Having access to online summer courses is often presented as a major advantage for college students. In theory, it offers flexibility, convenience, and the opportunity to get ahead academically. But in practice, how valuable is this resource when the number of available classes is so limited that it fails to meet students’ needs?
As a psychology major, I expected to have a wider range of course options available to me, especially during the summer. Psychology is one of the most common majors, not a niche or highly specialized field. However, my experience has been the opposite. When I look at the summer course catalog, I often find very few options that actually apply to my degree requirements. What should feel like an opportunity instead feels restrictive, almost as if my major is more limited than it truly is.
This lack of availability doesn’t just create inconvenience; it discourages students from taking summer courses in the first place. When students can’t find classes that fit their academic plans, they’re far less likely to enroll. The issue isn’t a lack of motivation; it’s a lack of opportunity. If more courses were offered, I strongly believe more students would take advantage of summer learning. Instead, many of us are left searching for alternatives outside of our own institution.
Personally, I’ve had to turn to external platforms like TransferCredits.org to find the classes I need. While I’m grateful that these options exist, they raise an important question: why am I paying another institution or service for courses that could, and arguably should, be offered by the school I already attend? If Lasell had provided the necessary classes, I would have chosen to stay within the institution without hesitation. Not only would that benefit me academically, but it would also keep my financial investment within the school community.
Some might argue that summer courses are optional, and technically, that’s true. At Lasell, no one is required to take classes during the summer. However, that perspective overlooks how valuable these courses can be for many students. For those trying to graduate early, catch up, or create a more manageable schedule during the academic year, especially with Lasell’s internship requirement, summer classes can make a significant difference.
In my case, summer courses are especially important because I am also minoring in radio and broadcasting. Those classes are offered infrequently, which makes planning my schedule even more challenging. By taking psychology courses over the summer, I can focus on completing my major requirements now, allowing me to prioritize my minor during the regular semesters.
There’s also a broader impact to consider. When students are forced to seek courses elsewhere, it can weaken their connection to their college. Summer classes could be an opportunity to keep students engaged, involved, and invested in their own campus community year-round. Instead, limited offerings push students away, both academically and financially.
I truly appreciate that online summer courses are offered at all. They have the potential to be an incredibly valuable resource. But without a wider selection of classes, especially in commonly pursued majors, the system falls short of serving the students it’s meant to support.
If colleges want to encourage academic progress, increase student satisfaction, and retain both engagement and tuition dollars, expanding summer course offerings is a necessary step. Students are willing and ready to put in the work; we just need the opportunity to do so.
–May 15, 2026–
