The University of Dayton operates under an early semester, split third-term calendar. The academic year begins with the fifteen-week fall term plus one week of exams, which ends before Christmas. The spring term, also fifteen weeks plus one week of exams, begins in January and ends early in May. The third, or summer term, is split into two complete sessions of six weeks each.

Students may enroll for the traditional fall and spring semesters and have a three-month summer vacation; or they may add half terms or full terms in the summer to enrich their programs or speed the completion of their degree requirements. The University issues diplomas at the end of fall, spring and second summer terms and holds commencement ceremonies in May and December.

The University of Dayton publishes its academic calendar on an annual basis so our community can plan ahead. However, please note that the dates are subject to change.

Definition of a Semester Credit Hour

A semester credit hour means a minimum of 750 minutes of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class work each week over a period of 15 weeks plus one week of exams.  Direct faculty instruction may take place in a variety of modes, including classroom instruction and modes of instruction outside of regularly scheduled hours. Examples of direct faculty instruction are defined below, but are not limited to only these modes..  

Modes of Instruction

• Advising for groups or individual projects
• Associated field trips - concerts, museum visits, etc.
• Clinical laboratory instruction
• Cooperative work experience
• Faculty-recorded lectures or presentations 
• Field experience
• Laboratory instruction
• Library sessions outside of the regular class time
• Observation experience
• Practicum experience
• Reading days
• Required community service
• Required experiential learning
• Required outside speakers
• Required video/film viewing
• Review sessions
• Seminars
• Use of discussion board

Reading Days

A Reading Day is a designated instructional day within the academic calendar during which no formal classes, exams, or mandatory academic activities are scheduled. The purpose of this day is to provide students with an opportunity for focused study, reflection, and preparation for upcoming assessments, projects, or coursework. Attendance in any scheduled class or instructional setting is not required.

 The intent of the Reading Day is to foster academic success by offering students a flexible, unstructured day to engage in independent study or collaboration, or otherwise prepare for the remainder of the term. It is an intentional part of the academic calendar, ensuring a balance between instructional delivery and personal academic preparation.