Understanding Course Progression

Many students ask what courses they should take together or in which order. This is known as "course progression" and understanding this is important as you work towards completing your program. For example, be sure to complete all prerequisites in the correct order before attempting to register for upper-level courses.

While each program and your individual needs vary, the general course progression shown below is recommended for most students.

Undergraduate Course Progression

If you’re in an associate or bachelor’s program, the standard undergraduate course progression is:

General education courses
Research methods (if required)
100- and 200-level core and concentration courses
Electives
300- and 400-level core and concentration course
Senior Seminar (if required as a final program requirement)

Graduate Course Progression

For master’s programs, the standard graduate degree course progression is:

Research methods (if required) or other required first course
Core courses
Major or concentration courses
Electives
Final comprehensive exam, thesis course, capstone or practicum course