Definitions for Course Components


Definitions for Course Components
ComponentCodeComponent Type*Description
ActivityACTOrganized SectionInstructor-facilitated course generally focused on "learning by doing" with significant student/instructor interaction. Musical or dance groups or fitness-related courses often are assigned this course component.
ClinicalCLNIndividualized InstructionCourses focused on student participation in client and client-related services. Instruction may occur within or outside an institutional setting and involves work with clients who receive professional services from students serving under direct supervision of a faculty member and/or an approved member of the agency staff.
DiscussionDIS, DSOOrganized sectionAdditional classroom session(s) associated with a credit bearing course, often a lecture, which may require separate enrollment. Course is led by an instructor but involves significant student input. Often gives students the opportunity to engage with course content in a small group.
Field StudiesFLDIndividualized instructionPractical, supervised training designed to supplement formal study. Students learn practical applications of classroom material and gain skills and knowledge relevant to their course of study. Almost all are done for academic credit. Field Studies are generally required as part of an academic program such as counseling, psychology, education, etc.
Independent StudyINDIndividualized instructionCourse designed to meet the needs of an individual student. May include individualized instruction or directed readings.
InternshipINTIndividualized instructionTypically one-time work experiences related to a students' major or career goal. The internship plan usually involves a student working in a professional setting under the supervision and monitoring of practicing professionals.
Individual ResearchRSHIndividualized instructionResearch directed all or in part by student(s) with instructor supervision.
Laboratory MainLABOrganized sectionInstructor-led course, usually credit-bearing. Students participate in hands-on experiments or activities that illustrate or augment the material presented in their program overall.
LaboratoryLBNOrganized sectionAdditional classroom session(s) associated with a credit bearing course, often a lecture, which requires separate enrollment. Students participate in hands-on experiments or activities that illustrate or augment the material presented in the corresponding lecture or in their program overall.
LectureLECOrganized sectionInstructor-led course, usually credit-bearing.
PracticumPRAIndividualized InstructionPractical student work under the supervision of a faculty member or a professional in the student's field and regular consultation with a faculty member.
SeminarSEMOrganized sectionAn instructor-led course, usually credit-bearing, with a small number of students collectively exploring a topic or field of study. May be directed all or in part by the enrolled students.
Thesis/DissertationTHEIndividualized instructionHours taken as part of a student's individual research project, generally in preparation for a written presentation of research results and required for completion of a specific degree program or special distinction in that program.

* - Component Types:

  • Organized Section - course meets regularly, generally at a specified time and place; courses are intended to be taken by groups of students
  • Individualized instruction - course usually meets 'by appt'; each course section is often taken by one or a few students