center. Contact the department secretary to find out if there is a PA specially prepared to assist you.
- See your PA regularly to keep you on track for graduation. Don't arrive at the end of your senior year, only to find that you forgot to take a mandatory class.
- Some PAs have limited working hours. To keep things safe, call or email the PA to make an appointment. Be on time and have a list of questions and ideas for classes you want to take.
Step 7. Find out if you are entitled to certain dispensations
You may not have to take all the required classes, especially at the MKU level. Contact the admissions office on your campus. This office is the office that takes care of all matters related to student registration, and can give permission to skip classes (if you meet the requirements). Make sure the credits for these classes are also recorded on your grade/study history report card.
- If you take certain exams, you may be granted a dispensation to skip some classes.
- You may be able to skip some classes, such as foreign languages, if you score high enough on the placement test.
- If you are taking classes at another campus, you may be able to transfer some of your credits.
Part 2 of 3: Scheduling
Step 1. Find your university class newsletter
Before registration begins, look for a list of available classes for the next semester. You should know what classes are offered this semester. New students usually decide what class they will take without realizing that the class is only offered at certain times, or even only once in a few years.
Make a note if any of the classes you want have prerequisites. Prerequisites are lower level classes that you must take and pass before you can move on to the next level classes
Step 2. Do some research for classes that interest you
Don't just look at the class name. Check out the class catalog to learn an explanation of each class your university offers.
Most of the in-class experiences in the catalog are based on your teacher's opinion. Ask older students for advice on fun professors. You can also visit the ratemyprofessor.com site to see the lecturers' grades (may not include lecturers in your country)
Step 3. Think about the days and times of classes you want to take
Now that you have an idea of the classes you want, consider work schedules, extracurricular activities, and social time as you plan your semester schedule.
- If you have to work at night every Tuesday and Thursday, you may find it difficult to get up for class at 8 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.
- You should also find out where your classes are located on campus. Do not let you have to move to the other end of the campus to take the next class.
Part 3 of 3: Registering for Class
Step 1. Sign up as early as possible
Don't delay registration, because certain classes will be full soon. Students will usually be given a class registration schedule. Make sure you know when you can register.
Step 2. Don't stress if you can't take a class
This is likely to happen, so, when signing up, make sure you have a backup class set up.
- If you can't take a class that you really want or need to take, ask if the class will reopen in the near future. Otherwise, keep an eye on the registration system in the first week of a new semester, as during this period students are allowed to add or cancel classes without penalty.
- In some cases, lecturers may want to teach more students, or add space for several students, even after the class is full. Contact your professor directly to ask about this possibility, but don't get your hopes up and don't push it.
Step 3. Consider online classes
Online classes can be an option to comfortably meet the requirements. These days, many universities offer classes that are partially or completely online. These classes are a good choice for students who have family or work commitments, making it difficult to schedule a schedule, or for those who are pursuing military education.
- Online learning requires a high level of self-discipline, as you will be responsible for completing the course in your own time, without as much supervision as if you were in a traditional classroom.
- Your personal interactions with professors and classmates will also decrease, and you may not be able to build as many relationships as you normally would if you were in a classroom. So, avoid these online classes unless you are a very social person.
Tips
- Some universities offer classes that are easier or more attractive to new students. For example, you may be able to take a Music Theory or Philosophy class to meet the MKU logic requirements.
- Interdisciplinary classes and programs, such as Women's Studies or Caribbean Studies, are offered at many universities. These classes cover more than one area, and are good for students who don't want to concentrate on just one traditional major.
