Beginning in summer 2024, Virginia Western will offer several courses in 7-week sessions. All of our 8-week courses will move to 7-week courses and many of our 12- and 16-week courses will adopt this condensed format.
The shortened format provides the same excellent curriculum of 16-week courses condensed into only seven weeks, allowing you to focus on fewer classes at a time while staying on track to meet your educational goals.
Data from the Achieving the Dream Foundation indicates that shortened sessions increase student success, retention and completion.
Shorten sessions will allow you to:
- Accrue credits more quickly and see tangible progress toward program completion
- Manage requirements for fewer classes at a time to help you stay focused and motivated
- Have more flexibility in your scheduling, allowing you to more easily work your class schedule into your work and family life
- Get back on track quickly in the event of a disruption due to life events
Check with you advisor to determine if 7-week courses are available for you program and if it is the right fit for your educational needs.
What is a 7-week class?
The 7-week class format breaks the standard 16-week semester into two terms that are 7 weeks each. 7-week classes offer the same quality of teaching, support, and content as traditional 16- week classes but in a more compact time frame.
Are there advantages to taking 7-week classes?
One of the primary advantages of 7-week classes is that students can focus on fewer classes during one 7-week term. Additionally, research has shown that students in 7-week classes have higher class success rates and higher completion rates.
What should I consider when planning a 7-week schedule?
Anytime you are planning for a future semester, we encourage you to talk to your advisor to assist you in creating a schedule that best meets your needs.
- Creating a balanced schedule is extremely important for academic success
- The number of classes you take will vary based on whether you are full- or part-time and will depend on your program of study.
- 7-week classes are of the same rigor and equate to the same overall instructional time and required study hours as 16-week classes but in a more compact format.
- Students, in consultation with their advisor, are encouraged to register for the entire semester (both 7-week terms) prior to the start of the semester. Failing to register for the entire semester could result in Financial Aid complications.
What are some student success tips for 7-week classes?
- It is important to be engaged in 7-week courses from day one! Starting strong and making sure you have everything you need (textbooks, login information, etc.) before you begin is key to your success.
- Schedule and manage your time wisely. Plan to spend 12-18 hours per week per course studying outside of class. Share your commitment with family and friends.
- If your course is online, make sure you log in and participate in the course at least every other day.
- Apply the same success rules you would for any type of course.
- Use a planner to keep track of your classes, due dates, and important events.
- Check Canvas and your student email regularly for updates.
- Take good notes.
- Participate in class by engaging in class discussions and getting to know your classmates.
- Have your textbooks on the first day of class.
- Get to know your teacher.
What happens if I fall behind in a 7-week class?
Contact your instructor immediately so you can work together to determine the best plan of action. If withdrawing from the course is the best option, check with Financial Aid to determine the impact of dropping and/or re-enrolling for a course in the 2nd 7-week term.
Will this impact my financial aid?
Nothing drastic is changing in regard to your financial when it comes to the new 7-week sessions. Financial aid will still be processed for the fall, spring and summer terms. However, you will need to make certain to register for all your semester courses upfront. This means if you plan to take courses in the first 7-week session and the second 7-week session, you must enroll for all classes prior to the last day to drop classes for the 16-week session.
When should I buy my textbooks and other course materials?
You need to order your books for both 7-week sessions at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, especially if you plan to use financial aid funds. You must have your textbooks and course materials on the first day of class. However, don’t open/unwrap your second 7-week class textbooks until you start that class.
Where do I find the dates for the 7-week session?
In the Academic Calendar below the dates for the 16-week session. Academic Calendar – Virginia Western Community College
Sample calendar: Dates will change each year
- 16-week Session: Aug 28 to Dec 20
- 7-week 1 Session: Aug 28 to Oct 16
- 7-week 2 Session: Oct 24 to Dec 20
More detailed information can be found in this expanded FAQ (PDF).
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