Academic Services

Number of Classes

The normal rate of work is 16 to 18 credit hours in a semester. Most classes at Brandeis are four credits, though classes such as science labs, theater practicum and musical performance classes are generally two credits. Health, Wellness and Life Skills carries no credit. If a student complete 4 four-credit classes at Brandeis (with a passing grade) they should have enough credit hours to graduate Brandeis in eight semesters.

Taking More

A student may choose to take an additional class and/or lab without an increase in tuition (a total of 5.5 classes). If a student thinks that they need to be in 6 courses, they can contact their academic advisor to discuss the petition process. The option to take six courses in a semester is only available to sophomores, juniors and seniors.

Taking Fewer

The minimum load that a student may take in one academic year is 7 courses, with 3 being the minimum in any given semester. There is no standard part-time status at Brandeis. If a student thinks they need to be in fewer than 3 courses, especially for health or medical reasons, they should contact their academic advisor to discuss the petition process.

Senior Reduced Status

Seniors who have completed all graduation requirements by the end of their 7th semester, but wish to remain at Brandeis for an additional semester, may petition to spend an eighth semester at the senior reduced rate. If approved, this program will allow the student to take 1, 2 or 3 courses and pay tuition on a per course basis.