The academic year is divided into two semesters and summer sessions.

Fall and Spring Semesters

The first semester, referred to as the “Fall” semester, begins in August and ends before the Christmas holiday; the second semester, referred to as the “Spring” semester, begins in January and ends in May. In the Fall semester there is a mid-semester week-long recess as well as a short Thanksgiving recess. In the Spring semester there is a mid-semester week-long recess as well as a short Easter recess.

Within each semester there are also eight-week terms that fit within the traditional semester dates.

Summer session

Summer classes are held throughout the summer in shorter length terms. Faculty-led travel courses as well as a variety of short workshops and institutes on topics of current interest are part of each summer’s offerings.