Colleges with the 'one course at a time' system?

Hey everyone! I've recently heard about colleges implementing a 'one course at a time' approach to their curriculum, which sounds interesting. Could anyone share more details about this system and provide examples of colleges using this approach? Thanks!

Hello! The "one course at a time" approach, also known as the "block plan," is an alternative academic system in which students take a single course for an intensive period (usually 3-4 weeks) rather than the traditional course load of 4-5 classes per semester. This approach provides the opportunity for in-depth focus, immersive learning, and increased flexibility, as well as enables field trips or research projects to be better integrated into the curriculum.

Here are some colleges that implement the "one course at a time" system:

1. Colorado College: Known for pioneering the block plan, Colorado College offers students a wide range of majors, and each course lasts for 3.5 weeks followed by a 4-day break.

2. Cornell College: Located in Iowa, Cornell College follows a similar model to Colorado College, with students focusing on one course for 3.5 weeks, and then taking a 4-day break between blocks.

3. Quest University: Based in British Columbia, Canada, Quest University's block plan system allows students to take one course at a time in four-week blocks. Students are also required to create their own "Question" to guide their learning throughout their undergraduate years.

4. Tusculum University: Tusculum University in Tennessee offers a block plan named "Focused Academic Curriculum and Experiences" (FACETS) for their undergraduate students: students take one course at a time for 18 days followed by a 2-day break.

5. Maharishi International University: This Iowa-based university offers a "block system" curriculum where students can focus on one course every 3.5-4 weeks. The school also integrates the practice of Transcendental Meditation twice daily into their programs.

These colleges showcase how the "one course at a time" system provides a different style of learning for students who thrive in a focused and immersive environment. It's essential to consider your learning style and academic goals before deciding if this approach is a good fit for you.