Unit Requirement (per quarter) and Balanced Schedule

The normal workload is 15 units per quarter. This workload represents the level required to graduate in 2 years if all your preparatory courses are completed.

The UCD academic experience may be very different from your previous academic experience. To do well, you should plan to spend at least 30 - 40 hours a week attending classes and studying. (A full-time job!) Students with large work or family commitments should discuss an appropriate amount of units per quarter with their adviser.

 

We recommend that first-quarter transfer students balance their schedule with major courses and other courses and electives such as General Education, English, non-science courses, seminars, research, or internships.

We know you that want to graduate as quickly as possible, but be aware:

• If you take only science courses, especially in your first quarter, you run the risk of negatively impacting your GPA due to the intensity of our science courses. Establish yourself during your first quarter. Challenge yourself in following quarters.
• If you only take the minimum to graduate, you may appear to be an average or unexciting candidate in the eyes of future employers and graduate/professional schools. Medical schools are looking for well-rounded candidates.

Instead of thinking what is the fastest way to complete your degree, realize that you have achieved one of your goals- you are a student at UCD. Grab this opportunity and include courses and special opportunities that will enhance your future life. There is a lot you can do in the next two years on campus.