Harrisburg University is transitioning away from its late-start semester format. Late Fall will be the final late-start semester, and students will transition into the university’s traditional semester structure with 7-week courses. 


The following FAQs explain what this change means for students currently enrolled in Late Fall. 


Transition Overview

Why is Harrisburg University discontinuing the Late semester format?

Harrisburg is moving to a unified 7-week week delivery model for graduate level programs. Discontinuing the Late semester format is apart of this transition. 


Most graduate programs ask you to juggle multiple courses at once across a 14-week semester. Harrisburg University's 7-week model is built differently. You take one course at a time, fully focused, for seven weeks then move to the next. The result is a faster sense of progress, less cognitive load, and a degree completion path designed for professionals with full schedules.


How does this transition affect me?

Students currently enrolled in Late Fall will transition into the Spring semester, beginning with Spring Subterm 2. You will register for your next course during the Spring registration period, which opens November 18. 


Is the transition automatic? 

The transition to the new semester structure is automatic. You do not need to opt into the new model however; you must register for your Spring Subterm 2 course when registration opens on November 18. Review your course sequence and contact your academic advisor if you need help identifying your next course. 


Registration and Academic Calendar

When does Spring Subterm 2 registration open?

Registration for Spring opens November 18. You will register for Sub term 2 at this time. Make sure you register for the appropriate course and review any applicable registration deadlines.


When does Spring Subterm 2 begin and end?

Spring Subterm 2 begins March 6 and ends April 27. Refer to the official academic calendar for applicable deadlines. 


When does my Late Fall semester end?

The Late Fall semester begins October 24 and ends February 12. Your Late Fall course will extend into Spring Subterm 1 as part of the transition plan. 


Will there be a break between my Late Fall course and Spring Subterm 2?

Yes, your Late Fall semester ends February 12, and Spring Subterm 2 begins March 6. Your next course is scheduled to begin during Spring Subterm 2. 


How many courses will I take during Spring Subterm 2? 

You will take one course during Spring Subterm 2 as part of this transition. Your Late Fall course will extend into Spring Subterm 1, and you will still be considered a full-time student during the transition. 


How do I know which course to register for?

Review the course sequence for your program or consult your academic advisor if you are unsure which course you should take next. Your advisor can help you identify the appropriate course based on your degree requirements and academic progress.


Course Delivery and Attendance

Will I need to attend an executive session during Spring Subterm 2?

No. There will not be an executive session for Spring Subterm 2. Your course will be delivered entirely online. 


Will my Spring Subterm 2 course be fully online? 

Yes. Your Spring Subterm 2 course will be delivered entirely online. Follow your instructor's directions for accessing course materials, participating in class activities, and completing assignments. 


Will the transition affect my academic progress or time to graduation?

Your anticipated graduation date has been adjusted to accommodate the transition. There will be no need to overload or adjust your course sequence to remain on track for graduation. If you are unsure about your course sequence, please contact your advisor or reference the academic catalog here.


Enrollment and International Student Status

Will I still be considered a full-time student if I take only one course during Spring Subterm 2? 

Yes. Under the university's planned transition arrangement, you will still be considered a full-time student. Your Late Fall course will extend into Spring Subterm 1 while you take one course during Spring Subterm 2. 


Will taking an entirely online course affect my F-1 status? 

The university has confirmed that the online delivery of the Spring Subterm 2 course under this transition plan will not impact your F-1 status. 


If you have questions about your individual immigration circumstances or other F-1 requirements, contact the university's designated international student services office. 


Who should I contact if I have questions about my enrollment or immigration status? 

Contact your academic advisor for questions about your course sequence and academic plan. For questions about your individual F-1 requirements, please consult with the International Student Office.


Additional Supports

What resources are available for students during this transition?

You may visit Support Portals - Harrisburg University to access university support resources. 

You can also find more resources on the 7 Week Transition Hub and Records and Registration's FAQ about the 7 Week Delivery Model.