By Stacy Godnick, Associate Dean for Student Academic Life
Taking a class for college credit is one option for your gap semester. It’s definitely not the only option! You can also take a class for your own personal enrichment and growth or spend your time on completely non-academic interests. If you’re thinking about taking a class, here are four steps to help you get started, decide what to take, and transfer a course.
1. Reflect on your goals
Before selecting a course, you want to reflect on your personal goals and the reason why you want to take a course.
Do you want to take a class that will count toward your major? This isn’t necessary for all majors but for some majors—such as business, computer science, engineering, STEM majors, or hospitality administration—taking a course during the gap semester is helpful.
Do you want to explore your academic interests? Maybe you’re undecided about your major. No problem! Many students are undecided when they first arrive to college. You may wish to use your gap semester as a time to explore your academic interests or learn about a topic that wasn’t part of your high school curriculum. You can use this time to explore your diverse academic interests by taking a course for college credit.
2. Discuss with your academic advisor
Whatever your goal may be, your academic advisor can give guidance and work with you to help you choose the right course. Your advisor will help you understand Boston University resources such as the Pathways to a BU Degree, the Transfer Equivalency Site, and the transfer credit process.
3. Register for the course
After you’ve consulted with your academic advisor! This is crucial, especially if you want to take a class that will count toward your major.
4. Complete the course for college credit
You will need to follow Boston University’s transfer credit policy for the course to count toward your degree. Speak with your academic advisor to make sure you understand the process.