A credit hour is defined as the amount of work represented in intended student learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates in traditional terms, not less than one hour of online and/or on-ground classroom and/or direct faculty instruction, and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student equivalent work over a different amount of time; or at least an equivalent amount of work as required for other academic activities including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Guidelines
The University of Arizona Global Campus defines a credit hour as a reasonable approximation of the student learning outcome equivalency of, at a minimum, a Carnegie Unit.
Course developers and subject matter experts are to ensure that the quantity of student learning required to earn a semester credit is reasonably equivalent to 45 hours of coursework over the duration of the course through activities that address and demonstrate student competency in the defined learning outcomes; and draw upon recommended instructional practices.
Student learning outcome equivalencies are to be based on documented qualitative and quantitative expectations for the time required of students to complete assigned learning activities, taking into account expectations based on degree level, discipline, and weight in students' final course grade, time required of students to read and understand content developed by course faculty, and time required of course faculty and students to participate in online and/or on-ground conference and engaged activities. The time required of students to complete assigned learning activities shall not include time required to read a course syllabus.
Student learning outcome equivalencies reflect differences in delivery methods, variety of instruction and interaction, degree of supervision, measurements of student work, academic disciplines, academic calendars, and degree levels.