Course release requests will be considered when substantial non-instructional work goes above and beyond traditional faculty expectations, including work that:
- Directly supports student success, retention, and enrollment
- Advances program growth or accreditation needs
- Is externally funded (e.g., grant-supported release time)
- Is part of an established faculty hiring agreement
When possible, course releases should be scheduled to minimize
disruption for students. Priority for approval will be given when a course release does not disrupt course offerings:
- Necessary for progression in the degree program
- Critical for retention and timely graduation
- Support strategic enrollment growth
A single course release is defined as equivalent to 100 or more hours in a given semester (7 hours per week over a standard 15‑week semester) or across an academic year.
- Note: The benchmark of 7 hours per week is based on the instructional workload of a 3‑credit course, typically including 3 hours per week in class, and 3 to 4 hours per week preparation, grading, and student support.
To help maintain an active record of course release requests and approvals in the Office of Academic Affairs, this form must be submitted every semester on the following due dates:
| Semester | Due Date |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester | February 1 |
| Spring Semester | October 1 |