Graduate study requires considerably more library and preparation time than does undergraduate study. Students are encouraged to enroll in a course load which is reasonable for them. Many students take 1 or 2 courses per semester. This prolongs the time for completion of the degree. Several factors should be considered when considering whether to be a full or part time student.
Some courses require clinical practicums.
Depending on the requirements of the class, the actual class time time per week may be greater or less but over the semester should sum to 30 hours and clinical time would sum to 45 hours. Courses meeting on a compressed schedule, such as the 8 week summer session, meet the same total number of class and clinical hours as if they were being offered in the 15 week long semester. Please note that clinical practicum hours for some courses may be held only in the daytime during the week given the nature of the agency and experience. Students who live out of town may find it necessary to stay over several days per week in El Paso to meet the course requirements. Course offerings and schedules for classes vary by semester.