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What should I consider when planning my course load?

Each term, you will need to determine the number of courses you take.You’ll have several considerations to think about as you plan your schedule – and they can have effects on your academic progress, financial situation, lifestyle and timing for degree completion.

check square 11Course Availability and Accesssiblity

Planning is important to avoid situations when you’re unable to enrol in required or prerequisite courses, or desired courses due to:

  • Course availability during term and class capacity
  • Course scheduling conflicts
  • Course location, transportation and commute times (e.g., if a course is offered at a different campus from your other courses, there may not be enough time for you to commute from one campus to the other)


TIP #1

Watch these video tutorials before enrolment to familiarize yourself with the process. You can also read about  for degree requirements, and reach out to your Faculty Advisor for program-specific requirements.

Your Academic Preparedness

Academic performance and success depend on your preparedness in taking on a higher course load. Good time management, diligent study habits and focus are key traits, but also consider:

  • Course difficulty and varied learning abilities among students
  • Your current academic standing and grade-related risks
  • Academic performance and curricular intensity before university


TIP #2

Understand ´óÏó´«Ã½'s standard grading distribution scale and the minimum GPA needed to remain in Good Academic Standing (GAS). Keep these in mind as you plan your degree!

Your Finances

Tuition fees can influence your decision on course loads and the time it takes for degree completion. Try to think about:

  • Tuition and student fees, including textbook costs, and your ability to pay on time
  • Your personal finances and any access to financial support from family members
  • Financial aid like scholarships, awards, bursaries, loans (i.e. eligibility for some depend on minimum course load requirements)


TIP #3

Use our Cost Calculator to help you estimate your expenses each term and help you budget for the school year.

Your personal life

While the academic and administrative sides of the student experience are important, these are only part of the whole equation. You’ll still need to accommodate other things in your life outside of school—they can impact your ability to take on higher course loads just as much, as all these compete for your time and a window in your daily or weekly schedule:

  • Work and/or volunteer commitments
  • Family and/or social obligations
  • Your physical and mental health, and well-being


Did you know?

The Work-Study Program gives students the opportunity to work in their field and participate in research-based projects part-time on campus. Work-Study hours are flexible and can make room for your obligations outside of academic pursits, while earning you income.

Experiential Learning

These are hands-on opportunities outside of the classroom that help you develop your skills, build your network and gain practical experience in your career. 

  • Co-op
  • Work-study
  • Study abroad / field school
  • Volunteer opportunities on- and off-campus

Your Academic Preparedness

Good time management, focus and consistent study habits will support your progress throughout your degree. It’s also important to keep in mind:

  • Differences in course difficulty and your learning pace
  • Your current academic standing and any grade-related risks
  • Capacity to dedicate time for study and assignments


TIP #2

Understand ´óÏó´«Ã½'s standard grading distribution scale and the minimum GPA needed to remain in Good Academic Standing (GAS). Keep these in mind as you plan your degree!

Your personal life

Academic and administrative responsibilities are important, but they’re only one part of your student schedule and experience. Your time outside of school also matters and plays a role in shaping what is achievable for your courseload and weekly routine:

  • Work and/or volunteer commitments
  • Family and/or social obligations
  • Clubs, hobbies and other interests


Did you know?

The Work-Study Program gives students the opportunity to work in their field and participate in research-based projects part-time on campus. Work-Study hours are flexible and can make room for your obligations outside of academic pursuits, while earning you income.

Meet with an academic advisor

Still need help deciding on your course load for the next term and beyond? An Academic Advisor can discuss your options and help you make informed decisions about getting your degree.

Book an appointment