Due to the notable success of the University of Louisiana at Monroe ’s inaugural Wintersession, this opportunity will become a regular alternative for students each year.

The additional school term had previously been considered for a few years, and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita supplied the final incentive, as the university sought ways to aid the almost 1,000 affected ULM students (some of who were not able to register during the fall semester). Finally, however, the chance to take classes both on-campus and online appealed to a wide variety of students.

“The University exists to provide educational opportunities for its students,” said Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Stephen Richters. “Our students have told us that they find the Wintersession a useful and convenient educational opportunity.”

There were about 30 courses made available from December 12 - January 12, with a holiday break from December 23 - January 1. The four-week class sessions largely dealt with general education courses, affording all students a chance to improve their grades or get ahead on credit hours. About 400 students participated in the Wintersession, and the majority were not hurricane impacted students.

Due to the classes’ demanding pace, students were only allowed to register for up to six credit hours. As the tuition payment makes the Wintersession cost-effective, future possibilities could allow more faculty to be involved and thus permit a larger assortment of courses to be offered.