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FAQs-Pre-Course-Registration

What is Course Request and why can't I be guaranteed my courses?

At Virginia Tech, all students request their courses. There are two time periods for registration, Course Request and Drop/Add. Course Request for incoming University Studies/Explore Technology students happens before Orientation. Drop/Add happens at Orientation. Courses are not guaranteed due to many reasons, limited course availability, making sure students do not repeat courses in which they are bringing in credit, and some courses might be requirements towards particular restricted majors.  

When will I be able to change my course schedule?

Students will see and adjust their entire schedule at Orientation including dropping and adding courses while working with an academic advisor.

Is being undecided or exploring majors normal?

Yes, being undecided or exploring your major is very normal. By taking your time on your major decision, you are able to make the best decision possible. Many students change their major once at Virginia Tech. You will have at least a semester and up to two years to make your decision. University Studies is one of largest majors for incoming first-year students at Virginia Tech, so you are in good company.

Will I still graduate on-time as a University Studies/Explore Technology Student?

Yes, students from University Studies/Explore Technology still graduate on time. Students in University Studies/Explore Technology take a majority of their general education courses to start examining different majors. Each student is assigned to an advisor who helps students explore major options and plan towards graduation.

Students in University Studies/Explore Technology can declare their major as early as December after their first semester. Most students declare their major after their first semester or first year with University Studies/Explore Technology.

I keep reading about credit hours. What's a credit hour?

A credit hour (also called just “credits” or hours”) is a unit of measurement for college courses. Courses will vary in credit hours based on the amount of in class and outside of class effort they require. 

The average course is 3 credit hours and most of the courses you’ll take will be worth 3 credits. However, you might take a 4 credit math or science course.

You’ll have to earn at least 120 credit hours in order to graduate, so it’s important that you take enough credits each semester to stay on track.

I've heard it's important to be a full-time student. How many credit hours should I take to be full-time?

In order to stay on track for graduation, we encourage students to take at least 15 hours each semester, but 12 hours is considered full-time. This means taking 4 or 5 classes per semester. 

Have more questions?

Contact University Studies at 540-231-8440 or UnivStudies@vt.edu.