Note about the MSN Program: The MSN program is not included in the Spring 2027 transition. MSN students will receive separate communication once a timeline has been confirmed.

 

PROGRAM STRUCTURE AND PACING

Is the 7-week transition automatic? Do I need to do anything to enroll?

Yes, the transition is automatic. Starting Spring 2027, all non-MSN graduate executive program students are enrolled in the 7-week format by default. No form submission or opt-in action is required. Your academic advisor can help you understand what the transition means for your specific course sequence.

Will my time to graduation remain the same?

The updated course structure is designed to maintain the same overall time to graduation while providing a more structured and predictable academic pathway.

How many courses will I take per subterm, and how many subterms are in an academic year?

Under the 7-week model, you will typically enroll in one course per subterm (Subterm 1 and Subterm 2), for a total of two courses per semester. With three semesters in an academic year, you can expect to complete six courses annually.

Is there an option to accelerate my path to graduation?

Given the intensity of the compressed format, overloads are not standard practice under the 7-week model. Students interested in accelerating their program should speak with their academic advisor to discuss options and confirm academic readiness.

How are the subterm schedules structured under the 7-week model?

Each semester is divided into two consecutive 7-week subterms: Subterm 1 and Subterm 2. Subterm 1 begins at the start of the semester, and Subterm 2 follows immediately after the week break between Subterms 1 and 2. Together, the two subterms constitute one full semester. Specific start and end dates are published in the academic calendar.

How does the pace of coursework change in the 7-week format, and how can I stay on track?

Because coursework is completed within a shorter instructional window, the pace is more condensed. Instructional quality, learning outcomes, and academic expectations remain the same. Log in to Canvas early each week, stay ahead of assignments and deadlines, communicate regularly with your faculty, and stay organized throughout each subterm.

How is instructional quality maintained in the 7-week format?

Courses are being intentionally redesigned for the 7-week structure in collaboration with faculty and instructional design professionals. Students will achieve the same learning outcomes and academic rigor as in the traditional format.

What support is available to help me succeed in the compressed format?

HU is committed to your success. A full range of support resources are available, including academic advising, Student Success coaching, faculty office hours, and the OIS Helpdesk for technical assistance. Connect with these resources early and often throughout each session. Visit Support Portals - Harrisburg University to get started.

How can I balance work and graduate school in the 7-week format?

The 7-week format is designed for working professionals. Review your syllabus and assignment deadlines at the start of each subterm, log in to Canvas regularly, and communicate proactively with your instructor if you anticipate any conflicts. Your academic advisor and Student Success team are also available to help you plan effectively.

What resources are available if I need extra support?

Reach out early if you find yourself falling behind. Contact your instructor directly and connect with Student Success via Support Portals - Harrisburg University. Proactive communication is especially valuable in a condensed format.


REGISTRATION AND ACADEMIC CALENDAR

How does the add/drop period work under the 7-week format?

Each 7-week subterm has its own add/drop period, which is shorter than the traditional 14-week format given the condensed timeline. Specific add/drop deadlines for each subterm are published in the Academic Calendar. Review these deadlines at the start of each subterm.

What should I know about registration and deadlines for Executive Weekend courses?

Registration processes remain similar to what you already know; however, pay close attention to academic calendar deadlines under the 7-week session structure, including add/drop periods, withdrawal deadlines, and grading timelines.

Where can I view my weekend session dates in the registration system?

Weekend sessions appear in the course schedule and academic calendar through the university registration system. After registering, view your schedule in myHU > Academics > My Schedule.

How is the time between semesters/subterms structured under the 7-week model?

The academic calendar includes a break between Subterm 1 and Subterm 2 within each semester, as well as the standard breaks between semesters. Specific break dates are published in the Academic Calendar, available through the HU website and your myHU student portal. This is different from a full-semester break, which can be requested from the International Student Office: Semester Break Overview and Eligibility.


ADVISING AND STUDENT SUPPORT

Who can help me understand my schedule?

Start by reviewing your schedule in myHU > Academics > My Schedule. If you have questions, your academic advisor or Student Success is available to help.

How can an academic advisor help me plan my course sequence?

Academic advisors and Student Success are available to map your course sequence under the new format.

Where can I view my academic progress and access support?

Your academic progress is available through myHU Academics. Contact your academic advisor or Student Success for additional support.

How do I request ADA accommodations?

Reach out to ADA@HarrisburgU.edu to get started. The accommodations team will guide you through the process.

Where can I find technical and instructional support?

Contact your instructor for course-related concerns. For technical assistance, contact the OIS Helpdesk via Support Portals - Harrisburg University. Additional resources are available on the 7-week transition SharePoint site.


TUITION AND BILLING

Will my total tuition cost remain the same under the 7-week format?

Yes. Your total tuition cost remains the same and is charged at the per-credit rate.

How will my semester charges appear on my bill?

Charges for both Subterm 1 and Subterm 2 will appear on your bill at the same time. Because the two subterms together represent one full academic term, tuition is billed upfront and is due before Subterm 1 begins.

Why is tuition for both subterms billed at the same time?

The two 7-week subterms together constitute a single academic term equivalent to the prior 14-week semester. Tuition is billed and due at the start of the term, consistent with the previous structure.

Are payment plan options available for executive format programs?

Full payment covering both subterms is due before the start of Subterm 1. Payment plans are not available for executive format programs. Contact the Business Office via Support Portals - Harrisburg University with any billing questions.

Why is it important to pay my balance in full by the Subterm 1 deadline?

Paying in full by the Subterm 1 deadline ensures uninterrupted access to your coursework and protects your enrollment status.

What is the refund policy if I drop a Subterm 2 course?

Refund eligibility for Subterm 2 is based on the applicable add/drop deadline. Drops processed within the refund window are eligible for a refund; after that deadline, Subterm 2 tuition is non-refundable. Refer to the Academic Calendar for specific dates.

How do refund deadlines work for each subterm?

Each subterm has its own add/drop and refund schedule, published in the Academic Calendar. Knowing both timelines will help you protect your eligibility for refunds.

Why is Subterm 2 tuition due at the start of the term rather than when Subterm 2 begins?

Subterms 1 and 2 together constitute your full course load for the academic term. This billing structure also aligns with F-1 regulations, which require full-time enrollment to be demonstrated across the complete academic term.