Taking summer classes is something many college students consider as they think about how to effectively use their time between the spring and fall semesters.
With Summer Session 2026 registration now open at Rowan University, this is a good time to understand how summer classes work and determine whether they make sense for your academic plan.
What Are Summer Classes?
Summer classes are courses offered outside the traditional fall and spring semesters. They typically take place over a shorter period of time, meaning the same material is covered in an accelerated format.
While not necessarily harder, the faster pace requires strong time management and focus.
Why Do Students Take Summer Courses?
Students take summer college courses for many reasons, including:
- Catching up on degree requirements
- Getting ahead to graduate earlier
- Exploring a new subject or elective outside their main field of study
- Taking advantage of flexible, convenient online courses that fit around your schedule
Do College Summer Classes Count Toward GPA?
Yes. In most cases, college summer classes count toward your GPA. Strong performance in a summer course can positively impact your cumulative GPA, and the credits earned apply fully toward your degree requirements.
Are Summer Classes Worth It For College Students?
For many college students, summer classes are worth it because they provide a focused way to make academic progress without the demands of a full semester schedule.
With fewer courses taken at once, students may find it easier to stay organized and concentrate on one subject at a time. Summer enrollment can also help students recover credits, lighten a future semester, or create space later on for internships, research, or other academic opportunities.
“I took two online summer classes to stay on track to graduate. It made my fall and spring semesters lighter, and I found them easier to handle since I wasn’t taking as many courses at once. The professors were flexible, too. Just make sure you stay on top of assignments because it’s easy to lose track during the summer.”
– Briana T., Public Relations & Advertising Major
For those balancing work or family responsibilities, online summer course options may offer additional flexibility.
How Many Summer Classes Should I Take?
This is one of the most common questions college students ask, and the answer depends on your schedule, responsibilities, and comfort with fast-paced courses.
A general guideline many students follow:
- One course if you are working full time or balancing major commitments
- Two courses if you want steady progress without feeling overloaded
- Three courses only if you are confident managing an accelerated schedule
Because summer classes move quickly, most students find that taking fewer courses than they would during fall or spring leads to better academic outcomes.
Rowan University Summer Credit Limits
At Rowan University:
- Matriculated undergraduate students (students enrolled in a Rowan degree program) may register for up to 18 credits over the summer
- Non-matriculated undergraduate students (such as visiting students or students taking courses prior to their official term of admission) may register for up to 11.5 credits
While these are the maximum allowable credits, students are generally advised to take no more than 2-3 courses in the summer and no more than 2 courses per individual summer session.
What Kind of Class Should I Take Over the Summer?
Choosing the right summer course often depends on your goals and what is available during the session.
Some students use summer to complete required courses, such as general education or prerequisite classes, so they can focus on major-specific coursework during the academic year. Others take advantage of the lighter schedule to focus on a more challenging course.
Summer sessions can also be a good time for experiential or applied learning. For example, students completing internships may enroll in a supervised internship or practicum course if it aligns with their program requirements. In some cases, institutions may offer study abroad or travel-based learning during the summer term.
Before registering, it can help to:
- Review your degree requirements
- Think about how summer credits could simplify a future semester
- Check course availability and session length
Summer Session 2026 at Rowan University
Rowan University offers multiple ways for students to make progress over the summer while maintaining flexibility.
Students can expect multiple summer sessions and in-person and online course options.
To explore available summer courses, browse the full list of summer sessions through Section Tally. We also encourage you to review key registration dates and deadlines so you can plan confidently and stay on track.
Before You Register for Summer Classes
Current Rowan students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor to confirm that courses align with degree requirements and graduation plans.
Students who plan to use financial aid or loans for summer classes should review summer aid eligibility requirements and contact the Office of Financial Aid to ensure enrolling will not affect their eligibility for the summer or future terms.
Visiting students enrolled at other institutions should also consult with their advisor and/or contact their Registrar’s Office regarding the credit transfer policy. If you experience any issues with registration or need to request an override, please contact Rowan University’s Office of Winter and Summer Sessions (OWSS) at winterandsummer@rowan.edu or 856-256-5133.
How to Register for Summer Classes at Rowan University
Current Rowan Students
- Select your course(s) through Section Tally.
- Register online via Rowan Self-Service.
- Pay your bill according to the billing and payment deadlines.
Visiting Students
Any visiting or incoming student (first-year, transfer, post-bac, graduate-level, etc.) who registers for a course prior to the term for which they are officially admitted, is considered a non-matriculated student. These students must still meet any and all pre-requisites or restrictions for the course(s) of interest.
Steps to register for summer classes:
- Select courses through Section Tally.
- Complete the appropriate activation form:
- Undergraduate Activation Form (undergraduate courses)
- Graduate Non-Matriculated Form (graduate courses)
- Register through Rowan Self-Service after receiving your Rowan ID.
- Pay your bill according to the billing and payment deadlines.
