Credit Hour Policy

The University of Jamestown follows the “Carnegie Definition” of credit hour. A unit of credit (one credit hour) is defined as the equivalent of one 50-minute in-class period with a minimum of two hours of additional student work outside of class per week for approximately 15 weeks; or

The equivalent amount of student work over a different amount of time; or

The equivalent amount of student work by other instructional modes of delivery such as distance education (online), hybrid learning, or independent and directed studies.

Hence, a three-credit course would require the equivalent of 45 hours of class time and 90 hours of outside work. In the online accelerated (eight-week) environment, this translates to approximately 18 hours of student work per week for a three-credit course. Student work includes preparation time, reading, research, discussion board participation, assignments, exams, and practical application of materials.

Details of the policy:

• Laboratory Courses: Practical application type courses where the major focus is on ‘hands on’ experience to support student learning using equipment, activities, tools, machines etc. 1 credit hour is approximately 2-3 laboratory hours.
• Applied Music Lessons: Courses are individual lessons which meet once per week. Students receive 1-2 credits with lessons lasting 30-60 minutes. Additional independent practice is expected.
• Internships and Practicums: A pre-professional practical learning experience in an appropriate work environment that will benefit the student. 1 credit per 40 hours of internship, with an additional 2 hours or more of coursework, not to exceed 8 credits in one experience with the exception of student teaching.