How to Graduate in Four Years
Rules to Follow
Here are some basic rules to follow if you want to graduate in four years:
- Take as close to 15 credits per term as possible. If you fall behind the 30 credit per year goal, make up the missing credits as soon as you can; the best time to do this is during Pitt’s summer sessions.
- A 15-credit course load translates to approximately 45 hours per week of academic activity. For every hour of in-class time, you should expect to study approximately two hours outside of class (including library, computer labs, writing, homework, and study time). Because of the amount of time required for coursework, you should keep obligations such as part-time jobs to a minimum.
- Plan to finish skills requirements by the end of your freshman year and all Arts and Sciences general education requirements by the end of your junior year. This will give you more freedom choosing courses your senior year.
- Plan to declare your major by the end of your sophomore year. Speak with your academic advisor about this in your individual appointments. While you are exploring areas of interest, ask people about their jobs, what they do, what kind of education they had, and whether they like their work. To get information concerning potential careers, visit Career Services (227 William Pitt Union) and the Counseling Center (334 William Pitt Union) early in your college career.
- Apply yourself to your coursework, and earn good grades. If you fail or withdraw from courses, you will have to make up the equivalent credits, and this can stall your academic progress. And go to class! Believe it or not, missing class is the primary reason for low grades. Make use of faculty office hours—your instructors are here to answer questions, and they can help you understand ways to improve your performance before you withdraw from a course. Know the implications on your financial aid before withdrawing from a course.
- Learn time management skills and study strategies that are necessary for college success. Visit the Academic Resource Center to find out about free skill-building workshops and tutoring.
- Your academic career is your responsibility; be actively involved in it. Be knowledgeable and alert. Come prepared to your advisor meetings; know where you stand in regard to your academic progress and requirements. When you are organized, you are on top of your game.
