Your Complete Guide to Taking Classes Over the Summer

The Do’s and Don’ts of Taking Classes Over the Summer

Summer is the perfect time to get ahead in your college coursework, whether you’re looking to complete prerequisites, lighten your fall semester load, or accelerate your degree. Taking summer courses online can be a game-changer, offering flexibility, affordability, and the opportunity to earn credits at your own pace.

But before you dive in, it's important to know the best practices for summer learning. Here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts to help you make the most of your summer college courses.

✅ Do: Plan Your Schedule Wisely

Summer courses are typically accelerated, meaning you’ll cover more material in a shorter timeframe. Before enrolling, take time to plan your schedule by:

✔ Checking course length and workload expectations.✔ Balancing your summer commitments (work, internships, vacations, etc.).✔ Ensuring you have enough time to dedicate to studying and assignments.

🔹 Tip: Many online platforms, such as UPI Study, offer self-paced courses, allowing you to create a schedule that works best for you.

❌ Don’t: Underestimate the Workload

Even though summer courses are shorter, they are often more intense. Skipping assignments or falling behind can make it difficult to catch up. Avoid this by:

❌ Not assuming summer classes will be easier than fall or spring courses.❌ Avoiding procrastination—assignments and exams come quickly in shorter sessions.❌ Not overloading yourself with too many courses at once.

🔹 Tip: Stick to one or two courses at a time to ensure you can manage the accelerated pace effectively.

✅ Do: Take Advantage of Online Learning Options

One of the biggest advantages of summer courses is the flexibility of online learning. Many students choose to complete general education or prerequisite courses online because:

✔ They are often more affordable than traditional in-person classes.✔ You can study from anywhere, whether at home or while traveling.✔ Online courses allow you to work at your own pace.

🔹 Tip: Platforms like UPI Study offer self-paced summer courses that fit into your schedule, helping you stay on track for graduation.

❌ Don’t: Enroll Without Checking Credit Transfer Policies

Before registering for a summer class at a different institution or online, always verify that the credits will transfer to your home college or university.

❌ Don’t assume all courses are automatically accepted—check your school’s transfer credit policy.❌ Avoid taking courses that may not count toward your degree requirements.❌ Don’t forget to request transcripts once you complete your summer course.

🔹 Tip: UPI Study partners with over 150 colleges, making it easier for students to transfer credits successfully.

✅ Do: Use Summer Courses to Lighten Your Fall Course Load

Taking key courses during the summer can help ease your academic stress in the upcoming semester. Consider completing:

✔ General education requirements – Courses like College Algebra, English Composition, or U.S. History can be completed ahead of time.✔ Prerequisites for your major – Get a head start by taking Anatomy & Physiology, Microeconomics, or Business Ethics online.✔ High-demand courses – If a required course fills up quickly in fall or spring, complete it in the summer instead.

🔹 Tip: Completing 3-6 credits during the summer can keep you on track for early graduation or a lighter fall workload.

❌ Don’t: Neglect Support Resources

Even in summer courses, academic support can make a big difference in your success. Don’t hesitate to seek help when needed:

❌ Don’t ignore tutoring and professor office hours—use them to stay on top of the material.❌ Don’t forget about study groups—collaborating with classmates can help reinforce concepts.❌ Don’t skip practice exams and review sessions—especially for math, science, or writing-intensive courses.

🔹 Tip: UPI Study provides free eTextbooks and tutoring support, ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Summer Courses

Taking summer courses can be an excellent way to accelerate your degree, fulfill requirements, and stay on track for graduation. By planning wisely, leveraging online learning, and staying engaged, you can make the most of your summer semester.

Start exploring your summer course options today and get ahead in your college journey!