Course Load

Course loads vary from program to program. Students enrolled in Day programs typically carry 16-17 units per semester, while Pathways students are usually enrolled in 6-12 units per semester. Graduate students’ course loads may vary widely depending on the pace of the program they select, but they typically take 9-12 units per semester.

It should be noted that the time it takes to earn a degree is directly impacted by the rate at which a student earns academic credit. For example, a first-time, full-time undergraduate student taking the minimum 12 units per semester will not complete the degree in four years.

It is strongly recommended that students who have not yet met the writing requirement limit their loads to 12-15 units per semester. A student may enroll for 18 units if she/he has carried 15 or more units the previous semester and received at least a 3.0 grade point average during that semester.  No further approval by the Petition Committee is needed.  Any student who has not completed 15 units with a 3.0 grade point average the previous semester must have the approval of his/her advisor to register for 18 units. Any student desiring to take 19 units or more must have the approval of both her/his academic advisor and the Academic Petition Committee. It should be noted that students are charged additional tuition for units in excess of 17.

Simultaneous registration at Dominican and another college must be approved prior to enrollment. Students must submit to the Registrar's Office an Authorization to Take Courses Off-Campus Form signed by the advisor. Courses taken without prior approval may not be counted toward the degree.