102.0 Academic Calendar

Created by: Stephanie Ferguson on 11/17/2006
Category: 1 - Academic Affairs; 00 - General
 
Originator: Academic Policies Committee
Current File: 102.0
Adoption Date: 11/17/2006
Reviewed for Currency: 11/17/2006
 
Replaces File:
Date of Origin: 11/17/2006
 
Classification: Faculty
 
In Archive? No

 

A. Background

 

The academic calendar helps to ensure a rigorous and stable academic program at Furman.  The University employs a semester-plus calendar to achieve such a goal.

 

B.  Policy

 

At the recommendation of the Academic Policies Committee and with the approval of the faculty, the University’s Administrative Calendar Committee, chaired by the Provost and composed of administrative officers, faculty members, and at least two current students, sets specific dates for the academic calendar in upcoming years for all academic programs consistent with the guidelines detailed in this policy.

 

 

C.  Guidelines

 

  1. The fall and spring semesters will comprise the traditional academic year. Semesters will include 14 instructional weeks (or a total of 68-70 class days) and a week for final examinations. Semesters will also typically include two reading/study days.
  2. The fall semester will typically begin in late August and the last day of exams conclude no later than December 19.
  3. The spring semester will typically begin in early to mid-January and final exams conclude in early May. The annual spring commencement ceremony will take place no later than the second weekend in May.
  4. Instruction during the May Experience will last 3 weeks (or a total of 14-15 class days).
  5. The summer term will include two sessions for undergraduate day students, both five weeks in length (24-25 class days), the first beginning in early June and the second concluding in early to mid-August. The annual summer commencement ceremony will usually take place the second weekend of August each year.
  6. A single undergraduate-evening studies summer term will begin during the May Experience, and its conclusion will coincide with the end of the second session of the undergraduate day-student summer term.