Semester System
The University of Northern Colorado follows the early semester system in which the academic year is divided into two instructional semesters of approximately 15 weeks each. The academic year (fall, spring) begins in late August and concludes in mid-May, with a vacation break between the semesters. Courses are offered online during the vacation break starting after fall courses have ended and finishing prior to spring courses starting. A full slate of courses is offered during the summer semester. Students enrolling in the University for the first time may do so before the beginning of any semester.