Definition of Upper/Lower Division and Course Numbering System
Definition of Upper- and Lower-Division Coursework, Course Numbering
CityU undergraduate programs have specific upper- and lower division requirements. Lower-division courses are numbered 100-299, and are general in nature. Upper-division courses are numbered 300-499. The subject matter in upper-division courses is more specific, and builds upon knowledge gained from lower division study. At the associate degree level, CityU will accept up to 65 credits in transfer. At the bachelor’s degree level, CityU will accept up to 135 credits in transfer. (Please refer to the policies on transferring credit into graduate and undergraduate programs for more information on this subject.)
The total number of undergraduate credits a student has earned at CityU, including transfer credits, determines the student’s class year status. This status is independent of the level of coursework completed. For example, a student may complete several upper division courses in a degree program, but be less than half-way through the chosen program. Undergraduate class-year status is determined solely by total credits earned in the program, not by the level of courses taken.
Class-year status at CityU is as follows:
• 45 or fewer quarter credits earned = first-year status (freshman)
• 46-90 quarter credits earned = second-year status (sophomore)
• 91-135 quarter credits earned = third-year status (junior)
• 136 or more quarter credits earned = fourth-year status (senior)