Question: Does research show that summer study in college is good for you — and, if so, in which ways is such study beneficial?

Answer: Findings from education research indicate that taking summer classes can, indeed, be helpful for students — although obviously not for all students and in every circumstance.

Among the reasons are that students can accelerate their academic progress by earning credits faster and finishing required courses earlier. Additionally, they can avoid schedule conflicts that often occur during regular semesters. Stated another way, students can increase their chance of graduating on time. In fact, according to assorted national data, students who take summer courses are up to 16% more likely to graduate on time compared with those who never take them. Further, students are able to explore new subjects.

That’s especially good news for students at Stetson, who this summer also can benefit from the convenience of furthering their studies either online or on campus, while taking advantage of reduced summer rates on tuition for their coursework, cites Dale Peterson, director of Academic Administration and the Summer Study at Stetson program.

“Attending a summer academic program at Stetson offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a dynamic learning environment while gaining valuable skills and experiences,” Peterson commented.

“Summer programs also allow students to stay connected with the university community, fostering personal and professional growth that extends beyond the classroom.”

This summer, there are four Undergraduate sessions, beginning May 18 and including a special six-week Session 4. A Graduate summer session starts May 11.

• Session 1 (four weeks): May 18-June 16
• Session 2 (seven weeks): May 18-July 9
• Session 3 (four weeks): June 22-July 21
• Session 4 (Special Summer Session, six weeks): June 22-August 4
• Graduate Summer Session: May 11-August 12
• Summer internships start May 18

Incoming Students, Too

All incoming Fall 2026 first-year and transfer students are incentivized to begin their college journey early and get ahead before they even arrive on campus. They are eligible for a $1,000 Summer Scholarship, covering more than 40% of the cost of a summer course, which can be taken online from anywhere. “As our current students and Student Success staff will tell you,” said Peterson, “taking a summer class helps prepare you for fall classes and gives you a head start on completing your Stetson degree.”