How much harder is 21 credit hours vs 18?

Question

Basically, I'll have 21 credit hours to complete after I finish my summer classes.  Should I break that up into two semesters, or try to get it done in one?  I was just curious if I over looked a critical reason why I shouldn't try to just finish in December.

Reasons why I think it's a good idea/would work:
-2 of the 7 classes will be online and I have always done much better in online classes than regular classes.
-It will be 3 soc classes, 2 intro business classes (for a minor so nothing too hefty), and 2 upper level electives (probably intro to anthro and some other intro class or musicology class).
-I've taken 18hrs the past 3 semesters successfully.
-I also don't work.  No extracurriculars.
-Knowing it's my last semester will keep me motivated.
-I always get better grades in the fall.

Reasons I'm worried it won't work:
-I don't want to get burned out.  
-And I'm worried that 21 hours might be too much.
-Also, I'm worried about not having time to find a job after graduation.  It's cool to graduate early, but not so much if I can't get a job.  Granted, I could get a basic cover letter and resume ready in the 3 weeks in between the summer and fall semesters or during breaks.

Anything I haven't considered?  Has anyone done this before?

its_victoria08 · Accepted Answer

I've taken 21 hours a couple of semesters and was fine with it. It was challenging, but, like you, I didn't have a job or any extracurriculars, so I had the time to focus on school.

If it were me, I'd be glad to get done early, so I'd make it work. But if you don't have a job lined up, and would like an opportunity for that to happen, maybe you should wait. That would be the only reason you would probably not want to go ahead with 21 hours, I think. All your other concerns are minor to me.

? · Answer

If you have any doubts that you think it could be too much I would definitely break it up into two semesters. Taking your time and spending extra time on assignments instead of rushing for due dates will help in the long run. Learning the material is the true reason why you are in school. I definitely wouldn't rush the courses along. 

I am a full time student as well. I just completed 16 credit hours this past semester and it was rough. I also work full time so that was added stress. In the Fall 2012 I am going to take 15 credit hours and in the Spring of 2013 I will have 14 credit hours. I was stressed to the max this past semester and plus I was hospitalized for a medical problem. I didn't factor any of the medical when I took on 16 credit hours.

If you think you can handle 21 credit hours, go for it. But I definitely don't recommend it. You have to factor in personal time to your equation as well. Reading for leisure, what if you take a mini vacation to get away, what if you have to go out of town for any reason, any family issues would have to be considered, and also your own health would be number one. The stress can be avoided taking two separate semesters.

How much harder is 21 credit hours vs 18?

2 Answers