Enrollment increases for winter session classes

By Bob Bacon, Special to the On-Line Forty-Niner

Monday, January 25, 1999

Recent enrollment figures of the 1999 winter session show many students are opting to squeeze classes into their busy schedules during the holiday vacation in hopes of graduating sooner, said Jennie Wirick from University College and Extension Services.

Wirick reported winter enrollment increased from 2,500 students last year to 2,600 this year.

On the first day of winter session, many of the offered classes were half-filled, Wirick said. Most of the classes were filled by the second or third day.

Even though the workload can be intense during the three-week period, students contend that winter session overall minimizes their workload for the following semesters.

Because the majority of the classes are general education courses, many students who attend would like to get these requirements out of the way, University College and Extension officials said.

There are various differences that set winter session apart from summer session.

The main difference is the duration of the courses. Classes during the summer last six weeks, while winter session lasts for only three weeks.

Because the courses are so impacted, many students choose summer school to reduce their unit load.

However, the rise in winter enrollment shows more students are willing to endure the heavy workload during the winter, Wirick said.

University College and Extension Services officials hope to add more courses for winter session next year.