Schools that operate on the quarter system divide the school into four quarters: Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. The school year usually begins in late September and ends in mid-June. Each quarter is approximately 10 weeks, which is a relatively fast-paced learning environment. Professors usually cease instruction at the end of the 10 weeks and finals will take place over the 11th week. Students on the quarter system can graduate in 9 quarters or take one less course per quarter than students on the semester system.
There are a number of benefits of taking courses under a quarter system. One benefit is that terms end earlier, allowing students to take breaks and move on to the next course sooner. Students may find, however, the pace of the quarter system to be too fast. Students may find themselves taking mid-terms or turning in papers after only four or five weeks of instruction and may be unable to keep up with the fast pace of the classroom.
Likewise, students who get sick or must take time off from class may find it more difficult to catch up later. On the other hand, this may provide students with the opportunity to hone their time-management skills, which will be beneficial upon graduation. Also, students who are taking fewer courses may be able to focus on the course material to a greater degree than students on the semester system.
Semesters typically last 14 weeks, with an additional week or two for finals. Schools operating on a semester system usually begin in August and end in December and resume in January and end in May. Students on the semester system take five courses per semester on average, though some take more. The semester system operates on a much slower pace than the quarter system. Students on the semester system can graduate after completing eight semesters at their university.
Students on the semester system may enjoy many benefits. The slower pace of instruction allows for students to become more familiar with and engaged in their school work. Students will also have more time to prepare for midterms, finals and papers on a semester system. Perhaps one of the more notable advantages of taking courses under a semester system is the fact that employers tailor their recruitment to the semester system. Students who operate on a quarter system often find it more challenging to find jobs or internships that fit their academic schedule and must strive to make arrangements that fit them.