Standard Calendar and Meeting Times

Defining a Credit Hour

The University of Kansas uses the Federal definition of a credit hour, which states:

A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally-established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

1. One hour* of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out of class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or
2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work including simulation, online/distance/hybrid courses, standardized patient experiences, preceptor visits, internships, practica, studio work, independent study, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

*A class hour at the University of Kansas is typically 50 minutes to allow students and faculty time to transition between classes and buildings.