Register for Summer Session

Imane Ngassa, a sophomore operations management major, enrolled in Summer Session courses at the University of Delaware last summer, and she plans to enroll again this year.

"Sometimes it's hard to be motivated to learn at the beginning of fall and spring semesters," she said. "Continuous learning is how I stay motivated because it helps me keep the momentum going."

Ngassa graduated early from high school, and by taking classes in the summer and winter, she plans to do the same at UD.

Summer Session at UD is designed for students who need to retake a course, are planning to get ahead in their major or are interested in exploring courses that are outside of their major. While Summer Session is shorter than the fall and spring semesters, the course work is the same - just offered at an accelerated pace, which creates opportunities for students to earn credits quickly.

Registration for summer 2026 is open. Classes start on June 8 and July 13.

Ngassa appreciates that summer is split into two sessions, making it possible to decide which session works best with her summer plans to spend time with her dad, enjoy Longwood Gardens and go horseback riding.

After completing her first Summer Session at UD, Ngassa said the benefits were too good to keep to herself, so she's always encouraging her friends to enroll in Summer and Winter Sessions.

"The lighter course load in the fall and spring semester is probably my favorite benefit," she said. "I also love that there are a lot of classes to choose from and the fact that the overall pace is faster."

Ethan Shacknow, a junior psychology major, likes going back home to New Jersey in the summer. He said the asynchronous online modality works perfectly for him because he has a full-time summer job.

Students also have the option to take courses that are offered in-person or are hybrid.

Similar to Ngassa, Shacknow also appreciates the benefit of a lighter course load, especially as he looks ahead to his senior year.

"I prefer to take rigorous psychology classes in the summer," he said. "By taking those courses in the summer, my senior year will be less stressful. I'm looking forward to taking some fun electives."

Studying abroad is also a great option for students in the summer.

For example, the Passport to Art program, hosted at the University of Birmingham's History and Cultures School, is an immersive three-week program that explores art, architecture, literature, music, design and popular culture that have shaped Britain's heritage. The three-credit course is a UD faculty-led program that runs from July 20 to Aug. 7.

Students can explore UD's course catalog to find courses that fulfill their major and minor requirements, as well as unique courses that pique their interest - some may also fulfill breadth requirements. Faculty and advisors are encouraged to discuss Summer Session's course offerings with students. Learn more by visiting udel.edu/winter-summer.