How many credit hours can I take per semester as a graduate student?
At UMGC, graduate students must follow credit limits based on their program type:
Standard Credit Limits
- 3-Term Programs (GR3T): Up to 9 credits per term (6 credits recommended).
- 4-Term, Doctoral, and Data Analytics Programs: Limited to 6 credits per term. Overloads are not permitted.
Overload Eligibility
- Only GR3T students taking 8-week courses can request an overload.
- Must have a 3.0+ GPA.
- Must submit a written statement accepting responsibility for the extra workload.
Request Process
- Check your eligibility and program restrictions.
- Discuss your plan with your advisor.
- Submit your written statement (your advisor provides a template).
- Your advisor finalizes enrollment if approved.
Notes:
- Expect ~9 study hours per week per 3-credit class.
- Overloading may reduce the number of credits allowed in future terms.
- Extra courses mean additional tuition and fees.