Tips on Short Courses

Colleges or universities traditionally offer their courses either on a semesterly or quarterly basis. Many schools, however, offer short courses - classes that are compressed in order to offer the material in considerably less than the typical 16 (or so) week duration. Though the shortness of the duration offers some convenience to some students, there are also challenges for the student enrolling in a short course.

The convenience of taking a college short course is often balanced by the added challenge of studying a traditional semester's worth of material in a compressed duration of time. You can increase your chances of success in a short course by following some tips.

• Choose a short course in which you already have some familiarity or background. This will help because you will not have to learn a completely new topic quickly. 


• Do some research on the professors who are offering the short courses. Ask fellow students who have taken short courses before. Although, of course, you will want to focus on getting a good education and choosing professors that are very knowledgeable, you may also want to consider professors whose courses are not filled with projects or assignments that demand an extreme amount of time.


• Exhibit excellent attendance. With a short course, the material is compressed and the speed through which topics are covered are faster. Therefore, being absent for one class can mean missing vital information that may not be reviewed in any subsequent classes. If you must be absent, make sure you get notes from a classmate.


• Prepare for the class in advance as much as possible. Have all your materials and books purchased and ready on the first day so that you can get started on the reading and assignments without falling behind. 


• Be focused and display a good work ethic. Short courses can be intense, requiring extra concentration and focus. The work and determination will be rewarded with the completion of the course. Participate in class as much as possible and complete all required assignments.


• Prioritize your time. Remember that, during the duration of the short course, your studying level may have to be increased in intensity. This will likely mean that you will have to prioritize your studying and work over social or leisure time more than usual. Again, keep in mind that the course is for a shortened duration and that the benefits and rewards of having completed the course will be worth it in the end.