Accelerate Your Success With Express Terms
Palm Beach State College is scaling up its Express A and Express B course offerings.
In Fall 2026, the College will begin offering more express courses. You’ll benefit
from more flexibility and less stress while staying on track for graduation.
What's changing?
Your schedule will change a bit. But the academic rigor, low tuition rates, engagement with faculty and other features of campus life you’re accustomed to at Palm Beach State College will stay the same. You may have already taken advantage of PBSC’s existing Express A and Express B courses. Additional express course offerings will allow for even more flexibility in your educational journey.
Why is PBSC expanding express courses?
Higher Completion Rates
The completion rate for students taking PBSC’s Express A and Express B courses is
9% higher than for students taking semester-long courses.
Increased Focus
You'll be able to concentrate on fewer subjects at a time. Take two or three courses
every 7.5 weeks instead of five courses at once over 15 weeks.
Improved Student Success
Research from peer institutions nationwide that have adopted shorter terms shows improved
student engagement and program completion.
Better Life Balance
You'll be able to choose from more start dates throughout the year and manage your
studies alongside other commitments.
How will it work?
- Most courses that aren’t already part of PBSC’s existing Express A and Express B formats will transition to express formats.
- Select courses requiring longer instructional periods will remain as semester-long courses of 15 weeks.
- Fall and Spring semesters will include:
- Express A courses (7.5 weeks)
- Express B courses (7.5 weeks)
- Full-term courses (15-weeks)
What will my schedule look like?
Full-time students will maintain their current level of coursework but may have less stress and avoid the 10-week burnout period many students experience in a 15-week course. Part-time students may be able to become full-time students while concentrating on only two to three courses at once.
Example Schedule: Full-time Student
If you normally take five classes during each traditional 15-week semester, you will
be able to take two or three classes each during the Express A and Express B terms.
Work with an academic advisor to determine the best plan for you.
Traditional 15-week Format (15 total credits)
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Class 4
- Class 5
Express Format (15 total credits)
Express A Term
- Class 1
- Class 2
Express B Term
- Class 3
- Class 4
- Class 5
Example Schedule: Part-time Student
If you have time to take two 15-week classes during a traditional semester, you can
take just one class at a time in the express format. Work with an academic advisor
to determine the best plan for you.
Traditional 15-week Format (6 total credits)
- Class 1
- Class 2
Express Format (6 total credits)
Express A Term
- Class 1
Express B Term
- Class 2
Frequently Asked Questions
Overview
Full-time Students
Part-time Students
Graduation & Transfers
Coursework
Scheduling
Just like in 15-week courses, professors work in response to the needs of individual students and provide options to ensure students can succeed, including referring individual students to specialized support services.
No, 12-week courses will continue to be offered for a duration of 12 weeks.
Costs & Financial Aid
Tips for Success
We understand that the express format may be different from your previous experience. Here are strategies to help you thrive.
Preparation and Study Habits
- Attendance matters! With the accelerated pace, missing even one class can set you behind. Make every effort to attend all sessions and participate actively to stay on track.
- Check your college email and Canvas regularly.
- Purchase any required supplies and materials by the first day of class.
- Log into Canvas one to two days before your first scheduled class meeting to review the course syllabus and expectations.
- Pay attention to assignments that may have specific due dates throughout the week, such as discussion boards.
- Plan your daily and weekly tasks and allocate enough time for studying, reviewing and completing assignments.
- Connect with your instructor if there's content you don't understand.
- Seek support from peers or tutoring services as needed.
Communication and Relationships
- Ask questions early about major assignments. Don't wait until the last minute.
- Work to build relationships with students and the instructor early in the class.
- Take care of your well-being, and take breaks when you need them.
Scheduling
- Follow the academic plan outlined for your program in Navigate 360.
- Do not exceed the recommended number of courses/credits.
