Most Intense Course Load?

Just curious here, has anyone taken a crazy number of units in a term? I heard it's possible to take over 20 units, but who's done it and survived? Are there major or colleges known for heavy course loads?

While it is possible to take over 20 units in a semester, it's generally not recommended. This would involve a substantial amount of work and could lead to high-stress levels and a potential decrease in academic performance due to the sheer volume of coursework. It's important to balance out your schedule so as not to get overwhelmed.

Many students who choose to take a heavier course load do so out of necessity, such as to graduate earlier or fulfill dual major requirements. Keep in mind that time management and study habits become increasingly crucial when taking on more than the usual course load.

In terms of majors, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors often take heavy course loads due to the technical and intensive nature of the coursework. Similarly, pre-med students often take a large number of units to meet both their major requirements and the requirements for medical school.

As for colleges, some institutions like Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and, on a graduate level, The University of Chicago Booth School of Business (for its compressed one-year MBA program), are known for their rigorous and intense academic environment. The coursework in such institutions could be heavier compared to other universities.

Students attempting a heavy course load often report needing to sacrifice other aspects of their college experience, like social activities or part-time jobs. I would advise you to consider carefully the total picture of your college experience before deciding to take on an excessive course load. It could be beneficial, depending on your career and academic goals, but adequate balance is crucial in ensuring your overall well-being and academic success.