When deciding the number of classes that you will be taking online each semester, it is important to keep in mind that in general, online courses require more of your time than traditional on-campus courses.

Students familiar with on-campus courses usually take a full course load of 11 to 18 credit hours each semester. For the online student, a full load IS NOT RECOMMENDED.

We recommend that you begin the online CLS program by taking six to eight (6-8) credit hours per semester, especially because you are required to be employed in a clinical laboratory while completing your degree. After a semester or two in the online program, you may feel that you can add additional credit hours to your schedule.

When you are accepted to the CLS online program, you will be sent an Academic Contract that lists the specific general education, support courses and CLS classes that you are required to take (see the online AAS Course Requirements page). The list of classes will reflect any transfer credits from other institutions that apply toward the general education and required support courses for your CLS AAS degree.

We suggest that you develop a semester-by-semester plan of courses based on the information in your Academic Contract. Pay special attention to the prerequisites that are required for any of the CLS classes. You're encouraged  to have your CLS faculty advisor review your semester plan.