Structure of the Program of Study
Instruction at UOS is offered in the fall and spring terms, each lasting 15 weeks. These terms include 12 weeks of scheduled classes, followed by an 8–9-day study period for preparation of final coursework or optional continued instruction by the instructor. A 7-day final exam period concludes each term. Faculty propose courses through their respective departments, which review and approve the course structure to ensure it meets UOS’s criteria for awarding academic credit.
Structure of Courses
Courses at UOS require between 3 to 7 hours of class time per week. Many courses include lecture sessions complemented by discussion seminars or practical sessions for in-depth exploration and hands-on learning.
Discussion-based courses focus on critical evaluation and interactive learning. Faculty and select graduate students facilitate these sessions to encourage participation and exploration of ideas.
Studio and seminar courses meet for extended periods, involving collaborative projects, research, and creative work. Seminars are typically upper-level courses, except for introductory courses specifically designed for first-year students.
Science and technology courses at UOS may include lectures, discussion groups, and required laboratory work. Labs are designed to promote experiential learning and direct engagement with the subject matter.
Regardless of the course format, each course credit corresponds to an average of 12 hours of academic work per week, which includes both in-class time and coursework outside of scheduled sessions.
Course Selection
Each term, students submit their course selections online. To support this process, UOS provides a comprehensive course catalog outlining available courses and their meeting times. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisors to plan their course schedules and ensure they meet program requirements.
Advanced Placement
UOS recognizes advanced academic achievement through multiple pathways, including standardized exams, departmental placement tests, and prior college coursework. Placement policies are determined by individual departments and detailed in the UOS catalog.
Key features of UOS’s advanced placement policy:
- Advanced placement may allow students to enroll in higher-level courses.
- Language placement tests may satisfy language requirements.
- Advanced placement cannot be used to fulfill writing or general education requirements.
- Advanced placement may reduce the total number of required terms for graduation in specific cases.
Dropping and Adding Courses
Students may add courses until the second week of the term and drop courses until the ninth week with appropriate permissions. Changes beyond these deadlines require special approval and may affect the student’s academic standing.
Normal and Minimum Course Load
Undergraduate students at UOS typically enroll in four courses per term. Variations in course load require approval from academic advisors and the relevant dean.
For exceptional circumstances, students may be allowed a reduced course load with prior approval, ensuring they meet the minimum credit requirements for their degree.
Attendance Policy
Full participation and consistent engagement are essential at UOS. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and be prepared to contribute actively. Absences should be communicated in advance and arrangements made to make up missed work.
Extended absences may lead to academic review and, if necessary, a leave of absence.
Independent Work and Research
Independent research and creative projects are integral to the UOS experience. Junior and senior students engage in substantial independent work under faculty guidance, culminating in a senior thesis or project.
Completed senior theses are archived in the UOS Library and, where appropriate, made available for research purposes.
The Rule of 12
Students in certain programs at UOS are limited to 12 one-term courses within a specific department to promote interdisciplinary learning. Exceptions may be granted for students pursuing dual specializations or studying abroad.
Completion of Academic Work
All coursework must be submitted by the deadlines set by instructors and the university. Failure to meet deadlines without prior approval may result in penalties or failing grades for incomplete work. Final exams are scheduled at the end of each term, and all students are required to participate.Structure of the Program of Study
Instruction at UOS is offered in the fall and spring terms, each lasting 15 weeks. These terms include 12 weeks of scheduled classes, followed by an 8–9-day study period for preparation of final coursework or optional continued instruction by the instructor. A 7-day final exam period concludes each term. Faculty propose courses through their respective departments, which review and approve the course structure to ensure it meets UOS’s criteria for awarding academic credit.
Structure of Courses
Courses at UOS require between 3 to 7 hours of class time per week. Many courses include lecture sessions complemented by discussion seminars or practical sessions for in-depth exploration and hands-on learning.
Discussion-based courses focus on critical evaluation and interactive learning. Faculty and select graduate students facilitate these sessions to encourage participation and exploration of ideas.
Studio and seminar courses meet for extended periods, involving collaborative projects, research, and creative work. Seminars are typically upper-level courses, except for introductory courses specifically designed for first-year students.
Science and technology courses at UOS may include lectures, discussion groups, and required laboratory work. Labs are designed to promote experiential learning and direct engagement with the subject matter.
Regardless of the course format, each course credit corresponds to an average of 12 hours of academic work per week, which includes both in-class time and coursework outside of scheduled sessions.
Course Selection
Each term, students submit their course selections online. To support this process, UOS provides a comprehensive course catalog outlining available courses and their meeting times. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisors to plan their course schedules and ensure they meet program requirements.
Advanced Placement
UOS recognizes advanced academic achievement through multiple pathways, including standardized exams, departmental placement tests, and prior college coursework. Placement policies are determined by individual departments and detailed in the UOS catalog.
Key features of UOS’s advanced placement policy:
- Advanced placement may allow students to enroll in higher-level courses.
- Language placement tests may satisfy language requirements.
- Advanced placement cannot be used to fulfill writing or general education requirements.
- Advanced placement may reduce the total number of required terms for graduation in specific cases.
Dropping and Adding Courses
Students may add courses until the second week of the term and drop courses until the ninth week with appropriate permissions. Changes beyond these deadlines require special approval and may affect the student’s academic standing.
Normal and Minimum Course Load
Undergraduate students at UOS typically enroll in four courses per term. Variations in course load require approval from academic advisors and the relevant dean.
For exceptional circumstances, students may be allowed a reduced course load with prior approval, ensuring they meet the minimum credit requirements for their degree.
Attendance Policy
Full participation and consistent engagement are essential at UOS. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and be prepared to contribute actively. Absences should be communicated in advance and arrangements made to make up missed work.
Extended absences may lead to academic review and, if necessary, a leave of absence.
Independent Work and Research
Independent research and creative projects are integral to the UOS experience. Junior and senior students engage in substantial independent work under faculty guidance, culminating in a senior thesis or project.
Completed senior theses are archived in the UOS Library and, where appropriate, made available for research purposes.
The Rule of 12
Students in certain programs at UOS are limited to 12 one-term courses within a specific department to promote interdisciplinary learning. Exceptions may be granted for students pursuing dual specializations or studying abroad.
Completion of Academic Work
All coursework must be submitted by the deadlines set by instructors and the university. Failure to meet deadlines without prior approval may result in penalties or failing grades for incomplete work. Final exams are scheduled at the end of each term, and all students are required to participate.