Credit Hour Policy and Compliance
All Mount Saint Mary College degree and certificate programs are approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). The Mount Saint Mary College credit hour calculations for degree and certificate programs follow NYSED guidelines – which are based on the U.S. Department of Education’s definition of credit hour.
The college is responsible for all aspects of the curriculum and degree program requirements. Mount Saint Mary College has a curriculum committee that reviews proposed new and revised courses and degree programs, including the credit hours associated with each.
NYSED – Credit Hour Definition
All courses and degree programs at the University must comply with Section 50.1 (o) of the New York State Commissioner of Education Regulations:
(o) Semester hour means a credit, point, or other unit granted for the satisfactory completion of a course which requires at least 15 hours (of 50 minutes each) of instruction and at least 30 hours of supplementary assignments, except as otherwise provided pursuant to section 52.2(c)(4) of this Subchapter. This basic measure shall be adjusted proportionately to translate the value of other academic calendars and formats of study in relation to the credit granted for study during the two semesters that comprise an academic year.
Source: NYSED Commissioner of Regulations: http://www.highered.nysed.gov/ocue/title_8_chapter_ii_regulations_o.htm