Offering classes that follow consistent meeting times across the university reduces scheduling conflicts, promotes predictability and planning, and supports improved academic planning. A consistent time grid also allows for optimal classroom and space utilization which benefits academic departments and faculty. Adherence to the time grid for class scheduling is expected, with certain exceptions explained below.
The following time grid will be in effect Fall 2025. You can view the current time grid on the academic resources website.
Prime Daytime Grid
These class time blocks support most classes that meet 2 times a week or 3 times a week. Generally, classes should not begin before the 9am time block. *We only recommend using the 7:45-8:50am time block if you teach for cohorts who are typically available for early morning classes.
Meeting Patterns
- Prime daytime class meeting blocks are offered in Monday/Wednesday (MW), Tuesday/Thursday (TR) and Monday/Wednesday/Friday (MWF) patterns.
- Prime daytime blocks are designed for 4-credit courses. Class length can be modified for different credit loads according to the academic credit hour policy, but should adhere to the meeting block start time.
- Many hybrid courses use only one day of a two-day meeting pattern, consider the best options for hybrid course delivery.
- Classes should not be scheduled during the midday Community Time.
Community Time
This dedicated community time is reserved to foster engagement, support student group activities, facilitate student-faculty interactions, and encourage organic connections across campus. Classes should not be scheduled during this block, allowing members of the community to participate in these valuable opportunities.
Evening Grid
Evening classes are often used by programs enrolling specifically-targeted cohorts designed for students who are only available in the evenings. Offering courses in the evening should be thoughtfully planned, with data supporting an evening schedule.
Exceptions to Time Grid Adherence
We understand that certain classes may not easily fit the common meeting patterns. Some classes require more than a standard time block such as studio, lab, activity, or other experiential learning classes. When you need to schedule a longer class meeting time, please follow a start time established by the time grid.
Certain cohort-based programs, often seen in graduate programs, may have non-standard meeting times based on the cohort model and needs. If your students are not taking any classes outside of your program, and you are using departmentally controlled classrooms, adherence to the time grid is not required. If you are using general pool classrooms, you will be assigned rooms after classes that are scheduled in-grid.
If you have questions about scheduling your classes, contact schedule@pdx.edu.