15 to Finish
15 credit hours per semester
Do the math, Spartans – 120 credit hours divided by 4 years = 30 credit hours per year or 15 credit hours per semester.
You’ll stay on track, save money and graduate on time, if you take at least 15 hours each semester.
Research has shown that the payoffs for taking at least 15 hours per semester are huge:
- Reduced student loan debt
- Savings on tuition, housing, and fees
- Better academic outcomes
- Earlier entry into your career
Plan for it
Talk with your adviser about building a balanced schedule with the right courses for your degree.
Schedule it
Register for at least 15 credits each semester.
Commit to it
Get to know your professors, prioritize your studies, and talk to a campus counselor if you need help.
Have questions or need assistance, these folks can help.
- College is a commitment. Earning 15 credits per semester may not be easy, but it will give you the advantage of graduating on time and getting ahead. Know the courses you need to graduate, and meet with your adviser to map out a plan to earn your degree on time.
- Make school your priority. If it’s possible, cut back on work time so you can earn 15 credits per semester and finish faster. The payoff in your salary as a college graduate will be worth it.
- If you have to work, consider working on campus while taking 15 credits. You’ll have more flexibility in your schedule and will have a shorter commute time than if you work off campus.
- Fill out a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), you may be eligible for grants and free gift aid which do not have to be paid-back. With financial assistance, you can concentrate on your studies, work fewer hours and finish college faster. If you have questions, please contact this team.
- Be proactive and ask for help. On campus, you’re surrounded with people and resources with the purpose of helping you get your degree. Ask for help from professors, teaching assistants, academic advisers and even fellow students when you need it.
- Take summer classes! Even if you can’t take 15 credits a semester, take summer classes to stay on track.
Student Success
Need a plan for graduation or have questions about staying on track? Be sure to contact your adviser or make an appointment with the Student Success Center.
Financial Aid
Remember to consult the Financial Aid Office to find out about your aid package and how taking 15 hours each semester impacts it.
Degree Requirements
Be sure to check the Academic Catalog for a complete listing of degree requirements.
You can also check out all the majors and programs offered at USC Upstate.