Content
A course type identifies the instructional activity assigned to a course when it is created in CIM. It provides a shared understanding of the kinds of instructional activities students can expect in a specific course. Most courses are composed of a single type, though some may include multiple course types (for example, lecture, recitation or lab).
Courses should include multiple course types only when each type can be scheduled separately and follows a consistent meeting pattern. When setting up specific instances of a course in CLSS, the course type must align with what is defined in CIM.
In addition to describing instructional format, course types support institutional reporting and analysis by helping track student participation in specific kinds of educational experiences and the number of courses that provide them.
Course type is also associated with credit-hour assignment. One credit hour is equivalent to one hour (minimum 50 minutes) of lecture and two hours of out-of-class work each week. For standard 15-week semesters of instruction, as well as nonstandard (condensed) and online courses, minimum contact times are assigned for each credit hour based on the specific type of learning activity.
Because these designations are used for instruction, credit-hour assignment and reporting, it is important to select the course type that most accurately reflects the primary activity of the course section. Take extra care when identifying course types tied to specific institutional metrics to ensure all qualifying offerings are categorized consistently and appropriately.
Course Type Definitions
Activity (ACV) – A general instructional format involving active participation, such as those offered through the Rec Center (hiking, canoeing, CPR, etc.).
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Clinical (CLN) – Supervised, hands-on learning in a professional health or legal setting focused on applying skills with real clients or patients.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Creative Activity (CAC) – Faculty-supervised production of creative work.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Field (FLD) – Structured, inquiry-based observation or data collection conducted outside a traditional classroom setting, in which students directly interact with natural, historical or cultural subjects. Activities involve firsthand data gathering (e.g., note-taking, specimen collection, behavioral observation) and exclude passive observation of professional or institutional environments.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Independent Study (IND) – Self-directed academic work completed under faculty supervision, typically with individualized objectives and outcomes.
- 3 hours of combined contact time and out-of-class work per credit hour each week of instruction (exam time may be included as contact time at the instructor’s discretion)
Internship (INT) – Supervised professional experience in a workplace setting designed to integrate academic learning with practice.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Laboratory (LAB) – Hands-on experimental or practical work in which students apply disciplinary knowledge, theory or principles; typically associated with a lecture.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Lecture (LEC) – Instructor-led presentation of course content to convey foundational knowledge and concepts.
- 1 hour of contact time and 2 hours of out-of-class work per credit hour each week of instruction
Practicum (PRA) – A for-credit academic course designed to bridge classroom theory with practical, hands-on experience in a specific professional field.
- 3 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction (exam time may be included as contact time at the instructor’s discretion)
Professional Skill Development (PSD) – Instruction focused on developing applied, career-related competencies (e.g., communication, leadership, technical skills).
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Recitation (RCT) – Small-group instructional sessions used to reinforce lecture content through review, problem solving or discussion.
- Does not award credit hours
Research (RSC) – Faculty-supervised investigation contributing substantively to scholarly or creative work.
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Seminar (SEM) – An advanced, discussion-based course emphasizing critical analysis, student presentations and/or in-depth exploration of topics.
- 1 hour of contact time and 2 hours of out-of-class work per credit hour each week of instruction
Studio (SDO) – Hands-on instruction in creative expression through production, critique and/or iterative work (e.g., art, dance, design, architecture).
- 2-4 hours of contact time per credit hour each week of instruction
Online and Distance Learning
For any course type taught online or through distance learning during a standard 15-week semester, three (3) hours of student work is required each week per credit hour. Student work may include reading, research, online discussion, instruction, assigned group activities, and preparation of papers or presentations.
For terms under 15 weeks' duration, the same total contact and student work hours per credit hour still apply. (Example: internships require 30-60 contact hours per credit hour regardless of term length.)