LLCC expands eight-week class offerings

Students in classroom with laptops open

A growing trend in higher education, eight-week condensed classes offer students flexibility and the ability to focus on fewer classes and finish those classes in fewer days.

Eight-week classes provide the same content, number of credits, services and support as semester-long, 16-week classes, but on a different schedule. There are more options for students to get started or back on track.

"Eight-week classes allow students to focus on fewer classes at a time," explains Leslie Johnson, assistant vice president, student success. "A student may traditionally take five classes at the same time for 16 weeks. With eight-week classes, they can take those same five classes, but only focus on two for the first eight weeks and then three the next eight weeks."

Many new eight-week classes are being offered on the Springfield campus, outreach centers and online.

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Tips for success in eight-week classes

From LLCC student success coaches

8 week classes. Flexible. Focus. Finish.
  1. Classes will move faster, so staying organized and on top of assignments is essential.
  2. Eight-week classes allow you to focus on fewer classes at one time, so use the extra brain space to focus better on each class.
  3. Don't hesitate to reach out to your professor when you have questions: email them, talk to them before or after class, and/or visit them during their office hours.
  4. Utilize the LLCC Center for Academic Success for study tips and success strategies. Be proactive and set up an appointment before your first test, quiz or project.
  5. Create a study/homework schedule that allows enough time each week to keep up with the faster pace of classes
  6. Get textbooks and access codes prior to the start of classes.
  7. Connect with your student success coach if you need any support or guidance.
  8. Be sure to check Canvas (online learning system) and LLCC email daily
  9. Make use of online study tools, free for students, such as Brainfuse and CircleIn.
  10. Don’t cram. Work on your classes in smaller chunks rather than waiting to work on everything at once.
  11. Most importantly, believe in yourself!

Story published in the LLCC FORWARD magazine, October 2022.