As a general rule, you should allow two to three hours outside of class for study purposes for each hour spent in class. Authorship - It is a requirement of the department that your exams, homework, research reports, and term papers reflect you own work, unless you are explicitly directed otherwise by your instructor. Proper methods of referencing outside sources of information should be used at all times. Additional information on this requirement may be obtained by reading the University Catalog section on Academic Dishonesty. If you have any questions concerning the above responsibilities, please contact your psychology instructor or the psychology department chair.
Many students find it necessary to work and go to school.
A frequently asked question is how many units should be taken if you are working. This question is difficult to answer precisely because one needs to take into account many factors such as the type of courses you are taking, your ability, the commuting time to school and work and family or social commitments. 15 Many students enter CSUF, especially community college transfer students, having had successful experiences with workloads in excess of those recommended. Unfortunately, as one progresses in the major, the workload per unit, competition, and number of term papers and research reports usually increases. Not making a downward adjustment in the number of units or in the number of hours worked will, undoubtedly, lead to lower grades and excessive amounts of stress.