The number of credit hours required to complete a degree program varies depending on the institution, the level of study (undergraduate or graduate), and the specific major or field of study. For example, a bachelor's degree typically requires the completion of 120 credit hours, while an associate degree may require around 60 credit hours.
Each course a student takes is worth a certain number of credit hours. For example, a three-credit-hour course typically involves three hours of classroom instruction per week, plus an additional six to nine hours of outside work such as reading, assignments, and studying.
The purpose of credit hours is to ensure that students have completed a sufficient amount of academic work to demonstrate mastery of the material and earn their degree. They also provide a standard way of comparing academic achievements between different students and institutions.
In addition to meeting the minimum credit hour requirements for their degree, students may also take additional elective courses to expand their knowledge or explore different areas of interest. These elective courses can help students develop a broader understanding of their major or field of study, as well as gain valuable skills and experiences that can benefit them in their careers.