How Long Are Summer Classes?

Summer classes tend to run for a far shorter amount of time than regular semester classes — they usually last between four and six weeks. To fit all the material into this shorter timeframe, classes need to be more condensed, meaning they’re often fast paced. Typically, they take place three to five days a week with every session lasting three to four hours.

When you sign up, it’s important to be aware of exactly how long your classes will last and how many hours you’ll need to study each week. This will ensure you create a manageable schedule for the summer.

What Are the Advantages of Taking Summer Classes?

The main advantage of taking summer classes is they’ll reduce your workload for other semesters. You may be able to take less classes in the fall or you could make up for an earlier semester where you took fewer classes than normal. When you use them this way, summer classes can help you graduate on time or even graduate earlier.

Summer classes are particularly ideal for general education classes. You likely want to spend as little time as possible on classes that cover subjects outside your main areas of interest. The good news is these kinds of classes often run over the summer, as they attract the largest number of students.

What Are Some Downsides?

The main disadvantage of taking summer classes is you’ll lack a proper break. Although you may still have a few weeks off, this may not be enough to avoid burnout. If you’re already exhausted, intensive summer classes could be too much. Plus, a shorter summer break may mean you miss out on the chance to travel, have an internship, spend time with friends and family from your hometown, and earn money to fund your education.

In fact, taking summer classes can strain your financial situation in other ways because you’ll need to figure out how to pay for them. Many scholarships only cover classes during regular semesters — although it is possible to find scholarships specifically for summer classes. You may be able to find more affordable classes at a different school, but you need to make sure that you’ll be allowed to transfer the credit.

If you do decide to take summer classes, you’ll need somewhere to live over the summer, since dorms will likely be closed. For St Catharines student housing, there’s Regent. You’ll have your own room in a fully-furnished apartment located downtown. Everything you need is included in the rent — heat, hydro, water, WiFi, use of the gym, and access to the community room where you can meet other students. Set up a tour today.