Structure of Degrees in America

Undergraduate degrees at PLU, and across America, are taught over four years and earn you a degree depending upon the area you choose to study:  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). PLU is a traditional four year academic university and your degree will be structured as follows:

Your first year

As a Freshman, the focus is on:

• introductory courses giving a solid grounding in a wide range of subjects
• a required core curriculum which may include mathematics, science, English, history, logic and philosophy, but which also allows you to choose electives in subjects that interest you
• introductory courses in what you hope will become your main discipline of study (known as your major). For example, you might take Economics as a freshman if you wish to study a Business major

Your second year

In your Sophomore year, you will:

• complete the core curriculum and advance in some subjects to the next tier
• begin taking prerequisite classes for your major if you have decided on it (however, you are not yet required to formally declare a major)

Your third year

In your Junior year, you will:

• Have declared your major
• Begin the advanced coursework for your major

Your fourth year

In your Senior year, you will:

• Take your last exams
• Complete the final classes required to earn your Bachelor's degree

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The semester system

The University's academic year takes place over two semesters. Each semester is approximately 3 months in duration.

The Fall Semester usually runs from early September until mid December. There is then a 1 month winter break. The Spring Semester runs from early February until late May, and is followed by 3 month summer break.

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Next Steps:

• Majors 
• Apply today
• Contact our Student Enrollment Advisors for more information