Quarterly vs. Semester Calendar at Lionel University
Lionel University operates on a quarterly calendar designed for flexibility, faster completion, and more frequent class start opportunities. This approach differs from traditional semester-based calendars, allowing students to progress through their programs at a steady, year-round pace.
How the Quarterly Calendar Works
-
Four 13-week terms each year: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer
-
10 weeks of instruction per term, followed by:
-
2 weeks for grading, wrap-up, and any extensions
-
1 preview week before the next course begins
-
Traditional Semester Model (for comparison):
-
Two main terms (Fall and Spring) of 15–16 weeks each
-
Optional shorter summer term of 6–8 weeks
Benefits of the Quarterly System
-
More frequent start dates – Four opportunities per year to begin classes
-
Shorter terms – Complete courses in 10 weeks instead of 15–16 weeks
-
Faster schedule adjustments – The next term is always just weeks away
-
Year-round enrollment options – Maintain momentum and potentially graduate faster
Impact on Class Registration
-
Start anytime – Multiple annual start dates reduce long waiting periods
-
Flexible course loads – Focus on fewer classes at a time
-
Quicker recovery – If you need to make a schedule change, the next term is close
Credits in a Quarterly System
-
Bachelor’s Degree: 180 quarter credits (equivalent to 120 semester credits)
-
Associate’s Degree: 90 quarter credits (equivalent to 60 semester credits)
Credit Conversion:
-
Semester → Quarter: multiply by 1.5
-
Quarter → Semester: multiply by 2/3
Financial Aid in a Quarterly System
-
Aid is disbursed at the start of each quarter in which you are enrolled
-
Financial aid is divided across the number of terms attended in a year
-
Pell Grant and loan eligibility remain based on enrollment status and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Graduation Timeline
Attending all four terms per year can allow students to finish sooner than in a semester system.
Transferring Credits
-
Lionel accepts transfer credits from both semester and quarter institutions
-
Conversion formulas apply to ensure accurate credit equivalencies
-
Mid-program transfers may require additional course mapping with an Academic Advisor
Challenges to Consider
-
Faster pace – Requires consistent time management
-
Credit conversions – May be needed for transfers between semester and quarter institutions
Degree Planning Tips
-
Work with your Academic Advisor to map out terms and course sequence
-
Decide on your attendance pattern: all four quarters or scheduled breaks
-
Plan your budget with quarterly aid disbursements in mind
Related Resources: